The tourism sector has the potential to play a key role in maintaining the health of ocean ecosystems. To mark the launch of the new flagship MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises' most energy-efficient ship to date, international leaders from the worlds of science, politics, and business explored new avenues for responsible consumption and production in tourism as a key strategy for the transition to a regenerative, carbon-neutral, and circular economy.
The UN and the private sector: Together for Ocean Action
The expert roundtable, organized by the MSC Foundation and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to explore the theme of “Tourism Ocean Action for a Net Zero Future”, included the participation of leaders from the public and private sectors,
Charting the course towards sustainability
Given that coastal and maritime tourism represents at least 50% of global tourism, according to the Ocean Panel, and 40% of the value of all exports, the debate focused on the relationship between tourism and ocean sustainability.
- The strategies outlined to achieve this have focused on investing in the protection and regeneration of marine ecosystems and in nature-based solutions that maximize their capacity to reduce carbon, while also advancing the decarbonization of tourism operations and improving the resilience of local communities.
- Policymakers and business leaders have shared policies, strategies, and solutions to accelerate tourism action in the oceans.
A shared vision of tourism action in the oceans
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili commented : “ Finding the right balance between tourism operations and the health of our planet has never been more important. Coastal and cruise tourism plays a vital role in the global economy. That is why UNWTO works with partners like MSC to drive Climate Action .”
Pierfrancesco Vago, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the MSC Foundation and CEO of the MSC Group's Cruise Division, stated: “Our partnership with the UNWTO, exemplified by the 'Tourism Ocean Action for a Net Zero Future' panel, is crucial to our shared vision of responsible tourism. MSC Euribia, our most energy-efficient ship to date, symbolizes this commitment. ”
MSC Foundation Executive Director Daniela Piccoadded: “The path to sustainability can only be a journey undertaken together through dialogue and concrete actions. That is why I want to thank the UNWTO for its valuable collaboration in making this event possible.”
