Tourism and hospitality contribute an estimated US$11.7 trillion, equivalent to 10.3% of global GDP, support one in ten jobs worldwide and generated US$1.9 trillion in international tourism exports in 2024.

However, the sector also accounts for an estimated 6% to 9% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Nature-based tourism alone is expected to generate US$665 billion by 2037.

The SMI is bringing together governments, tourism and hotel groups, airlines, cruise operators, infrastructure and energy providers, investors, local businesses and digital platforms to make sustainable tourism the default model for growth, protect natural assets and deliver measurable economic value for businesses and local communities.