Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism has become essential for the long-term success, reputation, and resilience of destinations. This page features our latest insights on how cities, regions, and countries approach tourism development and destination management with sustainability in mind — from strategy and leadership to branding and visitor experience.
If you’re interested in meeting the changemakers driving sustainable tourism around the world, we recommend visiting the Sustainability Leaders Project. It features 250+ interviews with thought leaders and practitioners advancing more responsible forms of tourism.
Elke Dens & Frank Cuypers on Regenerative Development and the Next Places to Watch
Elke Dens and Frank Cuypers of Place Generation on regenerative place development, community-led strategy, and the cities and regions worth watching right now.
Katarina Thorstensson on Gothenburg, Sustainable Destination Development, and Growing Better
Katarina Thorstensson of Göteborg & Co reflects on seven consecutive years at the top of the Global Destination Sustainability Index, and what it really takes to combine tourism growth with long-term responsibility.
Lynn Dauwe and Evelyne Bardyn on Flanders, Heritage and Impact-Driven Conferences
How Flanders aligns heritage, sustainability and coordination into one coherent hosting model — insights from VISITFLANDERS and the Flanders Convention Bureau.
Todd Babiak on the Gold Coast’s Place Brand, Resident Listening and Stewardship Over Promotion
How Brand Gold Coast built its place brand from the inside out — Todd Babiak on resident listening, city identity, and the long game of stewardship.
Gothenburg
How Gothenburg has made sustainability the default — from fossil-free transport and certified hotels to events as civic tools. Seven-time world leader in destination sustainability.
Editor’s Letter: A New Chapter for Sustainability Leaders United
An editorial look at Sustainability Leaders United joining The Place Brand Observer, and why sustainability is key to place brand leadership.