Sustainability & Tradition: 4th T4SDG Meeting in Nyíregyháza

On May 7–8, 2025, Nyíregyháza hosted the 4th international partner meeting of the Tourism4SDG project. The event aimed to promote more sustainable tourism practices and explore ways to integrate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into local tourism policies. 

The two-day event began at the Hunguest Hotel Sóstó, where Dr. Ferenc Kovács, Mayor of Nyíregyháza, welcomed participants. The professional presentations covered current tourism trends in the city, development opportunities in the region’s active tourism sector, and the relationship between sustainable local transport and tourism marketing. The
presence of the Hungarian Tourism Agency added further professional value to the program. Their representative provided a comprehensive overview of national efforts and best practices in sustainable tourism.

Participants were also introduced to I-DEST, Europe’s first complex tourism monitoring system, which offers a new approach to the collection and analysis of tourism data. Special attention was given to the Sóstó Zoo, which exemplifies how experience-based leisure can be combined with educational content.

Following the professional seminar, the afternoon continued with a project meeting. In the evening, participants enjoyed a traditional Hungarian dinner and pálinka tasting at Pálinkaház. Accompanied by a folkloric performance, the event offered guests a true cultural experience and a taste of Hungarian gastronomy. 

The second day focused on local best practices. During a visit to Sóstó Open Air Museum, international guests could experience traditional crafts through interactive demonstrations, sample local cuisine, and even take part in a historically themed school lesson. The aim was to show that sustainability does not exclude tradition—in fact, their synergy can shape the future of tourism.

The program continued at Sóstó Zoo, where participants explored its unique offerings aboard electric shuttles. Committed to environmental education and conservation, the Zoo provides experiential learning opportunities for all ages. In celebration of the "Day of Birds and Trees"; a symbolic tree-planting ceremony was held, with the early maple—Hungary’s “Tree of the Year”—representing hope for a sustainable future.

The partner meeting concluded with a community bike tour and a city walk through the center of Nyíregyháza, offering insights into the city’s heritage while promoting eco-friendly transportation and sustainability.

Tourism4SDG meeting was not only professionally enriching, but also left a lasting impression with its experience-driven approach. Participants returned home with new ideas, inspiring best practices, and a renewed commitment to building a greener future.