The GDS Index evaluates over 100 cities worldwide using more than 70 indicators across four categories: Destination Management, Supplier Performance, Environmental Performance, and Social Performance. Last year, Helsinki ranked fourth.
“Being named the world’s most sustainable travel destination is proof of the long-term work that has been done in Helsinki. We are developing and growing tourism sustainably together with tourism operators and local residents. The first place we have now achieved indicates that we are on the right path,” comments Juhana Vartiainen, Mayor of Helsinki.
Sustainable Investments
Helsinki excelled particularly in Destination Management, Supplier Performance, and Environmental Performance, and ranked second in Social Progress. The city invests in enhancing social sustainability in tourism by supporting local businesses and increasing resources for the development of tourist destinations.
“International studies show that travellers are increasingly looking for more sustainable services and destinations. There will no doubt be increasing demand for the world’s most sustainable tourist destination in the future,” says Nina Vesterinen, Tourism Director at the City of Helsinki.