The Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) and the European Travel Commission (ETC) unveiled a new white paper, A Destination’s Guide to the New EU Sustainability Regulations, in a joint effort to help destinations in the tourism and events sectors adapt to imminent legislative changes.
Launched at IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the guide outlines how organisations can respond to a new wave of European directives—the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (ECGTD), and the Green Claims Directive (GCD).
These regulations will soon require destinations and businesses operating in the EU, including international platforms and intermediaries, to demonstrate stricter transparency, accountability, and integrity in their sustainability efforts.
“This is not just about compliance – it’s about leadership and new scope,” remarked Guy Bigwood, CEO of GDS-Movement. “Destinations that act now will build trust, enhance their reputations, and be better-positioned for long-term success.”
The white paper identifies three priority actions: clarifying organisational responsibilities under the directives, aligning marketing and management practices with legal expectations, and proactively managing the risks—and seizing the opportunities—of early adoption.
One such opportunity is the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME), an emerging framework that can assist smaller DMOs in accessing sustainable finance and reinforcing their ESG credentials.
Eduardo Santander, CEO of ETC, emphasised the strategic importance of these developments: “NTOs and DMOs are in a unique position to lead the way. With new EU rules on the horizon, it’s essential they stay ahead of the curve and set the example for others to follow.”
To further support implementation, GDS-Movement and ETC will host a two-part webinar series on 10 and 11 June 2025, offering in-depth guidance and tools for navigating the new regulatory landscape.