A World for Travel, Paris

Wednesday 29 October 2025 16:00
Friday 31 October 2025 17:30

Google Calendar ICS

Tourism Faces Uncertainty

With climate change, energy transitions, resource scarcity, and geopolitical challenges redefining global travel, the tourism industry must act decisively. AWFT 2025 will serve as a dynamic platform to explore pragmatic strategies and visionary insights essential for transformation.

A Premier Leadership Forum

Inspired by the Davos model, AWFT 2025 unites public and private sector leaders to develop concrete, globally applicable solutions. Expect high-level discussions, strategic partnerships, and breakthrough initiatives that will redefine sustainable tourism.

Day 1: Afternoon Press event and WELCOME RECEPTION

Day 2: WELCOME AND KEYNOTE SESSIONS

9:00 – 9:30 Registration and Networking Coffee

9:30 – 9:55 Opening Remarks

09:55 – 10:10 1. KEYNOTE ADDRESS

10:10 – 10:45 2. Conversation: Beyond the Headlines, Travel’s Reaction to Global Policies & Sustainability Imperatives

The travel industry has a proven track record of resilience, having rebounded from crises ranging from terrorism and economic recessions to pandemics. But today it faces a new wave of challenges that test its adaptability on a deeper level. Beyond the Headlines will explore whether our industry’s legendary resilience is enough to withstand the current era of geopolitical upheaval and stringent sustainability demands. From the disruptive rhetoric and policies of recent years to ambitious new European Union regulations aimed at a greener future, this session moves past sensational news to examine the real impacts of these global policies on travel and tourism, and what can be done to stay ahead.

10:45 – 11:00 3. KEYNOTE – Tourism in a Decentered World: Building Stability Through Collective Experience

This presentation acknowledges the decline of singular global leadership and the rise of multipolar cooperations and hence, the opportunities that are in abundance.

11:00 – 11:45 4. Points of Light: Crisis Proof Leadership

In an era of climate extremes and global uncertainty, a new generation of leaders in aviation, hospitality, destination management or consultancy are shining through as beams of light exhibiting crisis proof leadership skills. We see visionary ministers, corporate executives, and government officials who have pioneered sustainability initiatives in tourism proving that responsible travel can thrive even in the toughest times. This high-level panel will celebrate inspiring success stories from around the world (with highlights from Costa Rica, Saudi Arabia and Oman) and unpack how these leaders capitalized on sustainable opportunities. Whether facing climate disasters, geopolitical upheavals, or economic shocks, these trailblazers adapted and innovated to keep tourism both sustainable and resilient. Attendees will hear how bold sustainability commitments from green energy investments to community partnerships have future-proofed destinations and businesses. The tone is optimistic and forward-thinking, expect practical insights, candid leadership lessons, and solution-driven dialogue that empowers.

11:45 – 12:30 5. Unusual Suspects Providing Opportunity In Uncertain Times from Outer space to Deep Ocean

The travel industry can benefit from science and technology’s advancements. This session explores four key sectors whose efforts can be informative and inspirational in driving new collaborations improving sustainability: science and aerospace; deep ocean and marine; biodiversity and climate science and technology and sustainability. What about the effects of rare earth mineral harvesting by land and by sea? Open data sets, collaborative projects and emerging innovations will be shared that travel stakeholders can leverage for better destination management.

12:30 - 2:00 LUNCH BREAK

2:00 – 2:40 6. Sustainability Under Attack/ DEI Dead or Alive?

Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have experienced significant shifts globally, influenced by political, social and economic factors. While some organizations have scaled back or rebranded their DEI efforts, others continue to uphold and adapt. Who is doing what and why?

2:40 – 3:25 7. Mega Events Leading Sustainability Efforts

Mega events such as the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup and major music festivals, like Glastonbury are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact and enhance engagement with host destinations. While significant strides have been made challenges persist, particularly due to the emissions generated from international travel and infrastructure development. We will hear how future events are exploring alternative hosting models and the continued innovation and commitment to sustainability is needed to address ongoing challenges and balance economic gain with zero carbon goals.

3:25 – 4:10 8. Technology Driving Awareness, Distribution and Profitability

Across the travel industry, aviation, hospitality, tour operators and booking platforms, we see more and more companies embracing sustainable technologies that indicate an industry wide shift. Fuel-efficient flight algorithms, smart hotel systems, virtual tours, and transparent booking platforms allow travelers to make greener choices often with immediate cost savings or revenue growth for businesses. Sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand, our case studies show how airlines save fuel costs with AI and SAF, hotels cut utility costs with IoT and AI, tour operators drive loyalty and platforms boost engagement.

4:10 – 4:30 BREAK

4:30 – 5:10 9. The Rise of Sustainable Transport: rail, aviation, maritime

As climate imperatives reshape the global travel industry, the pressure to decarbonize transport is transforming how we move across the planet. This session explores the accelerating momentum behind sustainable mobility—from electric aviation and biofuels to rail revival, maritime innovation, and low-impact ground transport.

Leaders in infrastructure, policy, and private enterprise will share how their sectors are responding to rising demand for greener travel and new consumer expectations. Discussions will address emissions targets, cross-border transport corridors, port and airport innovation, and the need for integrated systems that connect people and places efficiently—without compromising the environment. Discover how air, land, and sea transport are converging in a new era of climate-smart connectivity, and what it will take for destinations to future-proof their mobility systems while enhancing traveller experience.

