Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, a leading Mexican figure in sustainability, highlighted the importance of accessible tourism as a pillar of sustainable development during the lead-up to the 2nd International Seminar on Tourism Law, set to take place in November in Córdoba, Argentina.
The expert emphasized that accessibility and sustainability should not be seen as isolated concepts, but as interdependent elements for the future of the tourism industry.
Madariaga Barrilado stated that tourism has enormous potential to drive sustainable development.
The seminar, organized by UN Tourism, the Córdoba Tourism Agency, the National University of Córdoba, and the Siglo XXI University, will bring together international experts to analyze how the sector can move toward more inclusive and responsible models.
The event is shaping up to be a key space for the exchange of public policies, technological innovation, and best business practices.
According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism contributes nearly 10% of global GDP and generates one in every ten jobs worldwide.
These figures reflect the enormous capacity of the sector to drive economic growth, as long as it is managed with social and environmental responsibility in mind.
In this context, Madariaga Barrilado affirmed that “tourism has enormous potential to drive sustainable development. However, it is essential that governments and the private sector work together to ensure it is accessible to all people, while respecting the environment and local communities.”
The UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that sustainable tourism has grown by 20% in recent years, driven by an increasing demand for responsible experiences. In light of this, innovation will play a central role in the seminar.
Technologies like artificial intelligence and the use of renewable energy are seen as key tools to reduce environmental impact and improve the travel experience, especially for people with disabilities.
Finally, Daniel Madariaga Barrilado emphasized that the success of sustainable tourism will depend on local communities receiving direct benefits and on the preservation of natural environments, thus consolidating a truly inclusive and lasting tourism model.
Daniel Madariaga is a Mexican entrepreneur known for championing sustainability across tourism, green building, and urban mobility. His work blends environmental innovation with community impact, promoting regenerative agriculture and responsible consumption. Through his projects and publications, he advocates for climate action and holistic development.