Round Table discussion “Tourism and Environmental Challenges”

April 22 – Earth Day is a global celebration that brings together millions of people around the values of environmental protection, sustainable development, and responsible stewardship of our planet.

The world is undergoing a phase of systemic transformation, driven by planetary-scale challenges – from climate change to the escalation of military conflicts, which have a devastating impact on ecosystems. For decades, tourism has been perceived primarily as a leisure industry. Today, however, it is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for sustainable development, environmental education, and territorial regeneration.

 

In the context of the full-scale war in Ukraine – which has caused extensive environmental damage, destroyed conservation infrastructure, and limited access to protected natural areas – there is an urgent need to rethink the role of tourism. Its potential lies not only in the restoration of affected territories but also in fostering ecological awareness, mobilizing local communities, and strengthening cultural identity through a renewed connection with nature.

 

Dear colleagues and friends, we warmly invite you to take part in the Round Table discussion “Tourism and Environmental Challenges”, which aims to foster a comprehensive, critical, and constructive dialogue about the current challenges facing the Ukrainian tourism sector. The conversation will explore these issues through the lens of global climate trends, local sustainable development initiatives, the environmental consequences of war, and the potential for interdisciplinary cooperation among science, practice, and digital innovation.

Program with a link to the meeting