Helsinki claims the top spot in the 2024 Global Destination Sustainability Index, showcasing its commitment to sustainable tourism, carbon neutrality, and smart infrastructure.
Helsinki has officially claimed the top spot as the world’s most sustainable travel destination, earning the number-one ranking in the 2024 Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index. This achievement, announced on October 16, marks a significant milestone for the Finnish capital, which has steadily climbed the ranks over recent years, moving from fourth place in 2023 to lead the competition this year. The GDS Index evaluates over one hundred cities worldwide on their sustainability efforts across four critical dimensions, with Helsinki proving to be a standout performer.
The index, a benchmark for sustainable tourism, assesses destinations through more than seventy indicators. Cities are scored across Destination Management, Supplier Performance, Environmental Performance, and Social Performance. This year, Helsinki secured top honors in Destination Management, Supplier Performance, and Environmental Performance, and placed second in Social Performance — a strong showing that reflects the city’s deliberate, cross-sector sustainability initiatives. “Being named the world’s most sustainable travel destination is proof of the long-term work that has been done in Helsinki. We are developing and growing tourism sustainably together with tourism operators and local residents. The first place we have now achieved indicates that we are on the right path,” Juhana Vartiainen, Mayor of Helsinki, said in a statement.
Helsinki’s strategy extends beyond tourism, aiming to balance ecological responsibility with the practical needs of its residents and visitors. Public transportation options are abundant, making it simple to explore the city by bike, tram, or bus. The city has electrified more than 30 percent of its regional bus fleet and is poised to add more than thirty kilometers of new tramways in the coming decade. These initiatives reflect a broader ambition: Helsinki aims for carbon neutrality by 2030, focusing heavily on renewable energy, improved energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure development.
The demand for eco-friendly travel continues to rise, a trend that plays to Helsinki’s strengths. “International studies show that travellers are increasingly looking for more sustainable services and destinations. There will no doubt be increasing demand for the world’s most sustainable tourist destination in the future,” explained Nina Vesterinen, Tourism Director at the City of Helsinki.
Helsinki’s efforts in sustainable tourism encompass a wide range of initiatives designed to ensure the city’s environmental and social goals are met. The city’s Climate Action Plan for Tourism and Events positions Helsinki to lead in smart and sustainable tourism, reinforced by policies that promote sustainable practices among local businesses and encourage resident participation in tourism development. Helsinki also regularly measures tourism’s carbon footprint, helping companies reduce emissions and adopt greener practices.
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