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GDS-Movement and ETC urge destinations to get ahead of new EU Green Rules

GDS-Movement and ETC launch white paper to guide destinations on EU sustainability regulations, ensuring compliance, risk mitigation, and new business opportunities. FRANKFURT – The Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) and the European Travel Commission (ETC) launched a white paper, A Destination's Guide to the New EU Sustainability Regulations, at IMEX Frankfurt 2025. It aims to help destinations in the tourism and events industry better prepare for significant upcoming regulatory changes. Being prepared will support companies with sustainability compliance, negative environmental impact reduction, reputational damage mitigation, financial and legal immunity, and new business opportunities. With the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (ECGTD), and the Green Claims Directive (GCD) coming into effect, the message is clear: 'Proactive destinations can lead by example while honouring the new regulations', as Guy Bigwood, CEO, GDS-Movement said. The new directives will require greater transparency, accountability, and stricter management of sustainability claims, reshaping how destination management organisations and event associations operate and communicate their environmental impacts. These regulations apply not only to destinations and businesses within Europe, but to any organisation operating in the EU market, including global accommodation platforms and digital intermediaries. This white paper was launched to help National Tourism Organisations (NTOs), Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) and the wider tourism and events industry navigate these changes and offers a roadmap, outlining practical steps to achieving compliance, managing risks, and seizing new opportunities. It also provides guidance on updated sustainability reporting and compliant communication strategies to help organisations navigate the evolving legislative landscape with confidence. 'This is not just about compliance – it's about leadership and new scope,' Bigwood commented. 'Destinations that act now will build trust, enhance their reputations, and be better-positioned for long-term success.' The white paper highlights three key actions: Understanding the roles and responsibilities involved in complying with the new EU directives Practical steps for aligning with the regulations, marketing claims, and destination management strategies How to tackle the risks of non-compliance and the opportunities of early adoption, such as improved reputation, new funding channels, and enhanced visitor trust One key opportunity is the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSME), a simplified ESG reporting framework developed by the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG). Although voluntary, this process can help DMOs that are SMEs access additional green financing, improve risk management, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. 'Sustainability is now a key factor in how destinations are viewed and engaged with,' added Eduardo Santander, CEO of ETC. 'NTOs and DMOs are in a unique position to lead the way, helping local businesses and stakeholders navigate the shift to more responsible, responsive tourism. With new EU rules on the horizon, it's essential they stay ahead of the curve and set the example for others to follow', he said. Page 1 / 25 Zoom 100%