The white paper on Eco-Tourism for Climate Resilience explores the growing significance of eco-tourism as a sustainable approach to mitigating climate change impacts while promoting conservation and economic development. Tourism plays a crucial role in global economic growth, cultural exchange, and employment generation, but its rapid expansion has led to environmental concerns such as carbon emissions, habitat destruction, and resource depletion. At the same time, tourism itself is increasingly vulnerable to climate change, with rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and shifting seasons, altering travel patterns and threatening key destinations. 

Recognizing this dual challenge, the Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change (QNDCC) 2024, co-hosted by the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, explored the role of eco-tourism in fostering climate resilience. The discussions highlighted the need for adaptive strategies to counteract the adverse effects of climate change on tourism while positioning eco-tourism as a viable solution. Nature-based solutions such as mangrove restoration, marine conservation, and biodiversity protection emerged as key interventions to support climate resilience. Additionally, integrating cultural heritage into eco-tourism was emphasized as a means to enrich visitor experiences while preserving traditional knowledge and historical sites. The white paper also underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in developing sustainable tourism infrastructure, ensuring that both economic and environmental interests are aligned. Qatar’s unique natural and cultural assets, combined with its policy frameworks such as Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, position the country as a potential leader in sustainable tourism. By prioritizing eco-tourism, Qatar can diversify its economy while promoting responsible travel practices that support long-term environmental sustainability and social well-being.