Helsinki, Tops the Most Sustainable Tourist Destination in the World

"For Helsinki, being named the world's most sustainable tourist destination is the result of a long-term commitment. The fact that we were selected as the number one winner this time proves that we were on the right path." - Juhana Vartiainen, Head of Helsinki.

The Global Destination Sustainability Index assesses sustainability across four key areas: Destination Management, Supplier Performance, Environmental Performance, and Social Performance. Helsinki has received very good ratings over the years, especially for its environmental performance, especially at the city level. This year, we ranked first in Destination Management, Supplier Performance, and Environmental Performance, and No. 2 in Social Performance. Helsinki is investing in increasing the social sustainability of tourism by supporting local businesses in their quest for sustainable development and expanding resources for the development of tourism destinations.

"International research shows that travelers are looking for more sustainable services and destinations than ever before, and there is no doubt that the demand for the world's most sustainable destinations will increase in the future." - Nina Vesterinen, Director of Tourism in Helsinki

Helsinki's urban strategy aims to become the most sustainable and smart tourist destination. Helsinki's Climate Action Plan for Tourism and Events aims to be at the top of the world in sustainability assessments in indicators and certifications. This goal includes achieving first place in the Global Destination Sustainability Index by 2025 at the latest.

Not only in the tourism sector but also in all its activities, Helsinki is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Helsinki's goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. This goal will be achieved primarily by increasing the share of renewable energy in heat and power production, as well as improving the energy efficiency of buildings. Helsinki is also investing in low-emission transportation, with more than 30% of buses electrified in the Helsinki region. Over the next 10 years, more than 30 kilometers of new tram lines will be introduced.

Helsinki is currently working on several sustainability projects and initiatives. The most important projects in the tourism sector are the development of inclusive tourism and additional investment in the participation of local residents in tourism development. In addition, Helsinki measures the carbon footprint of tourism, promotes the Helsinki Tourism Climate Action Plan, and supports travel agencies in their commitment to sustainable travel. We are also interested in working closely with domestic and international tourist destinations.

 

Visit Finland aims to set a new standard in tourism and make Finland one of the most sustainable tourist destinations in the world. To achieve this goal, we offer the "Sustainable Travel Finland" program for Finnish tourism companies and regions. Companies and regions that complete the programme and meet the criteria will be awarded the "Sustainable Travel Finland" label. This label ensures that the company or region is committed to sustainable operations and development, and helps travellers make more conscious choices in Finland.

Liisa Kokkarinen, Head of Sustainable Development at Visit Finland, said:

"Helsinki has been a real inspiration in the field of sustainable tourism development, which has set high goals from the beginning and is constantly striving to achieve them. Helsinki is also an active partner of Finland's Sustainable Travel Finland programme and is highly regarded for its contribution to the sustainability of tourism in the country as a whole."

In addition to Helsinki, the Finnish lakeside city of Tampere also ranked third in the environmental category this year, ranking 23rd in the overall ranking.

 

It develops the Finnish brand as a travel destination, promotes Finland to international travelers, and supports the globalization of companies in the travel industry. We cooperate with travel destinations and regions, travel industry businesses, other export-related companies, and embassies. Visit Finland is part of the Business Finland group. https://www.visitfinland.com/