Milan rises in global sustainability index amid Italian tourism infrastructure concerns

Milan has risen to 26th place in the 2026 Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index), improving eight positions from the previous year. The city’s strategy focuses on balancing global investment with environmental and social inclusion. Key initiatives include the ForestaMi project, which aims to plant three million trees by 2030, and a goal to electrify 100% of public transport by 2030. Currently, 43% of Milan’s electricity comes from renewable sources, supported by new driverless metro lines and an expanded electric bus fleet.

In contrast, discussions at the G20 of tourist cities in Lignano Sabbiadoro have highlighted significant structural challenges facing Italian tourism destinations. Critics argue that efforts to extend tourist seasons are hindered by unresolved issues, including insufficient technological networks, outdated sewage systems, and inadequate water purification plants. Additionally, ongoing coastal erosion remains a costly and unresolved problem, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability and resilience of such locations.