By Netpal Travel Bureau
On November 20, 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan, hosted Tourism Day at COP29, spotlighting the tourism sector’s pivotal role in combating climate change. The event united tourism ministers, senior officials, and international organizations from nearly 30 countries, emphasizing the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices and climate action.
A key outcome was the signing of a Letter of Intent between the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan and UN Tourism. This agreement aims to enhance cooperation through the Enhanced Climate Initiative for Tourism, establishing a global platform to promote low-carbon and sustainable tourism practices.
Azerbaijan also announced its endorsement of the Glasgow Declaration Initiative on Climate Action in Tourism, solidifying its commitment to developing comprehensive climate action plans. These plans prioritize decarbonisation, regeneration, and alignment with international climate objectives, underscoring Azerbaijan’s leadership in sustainable tourism.
The event reinforced the COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism, supported by over 50 countries and eight non-state actors. This declaration provides a strategic framework to integrate tourism into global climate policies, focusing on Policy enhancement, Science-based metrics, Decarbonisation and Global partnerships
A highlight of the day was the unveiling of the Net Zero Roadmap: Second Edition by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The report revealed a 27% increase in businesses setting climate targets over three years. It showcased advancements in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and provided practical tools for small and medium-sized enterprises to access green financing and meet sustainability goals.
Azerbaijan’s active participation and leadership at COP29 underscore its commitment to sustainable tourism and global climate action. By fostering international collaboration and implementing innovative solutions, the country is setting a benchmark for integrating tourism into climate strategies.
Tourism Day at COP29 demonstrated the sector’s potential to drive meaningful change, offering a pathway to a sustainable and resilient future.