Tourism

Tourism is a key driver of urban economies and a strategic lever for advancing nature-positive, low-carbon, and circular urban development. It influences how cities manage natural assets, infrastructure, and resource flows, creating opportunities to align visitor economies with sustainability goals. When embedded in integrated urban planning, sustainable tourism can support the conservation of biodiversity, promote low-carbon mobility and infrastructure, and encourage circular practices in sectors such as hospitality, food systems, and waste management. By prioritizing responsible and regenerative tourism models, cities can attract investment, strengthen local livelihoods, and enhance resilience, ensuring that tourism contributes to long-term environmental sustainability, economic diversification, and inclusive urban development.

 

Explore more resources in the GPSC Knowledge Products, featuring case studies, toolkits, and technical guidance from cities around the world. Use the filters and categories to navigate by theme or topic and find content tailored to your city’s priorities.

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Nairobi, Kenya

GPSC Global Forum and City Academy

22 February 2027, 9:00 GMT+3

Bringing cities and partners together to turn sustainable urban priorities into practical action, investment, and implementation

Online

Urban Nature Program: CBD COP17 - Key Outcomes and Implications for Cities

18 November 2026, 8:30 ET

Join the Urban Nature Network and ICLEI to explore the key outcomes of CBD COP17, hear city perspectives, and discuss opportunities to translate global biodiversity commitments into local action
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Tourism

Seoul's Experience in Cultural Heritage Sustainable Tourism and Urban Regeneration

The report traces Seoul’s effort to balance heritage, tourism, and regeneration, offering case studies to strengthen inclusive urban development.
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Tourism

Orange is the new colour of city competitiveness: The role of local governments in promoting cultural and creative industries

The paper shows how cities can leverage culture and creativity for development through procurement, services, regulation, and enterprise support.
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Tourism

Promoting Disaster Resilient Cultural Heritage

Cultural heritage faces growing risks from disasters and climate change; strengthening heritage management is essential to safeguard assets.
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