Launch of the “Destinos del Futuro” network at the first Global Sustainable Tourism Council summit on sustainable tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean in Santa Marta, Colombia

From May 27 to 29, 2024, Santa Marta, Colombia hosted the first summit on sustainable tourism organized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates from more than 25 countries to advance sustainable tourism practices and develop a roadmap toward 2030. The summit set an important precedent, with Latin America and the Caribbean declaring: “We have what it takes to offer the world a different model of sustainable tourism. The path forward lies in strong relationships, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our territories.”

Knowledge exchange and inspiring success stories
The collaboration among participants led to a meaningful exchange of knowledge and best practices. Through dynamic panel discussions and interactive workshops, attendees gained valuable insights into innovative approaches and successful strategies for sustainable tourism. Key topics included nature conservation, climate change and tourism, community-based tourism, and the role of tourism service providers in sustainability and regeneration.

This exchange not only deepened participants’ understanding but also strengthened a growing network of professionals committed to advancing sustainability in tourism across the region.

An overview of environmentally and socially sustainable tourism in Colombia, Ecuador, and Palau

Launch of Destinos del Futuro

With a strong presence of TourCert partners from Peru, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia, the summit was marked by moments of genuine enthusiasm, camaraderie, and a strong sense of shared purpose. One of the key highlights was the launch of the “Destinos del Futuro” initiative.

Supported by TourCert, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, and Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) as part of the Tourism Impact Alliance project, this initiative aims to build a resilient and regenerative network of tourism destinations across Latin America and the Caribbean. It promotes regional collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of a clear roadmap for sustainable tourism.

The launch concluded with a symbolic gesture, as participants embraced one another—signaling unity and a shared commitment to a sustainable future for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Sustainable tourism can only succeed if all stakeholders work together.

Outlook

The first Global Sustainable Tourism Council summit on sustainable tourism in Santa Marta marked a significant milestone, highlighting the region’s capacity and commitment to taking a leading role in advancing sustainable tourism. The connections built, ideas exchanged, and commitments made over the course of these three days will undoubtedly shape the future of tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean—demonstrating that sustainable tourism is not only possible, but well within reach when we work together.

The “Destinos del Futuro” network will play a central role in this effort. We will continue to provide updates on further developments. The next Tourism Impact Alliance newsletter will present the admission criteria and work program of the “Destinos del Futuro” network.