Local accommodation energy efficiency in Lisbon: a red flag for tourism, indoor thermal comfort, and energy renovation targets

Abstract

Climate change affects all sectors of society, and tourism is no exception. Adaptation in this sector is challenging because of its vulnerability to rapid change and uncertainties of an environmental and political nature. Local accommodation (LA) (short-term rentals) plays a key role in the Portuguese economy and is, thus, potentially a key driver of increased energy efficiency and promoting buildings decarbonization, thereby contributing both to climate change adaptation and mitigation of this sector. However, there is limited research on energy efficiency and climate change resilience in the LA sector. To address this research gap, this study focuses on four civil parishes situated in the historic center of Lisbon, Portugal. Using a multidimensional approach and cross-sectoral datasets, we assessed the energy efficiency of LA in Lisbon and explored the cost of renovation measures. This analysis exposed poor energy performance in LA buildings and a low frequency of buildings with thermal insulation or double-glazed windows. Despite this, energy performance in the LA sector was comparatively better than in the residential sector. Additionally, LA s are equipped with more heating and cooling systems than the broader residential sector. This knowledge is relevant for researchers and policymakers, contributing to developing sustainable tourism approaches and reaching the objectives outlined in energy renovation policies.

Keywords

• local accommodation
• tourism
• energy efficiency
• thermal comfort
• portugal