The UN Tourism’s Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS) convened for a two-day session to address pressing global challenges and outline a path toward more sustainable and resilient tourism development.
The 19th meeting saw participation from 140 policymakers and experts from Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, and the Americas, aiming to balance tourism growth with inclusiveness and sustainability. Throughout the sessions, the committee tackled the increasing sustainability challenges in a sector expected to handle 35 billion domestic and international visitors by 2030.
Special thematic discussions focused on aligning tourism’s growth with long-term environmental and economic goals. Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of UN Tourism, highlighted the significance of the meeting, saying: “This two-day session marks a pivotal moment in shaping a global, science-based agenda for tourism’s sustainability and resilience.”
Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez, expressed pride in hosting the event, emphasizing the country's commitment to sustainable tourism practices. “We aim to lead discussions that will shape a future where tourism is managed sustainably, inclusively, and innovatively,” Rodríguez remarked.
Key discussions explored several critical themes:
- Balancing Growth and Well-being: Experts emphasized the need for tourism to promote economic growth and cultural enrichment, while safeguarding local communities and environments.
- Climate Action and Circularity: The committee welcomed tourism’s inclusion in the COP29 climate agenda, discussing the sector's role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
- Nature-Positive Tourism: A commitment to ecosystem restoration and protection was reaffirmed, with participants highlighting the potential of nature-positive tourism, particularly for emerging destinations.
- Green Certifications: Challenges surrounding certification systems and the need for consistent standards were explored, with emphasis on the European Commission’s directives.
Several positive case studies were showcased, including Costa Rica's Social Progress Index (SPI), which ensures tourism aligns with nature-positive principles. Fiji’s adaptation of its Climate Change Act for tourism, and Iceland’s innovative approach to balancing growth with environmental stewardship, were also highlighted.
The committee urged countries to take these critical discussions forward to the global stage at the upcoming COP16 and COP29 conferences. These events will be key in integrating tourism into broader environmental and climate strategies, reinforcing the sector’s role in shaping a sustainable, inclusive future.
