The World Conference on Tourism and Future Energy: Unlocking low-carbon growth opportunitieswas held in Astana, Kazakhstan on 26-27 June 2017.

The conference was a joint initiative of Astana EXPO 2017 and the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan saw industry leaders and policy makers convened in the Kazakh capital city of Astana to discuss the contribution of the tourism sector to reducing carbon emissions.

It was a chance to discuss ways to reduce carbon emissions, promote competitiveness and sustainability of tourism as well as to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Discussions focused on how to implement mitigation and adaption measures in transport, accommodation and desitnations in the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals-especially Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).  

The Geneva Liaison Office (GVLO) led the organisation of the conference from Geneva with cooperation from Madrid (HQ) and the EXPO 2017 Astana team. This event is within the scope of work of the Liaison office, especially through the Research and Innovation scope for the 2030 Agenda. It was also held in the framework of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017 and aimed to advance the commitment of the tourism sector to the global climate change agenda. 

For the full Conference Report please click here

To view more pictures from the conference: