Sustainable Tourism
Promoting sustainable tourism planning and development in the Pacific region is one of SPTO’s key strategic priorities as articulated in its Strategic Plan 2020 – 2024.
Sustainable tourism can be defined as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities” UNWTO.
Sustainable tourism is a major contributor to economic development, underscoring the need for environmentally responsible, socially equitable and culturally acceptable development. Tourism is specifically referenced in the targets of Sustainable Development Goals 8, 12 and 14, on inclusive and sustainable economic development, sustainable consumption and production, and sustainable use of oceans and marine resources, respectively. Tourism is also a cross-cutting sector and contributes to the achievement of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
We recognize that our 20 Member Countries are at different stages of development and progress in terms of sustainability. As we navigate the challenges imposed and exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic on the tourism sector globally, we as a collective are united in resetting our region in anticipation of a responsible and inclusive recovery.
The Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework 2030 reflects the aspirations of the SPTO and its members, the tourism industry, civil society organisations, regional organisations and global development partners. The shared vision is “By 2030 we are empowered by, and benefit from tourism that is resilient, prosperous and inclusive. It improves the wellbeing of our communities and protects, restores and promotes our cultures, islands and ocean ecosystems”.
Achieving this vision will require collective action from all stakeholders, regardless of where you are in your sustainability journey. As a region, we have identified four key Goals that will guide our recovery and future engagement and these are:
Goal 1: Economic Prosperity where tourism supports prosperous and resilient economies
Goal 2: Thriving and Inclusive Communities where tourism supports the empowerment and wellbeing of our communities
Goal 3: Visible and Valued Cultures where tourism amplifies and promotes our culture and heritage and
Goal 4: Healthy Islands and Oceans where tourism accelerates climate action, protect our ecosystems and supports resilience
Underpinning the Framework is our aspiration to improve in the areas of Research and Statistics as the foundation for destination planning, development, management and marketing. Accordingly, a Pacific Tourism Statistics Strategy and a Digital Marketing Strategy Framework have been developed to guide our regional initiatives towards a sustainable future for the Pacific through tourism.
Sustainability is a journey and we invite you to join us in finding innovative and lasting solutions for our future generations to enjoy!