Inspiration Hub

The 2018 edition of the Global Destination Sustainability Index benchmark is showing some interesting results; if Scandinavian Destinations are still ahead, the Australian cities of Melbourne and Sydney are making it to the TOP 10, demonstrating a strong commitment of Melbourne and Sydney’s CVBs to sustainability, backed-up by a solid collaboration with city authorities.

Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO, BESydney comments:

“The renowned link between Australia’s nature and culture makes sustainability a key priority for New South Wales and Sydney alike,” said BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith. “Through the City of Sydney led initiative, the Sustainable Destination Partnership, BESydney works collaboratively with Sydney’s entire events and entertainment sector to ensure both organisations and delegates are ecologically responsible and maintain best practice. I’m very proud to see that our combined effort is taking effect.”

Brussels and Espoo’s performance are making and entrance in the TOP 10, thanks to a focused approach on their sustainability initiatives in the past year.

The 2018 trends demonstrate a strong commitment for improvement with the TOP 10 average score increasing by 6% compared to 2017 (from 79% in 2017 to 85% in 2018) and some destinations going the extra mile:

Goyang CVB has won the Best Improved Destination Award, they have put remarkable efforts in formalising a sustainability strategy for the destination, putting in place tools to measure performance, and building capacity through industry trainings.

Dublin CVB was a very close runner-up and did also tremendously upped their game by putting in place a comprehensive sustainability strategy for the destination, including strong communication about their sustainability involvement.

Mélanie Delaplanche, the GDS-Index Director adds:

“I am thrilled to see the level of performance improve year on year, this is an extremely good sign that destinations are tackling the sustainability challenges of our industry and that the GDS-Index drives and delivers measurable results. Well done to all participating destinations!”