- Theme
- “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”
- Background
World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27th, as designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), to foster awareness among the international community about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.
The theme for World Tourism Day 2025, declared by UN Tourism, is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, placing strong emphasis on the role of tourism in addressing climate change, promoting inclusive socio-economic development, and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It calls upon all stakeholders—governments, private sector, academia, and civil society—to rethink and redesign tourism for a greener, more resilient future.
- Event Overview
The Sustainable Development Council (SDC), a global organization holding Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2021, is proud to host this one-day flagship event in Pondicherry on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2025.
This event, titled “Tourism 360: Driving Sustainable Transformation”, will bring together key industry leaders, policymakers, academicians, researchers, social entrepreneurs, and tourism professionals to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and co-create actionable ideas for the future of sustainable tourism.
- Sustainable Development Goals
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries – developed and developing – in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.
SDG Alignment – Tourism 360: Driving Sustainable Transformation
The event directly contributes to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
| SDG | Relevant Theme | Event Activity |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 8 | Economic Growth & Jobs | Panels, Startup Showcase |
| SDG 12 | Responsible Tourism | Awards, Best Practice Sharing |
| SDG 13 | Climate Action | Climate Panels, Innovations |
| SDG 11 | Sustainable Destinations | Community Empowerment Sessions |
| SDG 9 | Innovation & Infrastructure | Research Presentations |
| SDG 17 | Global Partnerships | Multi-stakeholder Engagement |
| SDG 5 | Gender Equality | Inclusive Participation & Recognition |
- Objectives
- To explore the transformative potential of tourism in addressing climate change and advancing sustainable development.
- To showcase innovative models and grassroots success stories in tourism that empower local communities.
- To provide a platform for youth, researchers, and tourism startups to present ideas and solutions.
- To recognize and reward excellence in sustainable tourism practices.
- Key Activities
Inaugural Ceremony
Featuring keynote addresses by industry veterans, government representatives, and international speakers.
Panel Discussions – Thematic dialogues on:
- Tourism & Climate Action: Turning Ambitions into Practice
- Entrepreneurship & Local Empowerment through Tourism
- Smart & Sustainable Destinations
Research Paper Presentations
Selected papers from academicians and research scholars, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and policy impact.
Startup & Innovation Showcase
Featuring ideas and case studies by young entrepreneurs and changemakers in eco-tourism, responsible travel, and tech-enabled experiences.
Sustainability Awards Ceremony
Honoring organizations, individuals, and destinations that have made significant contributions toward sustainable tourism and community empowerment.
Networking & Partnerships
Structured interactions to foster collaboration between stakeholders from across the tourism value chain.
- Target Audience
- Tourism Boards and Government Departments
- Travel & Hospitality Industry Stakeholders
- Researchers and Academia
- Tourism Entrepreneurs and Startups
- NGOs and Civil Society Organizations
- Media and Communication Partners
- Expected Outcome
- Enhanced awareness and commitment toward sustainability in the tourism sector.
- Actionable insights and policy recommendations for sustainable destination development.
- New partnerships and collaborative initiatives.
- Recognition and visibility for sustainable tourism champions.
- About the Organizer
The Sustainable Development Council (SDC) is an independent, international organization working to advance the global Sustainable Development Goals through inclusive partnerships, policy advocacy, and innovation. With Special Consultative Status with the United Nations ECOSOC since 2021, SDC operates across sectors to catalyze solutions that are socially inclusive, environmentally sound, and economically viable.
- Conclusion
- As the world stands at the crossroads of transformation, tourism can no longer remain business as usual. The Tourism 360 event in Pondicherry seeks to inspire a new vision—one where travel becomes a tool for climate resilience, economic justice, and cultural preservation. We invite you to join us on this journey to redefine tourism for a sustainable future
