Global travel leaders, WTTC, UN Tourism & Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, join forces to combat biodiversity loss with landmark report.

The prominent figures in the global Travel & Tourism arena have unveiled a groundbreaking collaborative report outlining their concerted efforts to address and reverse biodiversity decline.

Debuting on Earth Day 2024, “Advancing Nature-Friendly Travel & Tourism” marks the culmination of the esteemed ‘Nature Positive Tourism Partnership’, comprising the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance).

Crafted in partnership with specialized consultancy ANIMONDIAL, the report signifies the industry’s commitment to bolster the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), as per the UN’s Biodiversity Plan.

Featuring over 30 illustrative case studies from across the globe, involving diverse stakeholders such as large corporations, small enterprises, governmental bodies, civil society organizations, and cross-sectoral collaborations, the report serves as a testament to progressive actions.

By furnishing actionable recommendations and insights, this document not only underscores the intrinsic correlation between biodiversity and the resilience of tourism but also empowers enterprises to assume the role of guardians of the environment.

Historic partnership for nature

Ms. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This historic partnership with Travel & Tourism heavyweights is a significant step in our collective journey towards a more sustainable and responsible sector. This report is not merely a publication but a movement towards integrating environmental stewardship into the core of travel experiences. As we celebrate Earth Day, let us heed the call to nurture and protect our destinations. Our sector’s reliance on nature, coupled with our expertise in creating inspiring and memorable experiences, means we are ideally placed to be guardians of nature.”

Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, said: “For years, UN Tourism has been at the forefront of integrating tourism into the broader UN biodiversity agenda, including supporting the work of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This pivotal new collaboration among key global players sets a robust framework for sustainable practices that not only drive significant impact but also exemplify the power of united efforts in conserving biodiversity. This report is a testimony to what we can achieve together for nature’s preservation, inspiring a global movement towards more sustainable and resilient tourism.”

Mr. Glenn Mandziuk, Sustainable Hotel Alliance CEO, said: “This report is a milestone for Travel and Tourism, representing our commitment as an industry to protect and conserve nature. The Alliance is proud to contribute to and collaborate on this insightful and action-orientated report which will bring tangible change to destinations around the world, supporting biodiversity.  Nature underpins our society, economies and indeed our very existence. The hospitality industry is today a leader amongst industries in its Nature Positive approach and this report signifies how much our industry understands the true value of nature.”  

Guided by a coalition of experts, the Nature Positive Tourism approach stands as a beacon for tangible transformation, recognizing the sector’s pivotal role in biodiversity preservation. It endeavors to equip the industry with the necessary tools and knowledge to safeguard the destinations on which it thrives.

Rooted in consultations with stakeholders from business, government, academia, and civil society, including esteemed bodies like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), the Partnership’s commitment to achieving “net positive for nature” remains unwavering.

Building upon the foundation laid by the 2022 WTTC report “Nature Positive Travel & Tourism,” this comprehensive report offers practical frameworks and real-life examples aimed at encouraging both providers and consumers of travel to embark on journeys that contribute to the preservation of our planet’s natural wonders.

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