5:10 – 5:30 10. Enhancing Travel transformation through AI and new skills

Artificial intelligence is not just reshaping how travel is marketed and managed—it’s redefining the entire visitor journey. From predictive analytics and personalized itineraries to operational automation and dynamic pricing, AI is revolutionizing the business of travel. But with this technological leap comes a critical human challenge: re-skilling the global tourism workforce to thrive alongside intelligent systems.

This session will explore how AI is driving transformation across airlines, hospitality, DMOs, and ground services—and what skills are needed to lead this change. Panelists will examine how destinations and companies can balance digital innovation with human connection, ensuring that the workforce remains adaptive, inclusive, and empowered in an AI-augmented future. We’ll discuss how the intersection of technology and talent can unlock a more resilient, responsive, and personalized travel ecosystem.

5:30 – 6:00 11. Tourism as a Bridge in a Rebalancing World

A conversation with the audience, at the end of day one we will ask questions, gather comments and feedback from the audience regarding the content of the day with specific focus on this year’s theme of a world rebalancing.

6:00 – 8:00 Free time in Saint Germain des Près

8:00 – 11:00 GALA DINNER

DAY 2

9:15 - 9:20 Call To Order

9:20 – 9:30 SPOTLIGHT

9:30 – 10:15 12. Luxury Experiences Leading Sustainability Efforts

The overarching message across airlines, cruises, tour operators, ground transport, DMCs, and DMOs is that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive, they are increasingly complementary. From 2024 onwards, we see global travel industry leaders integrating carbon neutrality, eco-friendly design, responsible tourism practices, regenerative efforts, and community engagement into high-end travel offerings. We will discuss how these initiatives by sector show a clear path: the luxury travel of tomorrow is defined by conscience and innovation. Travelers can expect not only the finest comforts and service, but also the peace of mind that their journey supports the well-being of destinations and communities. This alignment of luxury with sustainability is fast becoming the new normal, setting the stage for a more equitable and eco-conscious era of travel.

10:15 – 10:55 13. Practical Strategies for Advancing Sustainable Travel

What does it take to turn sustainability from an ambition into action? This fast paced, 40-minute workshop will equip destinations and travel providers with practical tools to implement sustainable travel practices across their organizations or destinations. Through interactive discussion and applied examples, speakers will explore key actions including:

· Reducing carbon emissions through smarter transport and logistics

· Supporting local economies via community-based tourism

· Measuring and communicating sustainability impact

· Embedding sustainability into product design

· Engaging suppliers and partners to create a shared impact chain

10:55 – 11:15 MORNING COFFEE AND NETWORKING

11:15 – 11:55 14. Climate Change Actions Exhibited by Destinations

Across the globe, destinations are stepping up with innovative strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change – from decarbonizing operations and protecting biodiversity to transforming supply chains and community resilience. This session will highlight real world climate action from leading destinations and associations showcasing scalable practices that align tourism growth with environmental responsibility.

11:55 – 12:15 15. SPOTLIGHT

12:15 – 13:00 16. Industry Leaders Responding to Climate Change

As climate change accelerates, the travel and tourism sector stands at a pivotal crossroads. From rising sea levels and extreme weather to shifting traveler expectations and regulatory pressure, the need for urgent, coordinated climate action is clear. In this session, global industry leaders—from airlines and hospitality to destinations and DMOs—share how they are moving from commitments to concrete implementation.

Panelists will explore strategies to reduce emissions, adapt infrastructure, and invest in climate resilience while maintaining competitiveness and community value. Discussions will include decarbonization of operations, waste management, bio-fuels, sustainable destination planning, climate risk assessments, and the growing importance of climate transparency in investment and marketing. How travel leaders are navigating climate realities with vision, accountability, and a deep sense of shared responsibility.

13:00 - 2:00 LUNCH BREAK

2:00 - 2:45 17. Sustainable Marketing Strategies to Reach the Conscious Traveler

As traveller awareness around sustainability grows, their desires to book travel accordingly are still not reflected in their booking patterns. The responsibility to communicate about it authentically -and effectively -has never been greater. This session dives into how destinations and travel suppliers can build sustainable marketing strategies that are not only credible and compelling, but also inclusive of the many dimensions of sustainability: environmental, cultural, social and economic. Why do so many communications agencies and marketing teams still hesitate to lead with sustainability and how we can shift that narrative. Expect sharp insights from creative leaders, real world campaigns and a candid look at what it takes to tell sustainability stories without greenwashing or simplification.

2:45 – 3:30 18. Regenerative Travel, Expanding Sustainable Luxury

Sustainability in travel is evolving—but into what? While some see regenerative travel as a natural progression from sustainability, others argue it demands a radical paradigm shift. This tension is especially visible in luxury travel, where guests have the time and means to engage deeply. Regenerative initiatives might involve travelers aiding scientists in data collection, participating in reforestation, or choosing resorts that invest profits into landscape restoration. The idea is that travel can leave a net positive impact. Regenerative tourism engages travelers in projects that sustain cultural and natural heritage while fostering community connections. Travel companies are responding by designing itineraries around such impactful moments. The net effect is a shift in mindset: rather than being passive consumers of paradise, luxury guests become partners in its renewal. This is a profound change from the old luxury ethos, and it’s becoming a defining element of high-end travel. Yet beneath all these actions lies a fundamental debate: Can regeneration be standardized—or does true transformation resist rigid frameworks?

3:30 – 4:15 19. Gen Z and education: GTTP and WTTC enhancing Students involvement

A joint partnership between the World Travel and Tourism Council and the GTTP young students around the world and build knowledge and enthusiasm for their future in the travel industry. We will hear inspiring stories from the students themselves and share the activities of the GTTP with an aim to furthering their presence in more schools.