28 September 2015: The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) welcomed the UN General Assembly’s (UNGA) adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular the tourism targets in Goals 8, 12 and 14, which address inclusive and sustainable economic growth, sustainable consumption and production (SCP), and the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources, respectively.

The UNWTO highlighted the potential of tourism to contribute to all of the Goals, and released a brochure summarizing the possibilities in relation to each SDG. For example, Goal 14 on oceans stipulates a target of increasing the economic benefits to small island developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. In relation to Goal 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies, UNWTO notes that tourism, though not directly referenced in the goal-set, promotes cultural tolerance and understanding, strengthens cultural identities and spurs entrepreneurial activities, thereby helping to prevent violence and conflict. On Goal 17 (means of implementation), tourism, due to its cross-sectoral nature, is said to potentially strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) and engage multiple stakeholders in the interests of sustainable development.

The brochure draws attention to the Sustainable Tourism Programme (STP) being implemented under the Ten-Year Framework of Programmes (10YFP) on SCP, administered by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

While welcoming the firm positioning of sustainable tourism in the 2030 agenda, the UNWTO notes that achieving the agenda requires a clear implementation framework, adequate financing and investment in technology, infrastructure and human resources. [UNWTO Press Release] [UNWTO Brochure] [Sustainable Tourism Programme in 10YFP]