Speakers

This panel explores innovative approaches to sustainable tourism, focusing on local empowerment and environmental preservation. From transforming ranching into conservation in Torres del Paine to eco-plastic accommodations in Chile, participants will discover practical solutions for sustainable practices. The discussion also highlights Antarctica21’s responsible Antarctic tourism and the transformative Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia programme, addressing challenges and opportunities in conservation and nature tourism development.

This panel highlights the vital role of sustainable tourism in preserving ecosystems and supporting communities. Topics include a 40-year assessment of Catalonia’s Marine Reserve of Les Illes Medes, the socio-environmental resilience of Mexico’s San Crisanto Mangroves, and Peru’s Tingo María National Park’s conservation efforts. Chilean Patagonia’s portal communities will showcase their approach to integrating local participation with conservation strategies, emphasizing the balance between nature protection and community empowerment.

This panel explores how sustainable tourism drives community transformation and biodiversity preservation. Highlights include the pioneering efforts of an ancestral Argentine Puna village, regenerative cultural tourism in Mexico, and the sustainable development of a capital city. The session also delves into the integration of tourism and conservation along the iconic Route of the Patagonian Parks, showcasing innovative strategies to harmonize cultural heritage preservation with environmental stewardship.

This panel showcases innovative approaches to sustainability adopted by leading tourism destinations worldwide. Speakers will share success stories and strategies for balancing environmental conservation, community well-being, and economic growth. From implementing green initiatives to fostering international collaborations, the session highlights practical solutions and forward-thinking policies that redefine sustainable tourism. Attendees will gain insights into replicable models and emerging trends that empower destinations to lead in responsible and impactful tourism practices.

This panel highlights Chile’s commitment to sustainable tourism through conservation and innovative practices. Presentations include exploring Patagonia’s hidden gems like Alato Palena and the Laguna de Los Cisnes Natural Monument, transforming the “Ruta de los Seismiles” into a sustainable destination, and the success of Nahuelbuta in the Green Destinations Top 100. Additionally, insights into Torres del Paine’s municipal tourism ordinance demonstrate how good governance supports nature conservation and community-focused tourism development.

This panel explores innovative approaches to sustainability in tourism, focusing on climate action and green energy. Presentations include insights from the Green Hydrogen Accelerator, Punta Arenas’ Climate Action Plan, and Explora’s conservation-focused exploration of remote territories. Additionally, the role of state policies in creating conditions for sustainable tourism development highlights how strategic governance supports environmental stewardship and economic growth in the tourism sector. Together, these discussions pave the way for a greener tourism future.

This panel highlights initiatives that empower local communities through sustainable tourism and cultural heritage preservation. Discussions include insights from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, a community-based tourism model in Mexico’s Mayan communities, and the empowerment of indigenous women in agrobiodiversity conservation. Additionally, the panel explores how cultural tourism fosters a virtuous circle of prosperity and conservation, showcasing successful strategies for integrating community well-being with environmental stewardship.

This panel explores the power of partnerships in advancing sustainable tourism. Highlights include Los Órganos’ destination approach to building alliances for effective destination management, the role of certification programs in driving development projects, and the connection between tourism and mental health. Additionally, Travolution showcases how aligning communities with sustainability fosters holistic destination development. Together, these presentations demonstrate how collaboration and innovative strategies create meaningful progress in sustainable tourism.

This panel highlights innovative approaches to sustainable development in Southern Patagonia. Topics include the “Patagonia Circular” initiative, the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund’s impactful tourism model for protected areas, and the role of scientific outreach in conservation and sustainable tourism. Additionally, the session explores transformative practices shifting from livestock to conservation in Torres del Paine, showcasing collective efforts to ensure a thriving and sustainable future for the region.

This panel highlights cutting-edge practices and trends shaping responsible tourism across Latin America. Topics include Chile’s sustainable tourism initiatives, Peru’s successful experiences in promoting sustainability, and key insights into emerging tourism trends across the region. Additionally, the Asociación Colombiana de Turismo Responsable shares its impactful work in fostering responsible tourism practices. Together, these presentations provide a comprehensive look at innovative strategies driving sustainability and community development in Latin America.

This panel highlights the inspiring efforts of Chilean destinations participating in Green Destinations Programs. Presentations showcase innovative approaches to sustainability, from preserving natural and cultural heritage to implementing green practices that drive tourism development. Discover how these destinations are leading the way in advancing sustainable tourism, fostering community involvement, and protecting the environment, setting an example for responsible and impactful tourism in Chile and beyond.

This panel explores the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and collaboration in tourism and energy. Presentations highlight public-private partnerships as a foundation for sustainable tourism, cutting-edge research at the UCSC Energy Centre on high-efficiency catalytic hydrogenation, and visionary approaches to building a more sustainable future. Together, these discussions showcase how collaboration and innovative energy solutions drive progress toward a greener and more resilient tourism industry.

The grand finale of GD2024, celebrating milestones and looking to the future. Highlights include a special presentation on Puerto Natales’ success as the WFTA’s international culinary capital and its impact on sustainability. The host organization, SERNATUR Magallanes, will deliver closing remarks, reflecting on the event’s achievements. Finally, Green Destinations will make exciting announcements about the hosts for the 2025 Green Destinations Conferences.