World Tourism Day 2025: A Call for Sustainable Transformation in Travel
World Tourism Day 2025, celebrated on September 27, underscores the theme of “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”. This comes at a time when the global tourism industry is grappling with the need to implement environmentally-friendly practices, all while maintaining economic growth.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is spearheading the main celebration in Melaka, Malaysia. This event brings together a diverse group of global tourism leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to deliberate on sustainable tourism strategies.
The occasion underscores the potential of tourism to drive positive social, environmental, and economic change globally. In the first quarter of 2025, international tourist arrivals saw a 5% increase compared to the previous year. This translates to over 300 million tourists traveling internationally between January and March—approximately 14 million more than the same period in 2024.
This growth signifies a 3% increase above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. However, the tourism industry, which generates millions of jobs worldwide, is under increasing scrutiny over its environmental footprint.
This year’s theme challenges travelers to adopt conscious travel habits. These range from choosing eco-friendly accommodations to reducing waste and supporting local communities.
“Tourism is a cornerstone of the global economy, but as it grows, it’s essential to ensure benefits are shared equitably while respecting both environment and cultural heritage,” the UNWTO stated.
The organization encourages travelers to support businesses that prioritize sustainability and engage in activities that safeguard destinations. The global campaign invites participants to share their sustainable travel experiences using the hashtag #WorldTourismDay. This promotes responsible tourism practices that bolster local economies while minimizing environmental impact.
The initiative aims to transform tourism into a more inclusive, eco-friendly sector that contributes to a sustainable future.
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Source: Travel and Tour World