Sustainability news April n.4
April 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Discovering the unknown Muculufa and its four thousand years of history
The Muculufa area in Sicily is experiencing a phase of rediscovery thanks to the 'Amici della Muculufa' association, which promotes slow, experiential tourism. The initiative aims to preserve the historical, natural and cultural wealth of the area through sustainable routes and cultural activities, transforming it into a destination that combines knowledge, nature and memory.
Bolzano, a hydrogen valley for sustainable mobility
The Hydrogen Adige Valley, a pioneering project that integrates renewable energy and green hydrogen for zero-emission public mobility, has been created in Bolzano. With an investment of 35 million euros, the initiative aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by fuelling a fleet of environmentally friendly buses and promoting a replicable model in other regions.
Spring bridges? In the WWF Oases: events for all, including lagoons, reefs and forest bathing
WWF Oases in Italy are opening their doors to the public with events promoting sustainability and biodiversity. From 25 April to 2 June, around 100 protected areas offer immersive experiences such as forest bathing and educational activities, turning visits into moments of environmental awareness. The initiative also includes a digital 'Grand Tour of the Oases' to broaden participation.
Tuscany Trail: the itinerary for discovering Tuscany on a gravel bike
The Tuscany Trail offers a unique cycling experience, crossing Tuscany on gravel bikes. This 445 km route promotes slow and sustainable tourism, allowing you to explore iconic landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites with a conscious and environmentally friendly approach.
The pile dwelling village in Italy is like a Caribbean island, but you are above a heart-shaped lake
Castellaro Lagusello, a village in Lombardy known for its Bronze Age archaeological remains, is a model of sustainable showcasing of cultural heritage and landscape. Recognised by UNESCO, the site promotes responsible tourism through the preservation of its historical and natural structures.
Tor Vergata University brings a course in Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Heritage Showcasing to Tivoli
The University of Rome Tor Vergata is launching a three-year degree course in Tivoli, integrating theory and practice to train sustainable tourism professionals. The project, housed in the City Museum, aims to showcase the local cultural heritage and promote sustainable territorial development.
Capo Spartivento, the Marine Protected Area is born: the future of the sea starts from Domus de Maria
The establishment of the Capo Spartivento Marine Protected Area represents a significant step towards the protection of marine ecosystems in Sardinia. Covering 3,700 hectares, the area aims to combine environmental protection and sustainable development by regulating human activity and promoting the responsible use of natural resources. The initiative involves scientific institutions and the local community, strengthening Sardinia's role in protecting the sea.
News from around the world
Africa
Marocco
Sustainable coastal tourism: The EBRD prepares support programme for Morocco
The EBRD, in collaboration with the GEF and UNDP, is developing a programme to promote sustainable coastal tourism in Morocco. The initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of tourism through green policies and access to finance.
The Americas
Argentina
Studying abandoned quarries for silverside breeding and ecotourism
A CONICET project aims to transform abandoned quarries in the province of Buenos Aires into sustainable resources through fish farming and the development of ecotourism. The initiative involves analysing the characteristics of the ponds to assess the feasibility of alternative uses, promoting new economic opportunities and environmental enhancement.
Peru
The future of tourism is 'put to the test' in Cusco: the model that restores value to consumption
Cusco is emerging as a model of circular economy in tourism, integrating local communities and production chains for sustainable development. Initiatives such as the collaboration between tour operators and artisans in Chinchero and the new management plan for Machu Picchu aim to reduce waste and optimise resources while enhancing local cultural identity.
Asia
South Korea
From South Korea to learn more about the Oñati tourism model
Oñati welcomed a South Korean delegation to share its internationally recognised model of sustainable tourism. The meeting strengthened the dialogue between the two communities, both of which are committed to promoting tourism that showcases cultural and environmental heritage.
India
Proposed sustainable amusement park for Alappad's coastal stretch
An ecotourism project along the coastal stretch of Alappad aims to create an environmentally friendly amusement park combining tourism development and environmental protection. The initiative includes sustainable infrastructure, such as artificial dunes and cycle paths, and the use of solar energy, promoting a model of responsible coastal tourism.
