The GDS-Index is a global benchmarking and performance improvement programme that helps destinations measure, manage, and improve their sustainability performance through a structured, data-driven framework. It assesses environmental, social, supplier, and destination management indicators, enabling cities and regions to benchmark progress and strengthen their competitive edge.
Beyond measurement, the GDS-Index supports destinations to build systems to manage, monitor, and continuously improve their sustainability performance. It helps organisations move from fragmented data and reporting to clear indicators, evidence-based decision-making, and structured sustainability management. The programme also provides a development pathway for destination management organisations, guiding them from initial engagement through the implementation of a Sustainable Management System and ultimately towards certification readiness.
Scope: Unlike other destination standards and rankings, the GDS-Index was originally and exclusively created for the events and meetings industry. Since 2020, leisure tourism has been integrated into its criteria and methodology, making it a unique and holistic programme to evaluate and drive performance across the visitor economy in urban destinations.
