Economic growth and opportunity
- 4% or more annual increase in international tourist arrivals since 2009
- 7% of total world exports and 30% of world services exports
- US$ 1.5 trillion in exports from international tourism in 2015
- 10% of world GDP
Why Tourism Matters
Understanding sustainable tourism's impact on our world
Employment and community development
- One in every eleven jobs globally
- Largest export category in many developing countries
- 57% of international tourist arrivals in 2030 will be in emerging economies
- Almost twice as many women employers as other sectors
Environmental stewardship
- Committed to reducing its 5% of world CO2 emissions
- Raises financing for conservation of heritage, wildlife and the environment
- Can be a vehicle for protecting and restoring biodiversity
- Must sustainably manage an expected 1.8 billion international tourists in 2030
Cultural preservation and diversity
- Revives traditional activities and customs
- Empowers communities and nurtures pride within them
- Promotes cultural diversity
- Raises awareness of the value of heritage
Cross-cultural understanding
- Breaks down barriers and builds bridges between visitors and hosts
- Provides opportunities for cross-cultural encounters that can build peace
- A resilient sector that recovers quickly from security threats
- A tool for soft diplomacy