United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said tourism is a powerful force for progress and mutual understanding but in order to deliver its full benefits, this force must be protected and nurtured. 

“On this World Tourism Day, we recognize the vital need for green investments to build a tourism sector that delivers for people and planet,” he said in a message marking the World Tourism Day that falls on September 27.

Today, the climate emergency is threatening many travel destinations and the very survival of communities and economies that depend on tourism.

And, the UN chief said, many developing countries that are severely affected by a changing climate are also facing a growing investment deficit and a cost-of-living crisis.

“So let us all do more to harness the full potential of sustainable tourism. Because investing in sustainable tourism is investing in a better future for all,” Guterres said. 

He said governments and businesses must invest in sustainable and resilient tourism practices.

Read: US visa restrictions: State Dept spokesperson refrains from mentioning media

“Private actors must adopt zero-emission pathways, lower their energy consumption and leverage renewable forms of energy. And everyone must protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of all destinations,” said the UN chief.

He said targeted investments can deliver jobs and support local businesses and industries while mitigating the environmental impacts of tourism, empowering communities, promoting their cultures, and contributing to essential social protection systems.