Manchester is currently ranked 35th in the GDS-Index, placing it in the Top 40 destinations globally and making it the highest-performing city in England.
The Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) is an international programme that helps cities measure and improve how sustainable they are as destinations for visitors, events and business tourism. It assesses areas including environmental performance, social impact, community wellbeing and destination management, helping cities identify opportunities to become more responsible and sustainable places to visit. The GDS-Index is designed to support destinations on their sustainability journey by measuring performance and providing practical recommendations for improvement.
Greater Manchester is proud to be recognised as one of the world's leading sustainable destinations.
Why is this Important?
The GDS-Index is more than a ranking. It helps destinations track progress, share good practice and create positive benefits for residents, visitors and businesses.
For visitors, this means choosing a destination that is working to:
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Reduce its environmental impact
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Support responsible and sustainable tourism
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Strengthen local communities
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Create positive social and economic benefits
How Manchester is Taking Action
Improving Greater Manchester's sustainability performance is a key part of the Greater Manchester Visitor Economy Strategy 2025-2030.
Through initiatives led by Marketing Manchester and partners across the city-region, we are helping tourism and events become more sustainable while continuing to grow a vibrant, welcoming destination. This includes supporting businesses to adopt more sustainable practices, encouraging responsible visitor experiences and promoting Greater Manchester as a destination that values people, place and planet.
How You Can Help
Every visitor can play a part in supporting a more sustainable Greater Manchester. During your visit, consider using public transport, walking or cycling where possible, supporting local independent businesses and reducing waste - small choices can make a big difference.
Looking Ahead
Sustainability is a journey, and the GDS-Index helps us measure our progress along the way. By working together with businesses, communities and visitors, Greater Manchester is building a visitor economy that is not only successful, but also more sustainable, responsible and beneficial for future generations.
