Tourism is seen as both a contributor to climate change and a 'sufferer' of climate change. Air travel especially is seen as a major contributor; however, other modes of travel or unsustainable practices at the holiday destination also contribute to climate change. As a sufferer, tourism destinations may have to adapt to changing climates as these may influence tourism activities at the destination or the destination choice itself.

Climate change, however, is a controversial issue and widely discussed in the media and politics. Climate change proponents state that human kind contributes to global warming through increased carbon dioxide emissions, whereas critics comment on natural variation of climates and other reasons of this occurrence. Who is right? The discussion is still open and maybe only the future will tell.

In my research I am focussing on travellers (someone who travelled in the past, is travelling currently, or is planning to travel) and their perceptions of climate change. Regardless, of their general stance on this issue, all perspectives are welcome. The aim of my research is to get a deeper understanding of how climate change discussions influence on travellers’ travel motivation, decisions, or experiences.

• As someone who is interested in travelling, do you think about climate change issues when planning your trip?
   
• Maybe you have already experienced some effect of climate change in certain destinations or at home?
   
• What can we as travellers do to minimise our impact or is this the role of the industry and governments?
   
• Are you engaging in discussions about such issues with others?

I would like to hear about it. Join the discussions on this website, have your say and answer my questionnaire, or send me an email at u.kachel@griffith.edu.au.