SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 - Vienna Strengthens Global Commitment to Responsible Travel
Vienna has officially joined the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO), becoming part of a distinguished group of 46 global destinations committed to monitoring and managing tourism’s economic, environmental, and social impacts.
A Strategic Move for Global Sustainability Leadership
Vienna’s new role within INSTO aligns with its broader sustainability vision.
“We warmly welcome Vienna to the INSTO network,” said Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism. “By joining this global initiative This commitment to sustainability bringing value not only to individual businesses but significantly enhancing the well-being of the entire destination.”
Driving Innovation Through Dialogue and Collaboration
The city’s observatory will serve as a hub for sustainable destination development.
Norbert Kettner, CEO of Vienna Tourist Board, added: “Through the Sustainable Tourism Observatory, Vienna fosters dialogue, innovation and collective stewardship to co-create sustainable destination development, ensuring tourism enhances the quality of life for all, while preserving Vienna’s unique cultural and natural resources.”
A Model for Sustainable Urban Tourism
Vienna’s Visitor Economy Strategy is a cornerstone of this development.
Vienna’s acceptance into INSTO is closely tied to the rollout of its forward-thinking Visitor Economy Strategy. This model integrates sustainability into long-term planning, balancing the interests of residents and visitors while responsibly managing natural resources. The city explicitly embraces growth that enriches rather than diminishes its cultural and environmental identity.
Integrated Vision Through the Sustainable Tourism Observatory
Supporting Vienna’s broader innovation and climate goals.
The newly established Sustainable Tourism Observatory will be instrumental in executing Vienna’s tourism strategy. It complements the goals outlined in the Smart Climate City Strategy and the Vienna 2030 - Economy and Innovation location strategy. This initiative underscores Vienna’s role as a leader in sustainable tourism and strengthens its global reputation as an innovative travel destination.
About INSTO
A UN Tourism initiative empowering evidence-based sustainability.
The International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) supports destinations in tracking and evaluating tourism’s impacts across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. By fostering data-driven decision-making, INSTO promotes sustainable, resilient tourism development.
Discover more about Vienna’s sustainable tourism efforts by visiting the official website.