World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27 every year, in order to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic significance. From 1980 till now, we have come so far in terms of global tourism, but it is something that keeps on evolving. Tourism is spread far and wide, in various shapes and forms that it becomes imperative that it is a sustainable one.

Keeping that in mind, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has kept the theme Tourism and Green Investment this year.

Credit: iStock

History and impact of World Tourism Day

As mentioned above, World Tourism Day was first officially celebrated on September 27, 1980. Its main objective was to promote global tourism and to highlight mutual understanding and cooperation among people from different cultures and backgrounds. It is also the best time to reflect on the economic growth that many countries have seen, thanks to tourism.

What is Tourism and Green Investment?

As per United Nations World Tourism Organisation, it has become imperative for the stakeholders to invest better post Covid-19 pandemic. Calling investments as one of the key priorities, the UNWTO emphasises the fact that post pandemic, the people and the planet need to come back on the path of prosperity. To do that, right investment or better targeted investments is the key. Investing in sectors that will benefit the people and work wonders for the environment at the same time.

Credit: iStockThis World Tourism Day, all international governments, financial institutions, development partners and private sector investors are asked to unite and brainstorm a new tourism investment strategy.

Needless to say, anything that comes forth from this, needs to be environment-friendly. Environmental impact of travel also needs to be at the centre of any travel-related discussions.

World Tourism Day is a great opportunity to remind and educate people about the benefits and challenges of tourism.