Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (DT) — At today’s G20 Tourism Ministers meeting, held in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) leaders called for accelerated global action on three critical fronts: climate action, inclusion, and education. The meeting, attended by ministers and high-level representatives from the world’s leading economies, focused on how sustainable tourism can drive economic recovery while addressing pressing global challenges.
Climate Action:
A central theme of the discussions was the role tourism must play in the fight against climate change. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili urged governments and industry leaders to invest in sustainable travel infrastructure and implement green practices to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint. “Tourism can be a game-changer in climate action, but we must act now,” Pololikashvili said, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources and promoting responsible travel.
Ensuring tourism benefits are shared equitably across communities was another key priority. Ministers highlighted the need to make tourism more inclusive, particularly for marginalized groups, including women, youth, and rural populations. Collaborative initiatives were discussed to create more inclusive policies and employment opportunities, ensuring tourism growth contributes to social equity.
Education:
The final focus of the meeting was on education and skill-building to prepare the tourism workforce for the future. As digital transformation reshapes the industry, G20 ministers agreed on the importance of strengthening educational programs and training opportunities to equip workers with the skills required for a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector.
This year’s G20 meeting underscores the critical role that tourism plays in global economic recovery, sustainability, and social progress. With a renewed commitment to climate action, inclusion, and education, the international tourism community is taking meaningful steps toward a more resilient and equitable future.
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