The United Nations tourism agency (UN Tourism) has published a strategic road map for sustainable tourism ahead of the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism in 2027, underscoring global momentum behind environmentally responsible travel.
The initiative aims to support member states and industry stakeholders in embedding sustainable travel practices, climate action and resilience into long-term sector planning.
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What the sustainable tourism roadmap involves
UN Tourism’s road map sets out a timeline and priority actions for governments, regional bodies and businesses to prepare for 2027, which was designated as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism by the UN General Assembly.
The strategy reflects a shift from high-level dialogue to structured implementation planning across regions.
In early February, the plan was presented during the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability meeting in Madrid, where delegates agreed to support the transition towards more responsible travel systems.
Key elements include:
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By GlobalData- a focus on linking tourism with climate mitigation and adaptation goals,
- measures to make destinations more resilient to environmental pressures,
- an emphasis on inclusive development that benefits communities and workers.
UN Tourism emphasises that sustainable tourism should contribute to the post-2030 global development agenda, integrating tourism into international efforts on economic recovery, job creation and environmental protection.
Implications for hotels and the travel sector
The road map’s objectives have direct implications for hotel operators, hospitality groups and travel businesses.
As travellers increasingly demand eco-friendly accommodation and green hospitality services, operators may need to adapt business models to remain competitive in markets prioritising sustainability.
Industry initiatives such as independent eco-hotel certifications and international standards for resource efficiency are likely to gain greater traction.
Hotels are pivotal in reducing the tourism sector’s carbon footprint, given their energy and water usage, waste generation and supply-chain impacts. Aligning operational practices with sustainable travel criteria could influence investment decisions and partnerships in the years leading up to 2027.
Global context and industry trends
The launch of the road map comes amid broader global efforts to transform tourism into a driver of sustainable economic growth rather than a source of environmental strain.
Research indicates that sustainable travel is increasingly embedded in consumer preferences and policy frameworks, with industry studies projecting growth in demand for responsible travel products.
Government bodies, regional platforms and private sector organisations are also advancing related strategies, underscoring the importance of climate resilience, digital transition and inclusive growth.
For the hotel sector, this translates into stronger expectations around energy efficiency, local community engagement and transparent sustainability reporting.
UN Tourism’s sustainable travel roadmap provides an early blueprint for market participants as the sector moves towards greater accountability and resilience ahead of 2027.
