The Zagreb County Tourist Board has taken a decisive step towards the future of tourism, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development in Croatia. By signing the prestigious Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, this institution has become the first in the country to formally join the global movement for the transformation of the tourism industry. With this act, the famous "green ring" of the capital city not only confirms its commitment to preserving natural resources but also sets new, high standards of responsible destination management for the entire region.

This strategic move is the result of an almost year-long process of aligning local plans and activities with rigorous international standards. As pointed out by Ivana Alilović, director of the Zagreb County Tourist Board, signing the declaration represents the crown of past efforts and a strong incentive for future projects. "This success is another confirmation that we are on the right path towards a sustainable future for tourism. Every time we succeed, we know that the effort has paid off, but also that there is still a lot of work ahead of us. Sustainability needs to be lived every day," emphasized Alilović, summarizing a philosophy that goes beyond merely meeting formal criteria and becomes an integral part of daily operations.

What exactly is the Glasgow Declaration?

Launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021, the Glasgow Declaration represents the most significant global call to action for climate sustainability within the tourism sector. Its importance is comparable to the Paris Agreement, but it is specifically tailored to the challenges and opportunities of the tourism industry which, according to estimates, generates a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions. To date, the declaration has been signed by more than 860 organizations from 90 countries, creating a unified front committed to ambitious, science-based targets: to halve emissions by 2030 and achieve complete climate neutrality (Net Zero) by 2050 at the latest.

The declaration is not just a wish list; it provides a clear and structured framework for action based on five key pillars:

• Measurement: Signatories commit to transparently measuring and publicly reporting all tourism-related emissions, using harmonized methodologies.


• Decarbonisation: Developing and implementing science-based plans to reduce emissions in all segments of tourism – from transport and accommodation to gastronomy and waste management.


• Regeneration: Investing in the protection and restoration of ecosystems, thereby strengthening their ability to absorb carbon, protecting biodiversity, and securing food and water supplies. This pillar goes beyond mere sustainability and strives for a regenerative approach – leaving the destination in a better state for future generations.


• Collaboration: Actively sharing knowledge, best practices, and solutions among all stakeholders in tourism to accelerate the collective transition.


• Finance: Securing adequate financial resources to implement the planned measures, including investments in green technologies, education, and research.

Specific commitments and vision for Zagreb County

By signing this document, the Zagreb County Tourist Board has committed to creating and, more importantly, implementing a detailed action plan. This plan will not be just a piece of paper, but a living document that will guide all future activities. The focus will be on reducing the carbon footprint of the entire tourism offer, preserving priceless natural resources, and, crucially, actively involving the local community in the green transition. This includes encouraging the use of renewable energy sources in accommodation facilities, promoting short supply chains and local family farms, developing a network of cycling and hiking trails as an alternative to motorized transport, and implementing smart waste and water resource management systems. It is precisely such a comprehensive approach that ensures that accommodation in Zagreb County becomes synonymous with a responsible holiday.

The goal is to create a tourism that does not deplete resources but contributes to their renewal. This is the core of regenerative tourism, a concept that Zagreb County is strongly embracing with this move. It is no longer just about reducing negative impact, but about creating a positive contribution to the environment and society. Visitors who choose a holiday in this region thus become partners in preserving its beauty and authenticity.

A pioneering step as a guide for Croatian tourism

Zagreb County is already recognized as a destination that fosters sustainability, as evidenced by the international Green Destinations certificate. Numerous nature parks, from Žumberak to Medvednica, the wine roads of Plešivica and Zelina, and the rich cultural heritage of Turopolje and Moslavina are the foundations of an offer that attracts an increasing number of guests eager for an authentic experience and an escape from mass tourism. Signing the Glasgow Declaration is a logical continuation of this strategy, strengthening the county's brand as a leader in green tourism. Guests seeking peace and untouched nature can explore diverse options for a holiday and accommodation in Zagreb County, knowing that their stay supports sustainable development.

This pioneering act by the Zagreb County Tourist Board has the potential to resonate far beyond the county's borders. It serves as an example and inspiration to other destinations in Croatia, showing that aligning with global climate goals is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic advantage. In a world where environmentally conscious travelers make up an increasingly large and affluent market segment, destinations that prove their commitment to sustainability will be more competitive and resilient to future challenges. This ensures not only the protection of the environment but also the long-term economic stability and prosperity of local communities that depend on tourism. Numerous rural idylls and modern holiday homes offer the perfect escape to the green ring of Zagreb, combining comfort with a responsible approach to nature.