What's Happening?
The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), in collaboration with the TUI Care Foundation and the University of Cambridge, has launched the 'Tourism Food for Good' initiative. This global effort aims to create sustainable and circular food systems within
the tourism industry. The initiative seeks to address food insecurity and reduce the carbon footprint associated with food waste in tourism. By promoting policy changes and innovative solutions, 'Tourism Food for Good' aims to minimize food loss, enhance surplus redistribution, and add value to by-products. The initiative will develop a 2040 Impact Roadmap for Sustainable Food Systems in Tourism, identifying leverage points for transformation.
Why It's Important?
The 'Tourism Food for Good' initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable development in the tourism sector. By focusing on food systems, the initiative addresses critical issues such as food waste and insecurity, which have broader implications for global food security and environmental sustainability. Tourism has the potential to drive systemic change, and this initiative leverages that power to promote local agriculture, reduce waste, and support circular food systems. The collaboration between UN Tourism, TUI Care Foundation, and the University of Cambridge highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.
What's Next?
The first pilot of the 'Tourism Food for Good' initiative will take place in Cabo Verde, with plans to adapt and scale the results to other destinations. The initiative invites governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to partner in co-designing the 2040 Impact Roadmap and hosting pilots at various levels. As the initiative progresses, it will test real solutions on the ground, aiming to create a roadmap for the future of sustainable food systems in tourism. The success of these pilots could lead to widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the tourism industry, contributing to global efforts to combat food insecurity and environmental degradation.
