Flying hurts the planet but it’s vital for island tourism. Is there a greener way?

The future for Pacific island nations depends on climate action, and how to achieve tourism growth sustainably needs to be part of that conversation. Photograph: Holger Leue/Getty Images

One of the biggest challenges in weaning off fossil fuels – and one that is often forgotten – is aviation. But for Pacific Island countries that poses a major conundrum. Right now, it would be effectively impossible to get to the Pacific islands without burning kerosene.

Aviation connects families across the region and allows for essential travel, including for health and education. Flights also form the backbone of the growing and vital tourism industry. Tourism is now the biggest economic sector in the Pacific and it can bring many development benefits.