A white paper has been released by the European Travel Commission and Global Destination Sustainability Movement.A Destination’s Guide to the New EU Sustainability Regulations“, at IMEX Frankfurt 2025. This guide aims at helping destinations in the tourism sector navigate upcoming significant regulatory changes. Destination Management Organisations, National Tourism Organisations, and other tourism-related organisations can benefit from being prepared by ensuring sustainability compliance. They will also be able to reduce negative environmental effects, mitigate reputational damages, gain financial and legal immunity and create new opportunities.
The new directives — the Corporate Sustainability Reporting directive (CSRD).The Empowering Consumers to the Green Transition DirectiveThe. Green Claims Directive — will require greater transparency, accountability, and stricter management of sustainability claims, reshaping how destination management organisations operate and communicate their environmental impacts.
This regulation applies not only to destinations in Europe and to businesses there, but also to Organisations operating on the EU marketThe white paper includes digital intermediaries and global accommodation platforms. This white paper has been launched to assist NTOs, DMOs and the wider tourism sector navigate these changes. It provides practical steps on how to achieve compliance, manage risks and seize new opportunities. It provides updated sustainability reports and compliant communications strategies to help organizations navigate the changing legislative landscape with confidence.
The sustainability of destinations is now an important factor when it comes to how they are perceived and approached. NTOs and DMOs have a unique opportunity to set the example, guiding local businesses and stakeholders to a more responsive, responsible tourism. As new EU rules are on the horizon it is important they stay ahead and set an example for others. ETC CEO, Eduardo Santander
Destinations that are proactive can set an example by following the new regulations. This is not just about compliance – it’s about leadership and new scope. Destinations which act now can build trust, improve their reputations and have a better chance of long-term success. Guy Bigwood is the CEO of GDS.
Three key actions are highlighted in the white paper:
- Understanding the roles, responsibilities and obligations involved in complying to the new EU directives.
- Aligning the destination management strategy with marketing claims and regulations.
- The risks and benefits of early adoption include improved reputation, increased visitor trust and new funding channels.
Supporting the industry through this transition is important. ETC and GDS-Movement to host two webinars 10 and 11 Jun 2025The ” offers additional insights as well as practical next steps.
You can download the entire white paper here.
About European Travel Commission
The European Travel Commission, founded in 1948, is an association unique in the travel sector. It represents all the major players in the industry. National Tourism Organisations It is the mission of the organization to strengthen sustainable development of Europe as a tourist destination. Its mission statement is to promote the sustainable growth of Europe as a tourism destination. ETC has been at the forefront of European tourism for decades. It has built up its expertise, and formed partnerships in tourism based on market intelligence, promotion and sharing best practices.
