World Tourism Day 2023
In regards to World Tourism Day 2023 whose theme emphasizes Tourism and Green Investments, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “[It] has never been more important for our economies or for our societies. Its potential is enormous. And so on this World Tourism Day, we celebrate tourism’s ability to drive growth while also highlighting the vital need for investments to ensure such growth is inclusive and sustainable.”
The UNWTO celebration is set to be held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, 27 September, 2023.
The day will focus on the importance of:
- Investing in People through education and skills acquisition,
- Investing in the Planet through sustainable infrastructure and accelerating green transformation
- Investing in Prosperity through innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Tourism and Green Investments
The UNWTO defines tourism as “a social, cultural, and economic phenomenon which [involves] the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents.”
Green investments involves financial investments made in projects, businesses, or assets that can have a positive environmental impact including sustainability and responsible business practices. This can involve investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and other projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or protect the environment.
The relationship between tourism and green investments is often seen as a way to address climate change and other environmental challenges, while also providing economic benefits such as job creation and economic growth.
Over time Nigeria’s economy has historically been reliant on oil exports, however, diversifying the economy through tourism can create new revenue streams and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in oil prices. Green investments in tourism can attract eco-conscious travelers, providing a niche market for sustainable tourism products and services.
As seen in Rwanda, green investments have the potentials of totally transforming Nigeria.
