A recent analysis by IPK also ranks Germany third out of 27 countries for climate protection and sustainability
Building on its drive to promote sustainable tourism, the German National Tourist Board has become the latest tourist board to join the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
In a press statement, GNTB says that the leadership of this globally active organisation has confirmed the admission of the German National Tourist Board to promote its sustainable tourism benchmarks and actively strengthen ecotourism in the nation.
Sustainability is a key focus of Germany’s tourism industry, for which the board has also launched an array of initiatives. The country has secured its place as a sustainable destination on the global stage, climbing to fourth place in the SDG Index, a measure of progress towards the UN climate goals.
A recent analysis by IPK also ranks Germany third out of 27 countries for climate protection and sustainability. With ‘Simply Feel Good in Germany,’ tourism providers in Germany are looking to leverage these offerings and develop new sustainable vacation experiences ‘with creativity and passion.’
‘‘As a travel destination, Germany has already built a strong, sustainable image in recent years. According to the GNTB Travel Industry Expert Panel for Q4 2023, 79 pc of CEOs and key accounts in the international travel industry perceive Germany as a sustainable destination, with 62 percent consciously marketing travel offers to Germany with this in mind,’’ says Petra Hedorfer, Chairwoman of the GNTB Executive Board.
The GSTC is a non-profit organisation founded in 2008 by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the NGO Rainforest Alliance and the United Nations Foundation to define the basic standards for sustainable development in the travel and tourism industry at a global level. GSTC has 438 members worldwide, including 63 Destination Management Organisations and National Tourist Boards, as well as other companies in the tourism industry.
“The GNTB’s affiliation with the GSTC marks a pivotal moment, offering new perspectives and opportunities. This partnership facilitates the exchange of experiences with fellow GSTC members, allowing us to showcase Germany’s sustainable tourism products on the global stage. Concurrently, we commit to sharing insights and knowledge gained from participating in GSTC programs with our German tourism partners to fortify our position as a leading sustainable tourism destination,’’ adds Hedorfer.
Additionally, Germany’s maps link to further sustainable travel options, including thematic websites of the 16 federal states and accommodations displaying at least one of the 17 recognised sustainability certifications.
