Nepal Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi has said that Nepal is clearly demonstrating its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism development.

Speaking at a discussion session titled ‘Sustainable Transformation: Transforming Tourism through a Circular Economy’ held at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2025 at ExCel London, CEO Joshi said that Nepal’s tourism policies are focusing on sustainability, local empowerment, and environmental protection.

According to Joshi, Nepal is now moving towards systemic and measurable change, not just limited to superficial ‘green’ initiatives. “We are now at a juncture where it is imperative to strike a balance between environmental protection, local participation, and economic sustainability. Nepal is fully committed to this direction,” he said.

The discussion saw international experts share their views on how the tourism sector can embrace the principles of a circular economy by reusing resources, managing waste, promoting low-carbon transport, and ensuring equal participation of local communities.

The session, organized by Trove Tourism Development Organization, was attended by tourism experts, policymakers, and private sector representatives from various countries. The discussion covered a wide range of topics, including emerging market trends, emerging markets’ challenges, and the importance of community participation in policymaking.

In addition, participants suggested ways to promote low-carbon mobility in destinations with weak infrastructure, challenges posed by lack of investment and skills development, and ways to directly benefit local communities from tourism.