JoAnna Haugen
Founder
Rooted
Aiming to Spark a Ripple Effect of Action, Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency
Despite the fact that COVID-19 essentially grounded international travel for the better part of 2020, the tourism industry’s collective decision to address the climate emergency has gained exponential momentum over the last few months. ... View More
A Sustainable Future for Tourism Requires Kicking the Bucket (List)
Bucket lists are powerful sales and marketing tools — and applying the concept to “must-see” destinations or activities is a natural fit. But that model is changing; and with the industry’s shift in focus from quantity to quality, it’s time... View More
Why a Solutions-Focused Mindset Is Essential for Creating a Sustainable Future
Rather than dwelling on problems, a solutions-centered focus — within individuals, organizations, governments, etc — naturally leads to breaking negative feedback loops, feelings of hopelessness, and cycles of redundant and unproductive work. ... View More
COVID, Customers Lead MGM to Open First Smoke-Free Las Vegas Strip Resort
The implications of Park MGM’s move to go smoke-free within the COVID-19 pandemic are important to consider. Perhaps COVID is the nudge the industry needs to prioritize people’s health and eliminate smoking on casino floors. ... View More
New Standards, Certification Program Aim to Embed DEI Into Tourism
Travel Unity — a nonprofit focused on increasing diversity in travel through individual and community empowerment — has established a set of standards for DEI in travel and tourism, as well as the industry’s first holistic DEI certification pro... View More
Black Travel Alliance Holding Industry Accountable on Its DEI Commitments
Recognizing the urgent need to hold travel brands and destinations accountable for their lack of diversity in travel marketing and storytelling, the Black Travel Alliance was formed practically overnight to support Black content creators and increase... View More
SDGs Key to (Re)Building Tourism with an Eye Toward the Future
The travel industry has done a poor job integrating the SDGs into business operations and reporting on them. But the Goals offer guidance on how to develop destinations that can appropriately manage tourism’s footprint and minimize environmental im... View More
What Role Will Shaming Play in a Post-Pandemic World?
Myriad opportunities exist to create a new “business as usual,” post-pandemic: People won’t need to be shamed into being more thoughtful or responsible if sustainable practices become the default in society and in business. ... View More
Community Support, Collaboration Signal Resilient Future for Co-operatives
The coronavirus pandemic has made clear the importance of each person and business acting individually to work toward a shared goal that benefits society as a whole. Co-ops are inherently set up for resilience, as they act with the best interest of t... View More
Teach a Man to Fish: Why Some Travel Companies Support Microfinance
While sustainable tourism offerings are increasing along with traveler interest in giving back to the communities that they visit, most operators support local organizations through donations. But a growing wave are opting for microfinance to create ... View More
