Hanoi wins “Sustainable Tourism” Award at TPO 2025

THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi was honored with the “Sustainable Tourism” Award at the Tourism Promotion Organization for Global Cities (TPO) Best Awards 2025 on the evening of September 5, reaffirming the capital’s reputation as a responsible and forward-looking travel destination.

The accolade was presented during the 12th TPO General Assembly in Ho Chi Minh City, which runs until September 6 and brings together some 300 delegates from global cities, tourism authorities, and industry leaders under the theme “Shaping the Future of Tourism: Towards Digital Transformation and Greening.

According to the Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of the  Hanoi Department of Tourism, the recognition in the “Sustainable Tourism” category highlights the capital’s ongoing efforts to promote green initiatives and community-based tourism development.

For years, the capital has encouraged local tourism businesses to cut down on single-use plastics, introduced waste-sorting and multilingual signage at cultural sites, and developed eco- and community-based tourism products designed to protect the environment while fostering inclusive economic growth.

The city also organizes public awareness campaigns such as “Green Sunday”, promoting environmental responsibility among both residents and visitors.

“Through these sustainable tourism initiatives, Hanoi is not only enhancing the visitor experience but also strengthening international partnerships, opening new avenues for collaboration, and showcasing itself as a thousand-year-old capital committed to modern, responsible, and globally integrated development,” said Dang Huong Giang, Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism.

Launched in 2013, the TPO Best Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in tourism among member cities and organizations. The 2025 edition introduced updated categories aligned with global trends in digital transformation, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles, inclusive development, and intercity cooperation.

The “Sustainable Tourism” Award recognizes cities that demonstrate best practices in green tourism initiatives, community-based tourism that engages local stakeholders, inclusive travel experiences, and efforts to cut carbon emissions through renewable energy and circular economy projects.

Winning cities, including Hanoi, are being spotlighted at the General Assembly, gaining international visibility and fresh opportunities to strengthen networks with global partners.

By embracing sustainable practices while preserving its cultural heritage, Hanoi is setting an example for cities worldwide that seek to develop tourism in balance with the planet and its people.