Leading global travel and tourism players have published a landmark joint report setting out their joint plan to help halt and reverse biodiversity loss.
Launched on Earth Day 2024, "Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action" is the brainchild of the high-level 'Nature Positive Tourism Partnership', formed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the World Organization of Tourism (United Nations Tourism) and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance).
Developed in collaboration with the specialized consulting firm ANIMONDIAL, the report is the sector's commitment to support the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) Kunming-Montreal, the UN Biodiversity Plan.
It features more than 30 case studies of inspiring and progressive actions from around the world involving large and small businesses, national and local government agencies, civil society groups and cross-sector associations.
By offering practical guidance and ideas, this report not only highlights the intrinsic link between biodiversity and tourism resilience, but also empowers businesses to become stewards of nature.
Historic alliance for nature
Ms Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the WTTC, said: "This historic partnership with travel and tourism heavyweights is a significant step in our collective journey towards a more sustainable and responsible sector. This report is not simply a publication but a movement towards integrating environmental stewardship at the core of travel experiences. As we celebrate Earth Day, let us heed the call to nurture and protect our The dependence of our sector on nature, along with our destinations. experience in creating inspiring and memorable experiences, means we are ideally placed to be guardians of nature."
Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, United Nations Secretary-General for Tourism, said: "For years, United Nations Tourism has been at the forefront of integrating tourism into the broader United Nations biodiversity agenda, including support the work of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This new critical collaboration between key global actors establishes a strong framework for sustainable practices that not only generate significant impact but also exemplify the power of united efforts. to conserve biodiversity. This report is a testament to what we can achieve together for the preservation of nature, inspiring a global movement towards more sustainable and resilient tourism.
Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Sustainable Hotel Alliance, said: "This report is a milestone for travel and tourism as it represents our commitment as an industry to protect and conserve nature. The Alliance is proud to contribute and collaborate on this initiative. insightful and action-oriented report that will bring tangible changes to destinations around the world, supporting biodiversity, sustaining our society, our economies and indeed our very existence The hospitality industry is today a leader among industries in its Nature approach. Positive and this report demonstrates how much our industry understands the true value of nature."
Expert-Led Coalition
Recognizing that the sector has a fundamental role to play in the protection and conservation of biodiversity, the Nature Positive Tourism approach is designed to be a touchstone for viable change. It focuses on providing the sector with the tools and knowledge necessary to nurture and protect the destinations on which it depends.
The Association's commitment to working towards a "net positive for nature" outcome is based on extensive consultation with experts from business, government, academia and civil society, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature ( IUCN) and the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA). ).
The report, which follows WTTC's 2022 Nature Positive Travel & Tourism report, includes practical frameworks and real-world examples that encourage both travel providers and travelers to embark on journeys that contribute to the conservation of our natural treasures.v
Source: UN Tourism.