Nature Positive Tourism Partnership to Advocate for Biodiversity at COP16 in Colombia

The Nature Positive Tourism Partnership (NPTP)—comprising the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance—will present its mission to global leaders at COP16 in Cali, Colombia, aiming to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.

Established at COP15 in 2022, the NPTP unites key players across the tourism industry, including policymakers and private sector leaders, to support the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The NPTP urges governments to integrate tourism into their biodiversity goals, demonstrating how the sector can serve as a positive force for nature.

At COP26, the NPTP highlighted successful tourism-driven biodiversity initiatives in a side panel hosted by Colombia's Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism. This event showcased policies that align tourism with biodiversity conservation and demonstrated the sector's contributions to the GBF, positioning tourism as a driver of positive environmental impact.

The NPTP will also participate in the COP16 final plenary to call for stronger recognition of tourism’s potential in achieving GBF targets. Leaders like Gloria Fluxà of Iberostar and WTTC Sustainability Chair will advocate for more public-private partnerships to promote a nature-friendly tourism industry.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted tourism’s capacity as a “catalyst for positive change,” urging a commitment to a Nature Positive Travel and Tourism sector. WTTC President Julia Simpson emphasized the urgency: “The world is watching, and we must act to protect nature.”

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, added, “Our goal is not only to set new standards but to inspire through best practices, training, and stewardship that protect destinations and support community well-being for future generations.”