For (DP), Luxembourg’s minister for the economy, SMEs, energy and tourism, this sustainable tourism concept “marks an important step in the evolution of the tourism offering, placing the principles of sustainability at the heart of its development.” The aim is both to contribute to climate objectives and to shape quality tourism that respects people and nature and strengthens the local economy. Part of the national tourism strategy and the National Plan for Sustainable Development 2030, the project is aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is based on four “essential” pillars--ecological, social, cultural and economic--which aim to preserve natural resources, strengthen social inclusion, enhance cultural heritage and guarantee the economic sustainability of tourism players and related sectors. “With an ambitious vision, it aims to position Luxembourg as a sustainable and authentic destination, attractive to residents, cross-border commuters and international visitors alike,” sums up the minister.
Sustainability an important criterion for three out of four tourists
It’s an ambition that meets the aspirations of residents and cross-border commuters. Just under three-quarters (72%) of them believe that sustainability is an essential component of any offer. And 79% of them would like to see it developed. These figures are in line with international tourists, 75% of whom want to adopt more sustainable travel practices, according to data from Booking.com. In 2024, 29% of international visitors chose to travel to the grand duchy by train, bus or bicycle.
But there’s no concept without a structured approach. Sustainable tourism made in Luxembourg therefore introduces one, including objective indicators to measure the progress made and a clear framework to guide and encourage projects and thus support the players in the sector in their transition towards more responsible, forward-looking tourism. This approach has been developed in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Regional Tourist Offices (ORT), the Luxembourg City Tourist Office (LCTO), Luxembourg for Tourism (LFT), as well as external experts and representatives of nature parks. A participatory process, including a workshop with 60 participants in February 2024, helped to identify priorities and key actions for a comprehensive and inclusive approach.
Turnkey roadmap for professionals
As a result, professionals are being offered a roadmap and strategic options based on three key areas.
The first is sustainable management. From now on, sustainability criteria will be integrated into tourism subsidies. Luxembourg’s national statistics bureau Statec will be developing a series of indicators to measure CO2 emissions from tourism. The second area is sustainable tourism. This includes improving the connectivity of tourist sites through environmentally-friendly mobility, and optimising the Luxembourg Ecolabel, which currently has 45 certified establishments. The third strand of action will focus on raising visitor awareness of practices that protect and preserve the environment.
“With this concept, we will be taking our efforts to promote high-quality, sustainable tourism one step further, by proposing concrete actions that will actively contribute to climate objectives. It reflects our commitment to preserving the beauty and uniqueness of our country while offering a quality tourism offering that respects the environment and benefits all our residents, visitors and local economic players,” concluded the minister. “The concept will position Luxembourg as a sustainable and authentic destination at the heart of Europe. We also aspire to an inclusive tourism that is aligned with our sustainability objectives and plays a key role in strengthening the local economy. This concept provides a structured approach, with objective criteria for measuring our progress. It also provides a clear framework for developing sustainable projects that will benefit all those involved. It’s a real driving force for improving the quality of life and the quality of stay, in harmony with our natural and cultural heritage.”
This article was originally published in .