The GDS-Index is a destination-level programme that measures, benchmarks, and improves the sustainability strategy and performance of tourism and events destinations.
The GDS-Index is aligned with international standards; UN SDGs, GSTC Destination Criteria, UNWTO.
Click here to read more about the benchmarking methodology including data collection and verification, the four benchmarking categories, governance and criteria development and performance scoring methods.
This page highlights each destinations sustainability journey and will showcase their journey.
The 2023 GDS-Index comprises 69 indicators across four categories. Here is the total score and the score for the four categories for this destination.
Environmental
Social
Supplier
Destination Management Organisation
Environmental
Includes a city's performance pertaining to its policies and infrastructure, such as climate change commitment, carbon emissions, renewable energies, resource and water management, public transport, and air pollution levels.
Social
Indicates the performance of the city against indicators of SDG integration, Corruption, Personal Safety, Access to Information and Communications, Health and Wellness, and Inclusivity, using external sources such as the Social Progress Imperative Index, and Corruption Perceptions Index.
Supplier
Addresses the sustainability commitment and performance of the local meetings' industry supply chain, including airports, events agencies, hotels, venues, and restaurants.
Destination Management Organisation
Indicates the sustainability commitment, including questions pertaining to maturity of a destination's sustainability and regeneration strategy, leadership, communication of sustainability initiatives (to support client planners), and the accuracy of their reporting on sustainability operations.
Geneva, a pioneer in sustainable tourism in Switzerland, is committed to providing an environmentally friendly and enriching experience for all. Our key initiatives include free and eco-friendly public transport, eco-label certified accommodation, biodiversity conservation projects, organising events with low environmental impact and promoting the circular economy. By choosing Geneva, you are supporting responsible tourism.
Does Geneva Tourism and Conventions Foundation have a Sustainability Strategy?
Does Geneva have a sustainable destination certificate?
Does Geneva Tourism and Conventions Foundation report on its sustainability performance?
Geneva is known for its landscapes and meets the highest standards of environmental sustainability, incorporating innovative and responsible practices to create a greener future. Thanks to an ambitious strategy, the canton is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, favouring renewable energies and promoting soft and inclusive mobility. Initiatives such as preserving green spaces, promoting public transport and responsible waste management demonstrate our commitment to protecting our precious environment. Geneva continues to inspire and support its residents, visitors and businesses to adopt a sustainable lifestyle.
OF ELECTRICITY
FROM RENEWABLES
OF WASTE
RECYCLED
HECTARES OF GREEN
AREA PER 100 000
POPULATION
Discover Geneva, where sustainability and innovation meet to offer environmentally-friendly events and meetings thanks to the expertise of the many international organisations based here, such as the WMO, UNEP and IRENA. These institutions contribute to the efficient coordination of global environmental initiatives. Our sustainability programme is committed to reducing the ecological footprint while delivering a quality experience. We work with local partners to organise zero-waste events, use renewable energy and promote sustainable transport. The city offers an impressive portfolio of sustainable events, supported by partners committed to recognised labels such as GRTA for restaurants and GreenGlobe for hotels. Every aspect, from venue selection to catering, is thought through to minimise environmental impact while guaranteeing outstanding service. Every day, Palexpo, the largest exhibition and convention centre in Geneva, works to promote a more sustainable society in every respect by protecting the environment, promoting social equity and ensuring optimum economic performance.
OF HOTEL ROOMS
SUSTAINABILITY
CERTIFIED
OF VENUES
SUSTAINABILITY
CERTIFIED
OF PCOS/DMCS
SUSTAINABILITY
CERTIFIED
Discover a city with a long tradition of human rights. Known as the "capital of peace", Geneva is home to the European headquarters of the UN and the headquarters of the Red Cross, reflecting its commitment to social justice. We create an inclusive and equitable community for all, promoting fair working practices, social inclusion, and respect for human rights. Culture in Geneva is essential, with the majority of museums and public attractions accessible free of charge. The city is committed to making culture accessible to people with special needs. For more information on accessibility and to plan your stay, visit our dedicated "Accessibility in Geneva" page.
The GDS-Movement is a pioneering, data-driven international change agency that acts to catalyse socio-economic and environmental transformation in cities and regions across the world. Our mission is to empower tourism and events professionals with the mindsets, skill sets, and toolsets to co-create more regenerative and resilient destinations to visit, meet, and live in.
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