Tourism stakeholders to focus on green investments

Panaji: Green investment in the tourism sector will take centre stage on World Tourism Day, with more than 500 stakeholders expected to participate in the deliberations.

Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) in collaboration with SKAL Goa and Goa Tourism will host a series of events to mark the occasion on September 27.

Stakeholders will also discuss key issues plaguing the sector and attempt to arrive at solutions at the event.

“Green investments in the tourism industry are crucial as we move farther away from the pandemic, as many consumer preferences have shifted to become more eco-friendly,” said TTAG president Nilesh Shah.

United Nations World Tourism Organisation, the global body, has identified tourism and green investments as the theme for this year’s World Tourism Day.

United Nations World Tourism Organisation has identified investments as one of the key priorities for tourism’s recovery and future growth and development. It highlights the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, for the planet and for prosperity.

“Green investments in tourism support cultural heritage preservation and responsible tourism, safeguarding and showcasing a destination’s distinct cultural treasures, which in turn enriches local communities,” said Jack Ajit Sukhija, TTAG vice-president — North Goa.

The World Tourism Day events will kick off with a heritage walk in Campal led by Make-it-Happen Tours, which will see participation of over 150 students from hospitality management colleges.

A boat cruise has also been organised by the Rotary club along the Mandovi for children with disabilities.