The leaders of the major global travel and tourism associations have welcomed the adoption of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The Global Travel Association Coalition, which represents the leading public and private bodies in the travel sector, attests to the global importance of the Sustainable Development Goals and the role of the tourism sectors in their realisation.

Speaking on behalf of GTAC, David Scowsill, president of the World Travel & Tourism Council said: “Tourism is a sector which collectively contributes nearly ten per cent of the world’s GDP and one in eleven of all jobs on the planet.

“Over one billion people cross international borders each year, a number expected to reach 1.8 billion by 2030, while at the same time, billions more travel domestically.

“This is a sector which will play a very significant role in making progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Like the Sustainable Development Goals themselves, the tourism sector is global and action-oriented.

“It consists of millions of companies – from the smallest hostel to the largest airline – which together forge an industry which encourages sustainable economic growth, creates jobs, promotes opportunities across society and alleviates poverty.

“Tourism has the potential to contribute directly or indirectly to all of the goals.

“In particular, as one of the largest and fastest growing economic sectors in the world, tourism is well-positioned to foster economic growth and create jobs throughout the world to meet Goal #1 “End poverty in all its forms everywhere”.

“In particular, tourism has been included as a specific target in Goals #8, #12 and #14 on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, sustainable consumption and production and the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources.

“The Sustainable Development Goals will play a major role in framing our world for the next generation.

“The Global Travel Association Coalition, representing the major public and private bodies in the Travel & Tourism industry, welcomes their adoption and the part that our sector will play in making them a reality.”

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UN Global Sustainable Development Goals 8, 12 and 14 specifically mention the role of tourism.

Goal 8 states the global community will seek to promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

At the same time, Goal 12 seeks to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns, while Goal 14 commits states to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.