Helsinki outperformed other cities in three of the four evaluated categories (Photo: Julia Kivelä, VisitFinland)
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, has secured the top spot in the 2024 Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index, officially becoming the world’s most sustainable travel destination.
According to a press statement by Helsinki Partners, the official city marketing firm, the Finnish capital was recognised in the latest GDS Index that assesses the sustainability of over 100 global cities based on more than 70 indicators.
It says that this year Helsinki outperformed other cities in three of the four evaluated categories, destination management, supplier performance and environmental performance while placing second in social progress.
The board says that Helsinki’s leadership in these areas reflects its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, with plans to reduce emissions through energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable transport initiatives.
In 2023, Helsinki had ranked fourth in the same index, marking a significant leap in its sustainability efforts.
Juhana Vartiainen
“Being named the world’s most sustainable travel destination is proof of the long-term work that has been done in Helsinki. We are developing and growing tourism sustainably together with tourism operators and local residents. The first place we have now achieved indicates that we are on the right path,” says Juhana Vartiainen, Mayor of Helsinki.
Nina Vesterinen
“International studies show that travellers are increasingly looking for more sustainable services and destinations. There will no doubt be increasing demand for the world’s most sustainable tourist destination in the future,” says Nina Vesterinen, Tourism Director at the City of Helsinki.
Helsinki’s Climate Action Plan for Tourism and Events aims to further enhance the city’s sustainable tourism initiatives, solidifying its reputation as both a sustainable and smart destination.
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