Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has been appointed as the UN Tourism’s Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism in the category of ‘Sport’. 

 

This prestigious recognition highlights Ben Sulayem’s significant contributions to sustainability and the burgeoning field of sports tourism.

 

Ben Sulayem's appointment underscores his dedication to integrating sustainable practices into motorsport events and his continuous efforts to support initiatives that align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said a statement.

 

Since Ben Sulayem's election as FIA President, the organization has awarded over 40 new environmental accreditations aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices in motorsport. Additionally, the FIA has achieved an 8.3% reduction in emissions per employee over the past five years. Notably, the FIA is the first sports federation to attain observer status at the UN Climate Change Conference, reinforcing its leadership in sustainability.

 

Commitment to Sustainable Tourism 

Commenting on his new role, Ben Sulayem said: “This partnership with the UN is a testament to the FIA's unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and social responsibility. By aligning our global initiatives with the UN's mission, we are not only promoting responsible travel but also setting new benchmarks for sustainability across all FIA events. Our dedication extends beyond advocacy; we are actively implementing sustainable practices, educating future generations, and driving meaningful change in the world of sports and tourism.

 

“I am honoured on behalf of the FIA to be appointed as a UN Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism. The FIA has been a trendsetter in this field across sport, mobility, and tourism. Together with our partners at the UN, I will ensure that the federation continues to focus on delivering vital sustainability solutions for all.”

 

Collaboration with UN Tourism

As part of his ambassadorial duties, Ben Sulayem signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. This MoU signifies a commitment to ongoing collaboration between the FIA and UN Tourism, aimed at advancing the understanding of sports tourism's potential and emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and social responsibility.

 

With sports recognised as one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism, this partnership will further promote sustainable practices and showcase the positive impact of sports on global tourism destinations.

 

FIA’s Strategic Goals for Sustainability

The FIA is dedicated to enhancing transparency and accountability in sustainability efforts. It works closely with its members and championships to develop competitive and sustainable practices. The organization focuses on three strategic goals: accelerating climate action towards net zero, fostering sustainable and innovative solutions, and inspiring sustainable practices. - TradeArabia News Service