Sustainability News July 2025 N.3
21 July 2025
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2025
News from Italy
Innovative project to combat depopulation in vulnerable areas of Lazio
The ‘IN. Alta Sabina’ project aims to repopulate the upper Sabina area by 5% by 2035, promoting renewable energy, slow tourism and showcasing the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Supported by universities and institutions, the project is receiving 3 million euros from the Green Communities programme to invest in inland area development and cohesion.
Alessandra Priante on the importance of innovative and responsible tourism
Alessandra Priante, Chair of ENIT, stresses the importance of sustainable and mindful tourism, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in managing tourist flows and in strategic planning to address climate challenges.
Unicorn Mobility and B&B HOTELS promote e-bike rental in Italy
Unicorn Mobility and B&B HOTELS Italia are teaming up to offer a premium e-bike rental service, integrating sustainable transport solutions into tourist stays. This initiative aims to promote bicycle touring and reduce the environmental impact of tourism.
News from around the world
The Americas
Colombia
‘Humanimal Tourism’ campaign showcases the natural routes of migratory animals
Colombia is making a name for itself in sustainable tourism with its ‘Humanimal Tourism’ campaign, using advanced technologies to promote biodiversity and safeguard natural habitats. This innovative approach has won international recognition and aims to balance tourism with the ecological capacity of local areas.
Promoting biodiversity and culture in the Eastern Llanos
Colombia’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Diana Marcela Morales Rojas, has allocated 24 billion pesos to develop sustainable tourism in the Eastern Llanos, promoting birdwatching and traditional festivals. The initiative aims to enhance local biodiversity and culture by supporting sixty projects, forty-seven already approved, to build peace and responsible development.
Montería prepares to host Colombia’s largest botanical park
The Las Lagunas Botanical Park in Montería, designed by IDOM Consulting, will cover 30 hectares and be a model of sustainable urban development. With trails, cycle paths and urban gardens, the park will promote ecotourism and preservation of urban ecosystems, improving quality of life and boosting the local economy.
Sesquilé named one of the UN’s best tourist villages for 2025
Sesquilé, Colombia, has been recognised by the UN for its combination of conservation, culture and sustainable tourism. The village, known for its indigenous heritage, natural beauty and environmental strategies, is positioning itself as an example of responsible development.
Perù
German funding for conservation and ecotourism in the Pacaya Samiria Reserve
Germany has allocated more than 25 million USD to support protection of natural areas in Peru, with a focus on the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. The initiative aims to empower protected area management, promote ecotourism and develop sustainable value chains by actively involving local communities.
Oceania
Australia
Global warming impacts the presence of sand tiger sharks in Sydney
Sand tiger sharks are spending more time off the coast of Sydney due to global warming, with rising sea temperatures causing them to stay longer. This phenomenon offers new opportunities for sustainable ecotourism, despite the ecological and safety challenges.
Asia
China
Integrating sustainability into tourism governance in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is planning to develop ecotourism in the Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai areas, aiming to become a model of responsible tourism. However, to achieve success, it is crucial to place sustainability at the core of design and governance, avoiding fragmented, bureaucratic approaches.
Japan
JAL offers free flights to less crowded destinations
Japan, in cooperation with the airline JAL, is offering free domestic flights to less visited destinations in order to promote more sustainable and evenly distributed tourism. The initiative is currently available to tourists from certain Asian and Western countries.
India
Lease-back model in luxury resorts promotes sustainability and local culture
In India, the lease-back model in luxury resorts is transforming hospitality, promoting sustainable ecosystems and showcasing local cultures. This initiative offers economic returns while also contributing to responsible development of experiential tourism.
Europe
Norway
New requirements for sustainable cruises in the Norwegian fjords
From 2026, Norway will impose zero-emission requirements for passenger ships in the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord to reduce environmental impact and improve air quality. Measures include use of clean energy sources and connection to the on-shore power grid.
Denmark
Self-navigating cars for more evenly distributed tourism in the Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are tackling tourist overcrowding through the Auto Odyssey initiative, which uses self-navigating cars to take visitors to lesser-known destinations, promoting sustainable tourism respectful of the local environment.
France
Study reveals French cities ideal for slow tourism
A recent study by SIXT highlights a growing interest in slow tourism in France, with Aix-en-Provence leading the way due to its quality of life and balance between urbanisation and nature. The city is popular due to its green spaces, low traffic and peaceful atmosphere, meeting the collective need for quiet and well-being.
United Kingdom
Initiative for sustainable tourism management in Bath and Cambridge
The historic cities of Bath and Cambridge are proposing to introduce a tourist tax to manage the influx of tourists in a sustainable way. The proceeds would go towards improving local services while preserving attractiveness and quality of life for residents and visitors.
Spain
An authentic alternative to Madrid’s urban rhythm
The Sierra de Guadarrama, an hour from Madrid, offers slow and mindful tourism thanks to its biodiversity and beautiful landscape. Local communities are promoting traditional and innovative experiences, supported by efficient public transport that reduces environmental impact.
Eco-Scenarios
Balancing the effects of mass tourism for a sustainable future
Large-scale tourism offers economic benefits and environmental conservation opportunities, but can also damage ecosystems and local communities. Mindful management and sustainable strategies can transform tourism into a force for local area protection.
Importance of environmental certifications and mindful choices in sustainable travel
Reliable environmental certifications and conscious choices are essential if we are to achieve truly sustainable tourism. Certifications such as Green Key and B Corp guarantee real commitment to sustainability. In addition, reducing flights, staying longer and supporting the local economy are key steps towards minimising environmental impact.
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