The Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) has announced its 2023 results, showcasing global destinations’ commitment to sustainability.
Gothenburg secured the top spot for the seventh time, with a score of 94.64%. Oslo jumped from tenth to second place, while Copenhagen and Helsinki also ranked high.
Nordic countries dominated the top ten, with Western Europe and Asia Pacific also represented. Singapore rose 18 places to 17th, emphasizing its dedication to sustainability.
This year saw 42 newcomers, driven by efforts from VisitBritain and Destination Canada. Emerging trends include climate integration (85% have climate strategies), stakeholder engagement, third-party certification, social impact strategies, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and improved storytelling.
Large cities led in sustainability, comprising 37% of the index.
“The evolution and results of the GDS-Index unequivocally demonstrate that destination management organisations and national tourism organisations can and do drive accelerated economic, social, and environmental transformation within their tourism and events ecosystems. With this compelling evidence, we hold the key to an optimistic future for travel and events. By amplifying our regenerative action plans and scaling them with urgency, we pave the way for meaningful change and progress,” said Guy Bigwood, CEO at GDS-Movement.