Based on the GDS-Index’s benchmarking and assessment results, this award goes to the top performer amongst participating destinations in order to highlight the destination’s exemplary commitment and efforts to becoming as sustainable as possible. For the fourth time running, our 2019 winner is Gothenburg, Sweden.

This award will be evaluated by a panel comprised of experienced event professionals and sustainability leaders. Candidates will be requested to submit an application describing why and how their destination’s sustainability initiatives stand out from the crowd. Our 2019 winner is Sydney, Australia, for its “Sustainable Destination Partnership”, which brings together key industry stakeholders in a co-creative effort to fulfil its ambitious sustainability targets.

Since the 2017 ICCA Congress, this award has gone to the destination that has demonstrated the highest level of overall improvement from the previous year. In 2019 the most improved award has been given to an entire country for the very first time. Congratulations to Meet in Ireland, which has seen its destinations increase up to 35% compared to 2018 results.