Adelaide has achieved a remarkable milestone by being crowned the Most Improved Destination in the 2025 Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) awards. This recognition propels South Australia’s capital into the global spotlight as a pioneer in eco-friendly tourism, sustainable urban development, and green business events.
The city debuted in the GDS-Index, an international benchmark assessing destinations on more than 300 indicators across 76 criteria. Adelaide ranked 54th in its first year—an impressive result that secured its award for fastest progress in global sustainability standards.
Positioning Adelaide as a Global Climate Hub
The announcement comes as Adelaide actively campaigns to host COP31, the United Nations climate change conference. If successful, it would be a historic moment for the Asia-Pacific region and underscore Adelaide’s ambition to become a global sustainability hub.
Damien Kitto, Chief Executive Officer of Business Events Adelaide, said the GDS-Index had provided a “valuable mirror” of Adelaide’s strengths and areas for improvement. “We see this as a starting point, not the finish line. Our goal is continuous improvement and to showcase Adelaide’s progress to the world,” Kitto emphasized.
Sustainability at the Core of Urban Development
Adelaide has long been known as the “city in a park,” with a stunning ring of green space encircling its central business district. This natural design has become a defining feature of its sustainable tourism appeal.
The city’s broader strategy includes investments in renewable energy, circular economy practices, and climate-resilient infrastructure. South Australia already generates over 70% of its electricity from wind and solar, and Adelaide is committed to achieving net zero emissions well before 2050.
Emma Terry, Chief Executive of the South Australian Tourism Commission, praised the city’s holistic approach: “Adelaide is proving that tourism growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. We want every visitor to experience our natural beauty in a way that protects it for future generations.”
Adelaide Convention Centre Leads the Way
One of Adelaide’s shining stars in sustainability is the Adelaide Convention Centre (ACC). The venue was the first in the world to achieve EarthCheck Master status, the highest level of certification in sustainable event management. Its practices include advanced waste reduction, energy efficiency, and carbon offset initiatives.
Sarah Goldfinch, General Manager of the ACC, said: “Sustainability is embedded in everything we do. Hosting events that align with green values isn’t just about today’s guests—it’s about creating a legacy for the city.”
A Model of Collaboration
Adelaide’s achievements reflect a powerful collaboration between government, business, and community stakeholders. Greg Ratsch, General Manager of the Adelaide Economic Development Agency, credited the city’s success to its united approach: “Innovation happens here because people and organizations are willing to work together toward shared sustainability goals.”
This collaboration strengthens Adelaide’s credentials not only as a tourism destination but also as a forward-thinking city shaping global conversations about climate and sustainability.
Sustainable Tourism Experiences for Visitors
Adelaide is rapidly becoming a magnet for eco-conscious travelers who want more than just a holiday—they want experiences that minimize their impact while maximizing cultural and natural immersion.
Eco-Friendly Accommodation
From luxury retreats to off-grid tiny houses, Adelaide offers a wide array of eco-friendly accommodation options. On nearby Kangaroo Island, eco-lodges combine luxury with solar-powered facilities and water-saving systems. Yorke Peninsula’s Bayside Glamping Tiny House gives visitors an off-grid experience, blending modern comforts with sustainability.
Sustainable Dining
The city’s culinary scene is equally green. Adelaide’s renowned Central Market supports farmers who grow organic and seasonal produce, reducing food miles and supporting local agriculture. Across the city, restaurants highlight paddock-to-plate dining, offering menus that celebrate South Australia’s fresh seafood, wine, and organic produce.
Eco-Tourism Adventures
Adelaide also excels in eco-tourism and wildlife encounters. Operators such as pureSA offer guided tours of conservation parks, beaches, and wine regions with a focus on sustainability education. Tourists can kayak through mangrove forests, hike the Adelaide Hills, or explore Cleland Wildlife Park, where conservation is central to the visitor experience.
Business and Community Support
The city is also empowering small businesses to become greener. The Small Business Sustainability Support Program offers workshops and expert consultations, helping operators reduce energy use, adopt renewable technology, and market themselves as eco-friendly providers. This program ensures that sustainability is woven into every level of the local economy.
Looking Ahead: Adelaide’s Ambitions
With the possibility of hosting COP31, Adelaide is aiming for more than accolades. The city envisions itself as a model for other destinations seeking to balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship. Hosting a global climate summit would provide Adelaide with an international stage to showcase its achievements and to encourage knowledge exchange between global leaders and local innovators.
Damien Kitto summed up the city’s aspirations: “Our work doesn’t end with this award. It begins here. We want Adelaide to be recognized not only as Australia’s greenest city but also as one of the world’s leading examples of sustainable tourism and business events.”
Conclusion
Adelaide’s recognition as the Most Improved Destination in the 2025 GDS-Index is more than an award—it is validation of a long-term strategy that integrates sustainability into every aspect of city life. From green urban planning and renewable energy leadership to eco-friendly tourism experiences and international event hosting, Adelaide is redefining what it means to be a modern, responsible destination.
As travelers increasingly seek destinations aligned with their values, Adelaide’s balance of innovation, culture, and environmental stewardship ensures it stands out as one of the most exciting sustainable tourism destinations in the world.
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