Report: Nature Acknowledged in National Tourism Policies, But Detailed Plans Absent

Photo source: UN Tourism

While 95 percent of national tourism policies acknowledge nature as a primary asset for tourism, actual detailed plans for sustainable management practices are often lacking, a new report from UN Tourism reveals.

Published on International Day of Biodiversity, on May 22, the report “The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies”, explores the intricate relationship between the tourism sector and biodiversity, which encompasses the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems.

“As custodians of the Earth’s natural resources, it is crucial that we foster a harmonious relationship between tourism and the environment,” says UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

The report assesses how 80 national tourism policies incorporate biodiversity values and aims to deepen the understanding of the references to biodiversity within these policies.

According to Pololikashvili, the publication not only highlights the interdependence of biodiversity and tourism but also underscores the essential role of well-integrated policies play in ensuring a sustainable future for everyone.

Photo source: UN Tourism

The UN Tourism’s report comprises four detailed subsections that examine the integration of biodiversity within policy narratives, policy statements, strategic programs, and commitments to monitoring.

“By providing insights into the breadth and depth of current integration efforts, it serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and the global community, urging further action towards a sustainable future,” the UN specialized tourism agency said in an announcement.

Tourism answering nature’s call to action

“Be part of the Plan” was the theme of International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) 2024, serving as a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity. The theme involved supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan.

The UN Tourism’s new report comes as a part of the commitments set out at the UN Biodiversity Conference COP-15, held in Montreal in December 2022, where the historic Biodiversity Plan was adopted. Furthermore, the report complements the recently launched publication “Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action” amplifying the momentum towards environmentally responsible practices within the tourism sector.