Gdańsk has made a significant leap forward in sustainable destination development, climbing 15 positions in the 2025 Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index). The city now ranks 64th out of 81 destinations worldwide, with an overall score of 53.4% – an impressive 17.68% increase compared to 2024.
Gdansk`s strong progress across key GDS-Index categories
The GDS-Index measures destinations against 76 indicators across four categories: environment, society, suppliers and destination management. This year’s results demonstrate that Gdańsk is building strength particularly in environmental policies and destination management, while also identifying areas for further improvement.
- Environment – 63% (up 16 positions)
- Social – 58% (down 2 positions, though still strong)
- Supplier – 22% (up 5 positions, remains the biggest challenge)
- Destination Management (DMO) – 60% (up 12 positions)
These results clearly show that Gdańsk is moving in the right direction. We are steadily improving our environmental performance and destination management policies, while recognising the need to involve more hotels, restaurants, venues and event suppliers. Sustainability is a long-term journey, and each year we are taking important steps forward.
Poland on the sustainability map
This year’s Index has also brought important achievements for other Polish destinations. Kraków was recognised among the Top 3 Most Improved Destinations 2025, while Szczecin is preparing to host the GDS-Forum & Impact Day 2026 – the first time this global sustainability event will take place in Poland. Wrocław also continues to strengthen its position in the Index.
Together, these successes confirm that Poland is becoming an increasingly visible player on the global sustainability map, with cities working collectively to make the meetings and events industry more responsible, resilient and future-oriented.
Read also:
- Workshop in Gdansk “Regenerating Polish Destinations: Sustainable Tourism in Action”
- What are GDS-Movement and GDS-Index?
- GDS-Movement Announces Finalists for the 2024 GDS-Awards, Including Gdańsk for Most Improved Destination
source: Gdansk Convention Bureau