Welcome to Jawai, the 'Maasai Mara' of India and a safari unlike any other
Jawai in Rajasthan offers a unique safari experience, where leopards and local communities live together in harmony free of barriers. This high-end type of ecotourism promotes sustainable tourism, valuing the connection with nature and the simplicity of the experience.
The plan for Asola Bhatti focuses on ecotourism, Aravalli conservation and managing human-wildlife interaction
The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in New Delhi launches a 10-year plan to integrate ecotourism and environmental conservation. The project, supported by the Wildlife Institute of India, aims to enhance the Aravalli Mountains ecosystem through educational activities and community involvement, addressing challenges such as pollution and urban pressure.
No selfies, no phone: why nature destinations are starting to say 'no' to tourists
In India, a Supreme Court ruling has banned the use of mobile phones in tiger reserves to reduce overcrowding and protect the animals. This measure aims to promote more sustainable tourism, limiting human impact and preserving the natural habitat.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is developing its national parks and adventure offers
Kazakhstan is expanding its protected areas to promote sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation. By 2035, national parks will have grown by 20,000 km², offering new opportunities for birdwatching and ecotourism. The project includes reforestation, the improvement of infrastructure and enhancement of nomadic culture.
Europe
European travel meets wellness: the wild swimming trend conquers 2026
In 2026, European tourism will be transformed by open-water swimming, promoting authentic and regenerative experiences. This practice, which emphasises a connection with nature, is led by destinations such as Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia, and represents a cultural shift towards more sustainable and conscious tourism.
Germany
Berlin also rewards responsible tourists: special initiative for sustainability
Berlin launches BerlinPay, a programme that rewards tourists for sustainable behaviour, such as waste collection, with discounts and free admission. The initiative aims to involve visitors in the protection of the urban environment and to improve the relationship between residents and tourists.
United Kingdom
In London, Spain presents its vision of sustainable tourism at the service of the country
In London, Spain presented a new vision of sustainable tourism, focused on the well-being of the country and its residents. During the 'Spain Talks' meetings, instruments such as tourist taxes and limits on tourist flows to reduce environmental and social impacts were discussed, which are in line with the 'Spain 2030' strategy.
England at a slow pace: walking the route of King Charles III
The King Charles III England Coast Path is a coastal route of over 4,300 km that links the entire perimeter of England, promoting sustainable tourism and accessibility. This project enhances the area with infrastructure adaptable to environmental changes and strengthens the link between community and landscape through cultural and gastronomic events.
Glasgow unveils new tourism plan after reaching top five in a global index
Glasgow is ranked among the top five sustainable destinations in the world thanks to a new action plan that integrates economic growth and sustainability. The Scottish city focuses on collaborations between institutions and operators, increasing environmental certifications and promoting sustainable events to enhance cultural heritage and the local community.
Spain
Spain restores a historic train with an 89 km route across 75 bridges and 40 tunnels
The Tren dels Llacs, a historical train through the Catalan hinterland, is an example of sustainable tourism. With its 89 km route including lakes, tunnels and bridges, it promotes slow tourism and the revitalisation of rural areas, emphasising the train as an environmentally friendly means of transport.
Eco-Scenarios
Safaris in 2026: growth in wildlife tourism, but how do you choose destinations in Africa and Latin America?
Safari tourism in 2026 is evolving towards more authentic and sustainable experiences, with increased advance planning and increased traveller awareness. Emerging destinations are growing and offers are diversifying to include cultural activities and conservation projects.
All the sustainable travel habits that tourists are adopting in 2026
Booking.com's Travel & Sustainability Report 2026 reveals that 85% of travellers consider sustainability to be crucial. New habits include choosing less crowded destinations, supporting local communities and adopting sustainable housing and transport, with a strong involvement of Millennials and Gen Z.
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