The consultancy Global Destination Sustainability that publishes an annual tourism sustainability index has awarded the Nordic city of Helsinki leadership title for sustainable travel in 2024. Helsinki’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and net zero for events it organizes by 2040 along with engaging residents in decision-making processes, and a comprehensive biodiversity strategy promoted it to the top of the sustainability index.
Here is the top 10 of the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) 2024:
- Helsinki, Finland
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Bergen, Norway
- Aarhus, Denmark
- Bordeaux, France
- Singapore
- Oslo, Norway
- Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Sydney, Australia
The most improved tourism destination award winner was Kumamoto, Japan. The achievement was a result of a comprehensive water management program, a forward-looking mobility plan, and a robust circular economy approach.
The innovation award winner for 2024 was Copenhagen for the city’s CopenPay initiative. The concept encourages visitors to earn rewards, such as free guided tours, complimentary kayak rentals, and vegetarian meals for their climate-positive actions.
