Sustainability News December 2025 N.1
December 2025
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2025
News from Italy
Over 300 athletes running in Puglia for the MurGeoPark Trail Experience
The MurGeoPark Trail Experience transforms the Alta Murgia National Park into a laboratory of responsible tourism, promoting an authentic experience that combines sport, culture and sustainability. The initiative engages local communities and fosters circular economies, strengthening biodiversity protection and sustainable land management.
Fantastico Medioevo: the network of municipalities at the heart of the project
The "Fantastico Medioevo" project, led by Melfi, promotes sustainable tourism through a network of Lucanian municipalities. The initiative blends history and culture, distributing tourist flows and supporting local economies, with a focus on participation and cultural identity.
From the streets decked with lights to the Sanctuary. Advent comes to life in Paladina with "Mercasolidale"
In Paladina, Mercasolidale transforms the Christmas market into a sustainable tourism event, promoting soft mobility and local crafts. The initiative, part of the Festival of the Territories of the Hills and Brembo, offers an immersive, low-impact experience integrating community, environment and traditions.
Sustainable tourism: Asinara Park honoured by the European Parliament
Asinara National Park has received the European Sustainable Tourism Charter, in recognition of its responsible management and decarbonisation policies. With an action plan through 2029, the park aims to protect marine ecosystems and enhance natural resources by involving local communities and sectors such as fisheries.
Lombardy: sustainable innovation with new electric boat on Lake Ceresio
The new electric boat project on Lake Ceresio, planned for 2026, is a significant step toward more sustainable tourism. With zero emissions, the boat will reduce road traffic and improve air quality, fostering efficient and integrated lake mobility. This initiative is part of the Venti35 project, which aims to showcase local heritage and foster responsible, high-quality tourism.
Venice, a living laboratory: five ideas to transform mobility habits
The Toyota Mobility Foundation has launched the Sustainable Cities Challenge in Venice, focusing on transforming mobility habits. Five innovative initiatives aim to encourage the use of sustainable modes of transportation, such as bicycles and trams, through rewards, micro-incentives and advanced technologies. These solutions, supported by initial funding, could make Venice an international model of sustainable mobility.
News from around the world
Africa
Cape Verde
UN launches circular economy programme for waste management
The United Nations has launched a $2.5 million programme in Boa Vista, Cape Verde, to promote sustainable tourism through the circular economy. The project aims to improve solid waste management and integrate sustainability into tourism growth, creating green jobs and promoting the island as an eco-friendly destination.
The Americas
Argentina and Chile
Final Frontier Patagonia: the first bike race linking the Chilean and Argentinean areas of Patagonia starts in March
"Final Frontier Patagonia" is an ultra-distance cycling challenge that crosses both Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism. Created by Austral Trails, the initiative encourages self-sufficiency and immersion in nature, with support from international organisations and the Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia Foundation.
Colombia
Simón Bolívar Park recognised as Latin America’s first zero-emission park
Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park in Bogotà has received the True Green Seal certification for its sustainable practices, becoming the first zero-emission park in Latin America. This recognition highlights the park's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through recycling, producing organic fertilisers and promoting sustainable mobility, consolidating Bogotá as an innovative destination in responsible tourism.
"105 Città Eroica": an initiative that promotes the cultural economy and tourism in Cartagena
The "105 Città Eroica" initiative in Cartagena transforms local history into an immersive cultural experience, promoting sustainable and authentic tourism. With the involvement of over 40 local artists, the project aims to enhance the community and generate economic development, strengthening cultural tourism and the local economy.
Guatemala
Guatemala unveils Climate Action Strategy and 2036 targets to boost sustainable tourism
Guatemala is implementing a Tourism Climate Action Strategy, involving various sectors to promote a sustainable tourism model. With more than 100 actions, the plan aims to reduce emissions, address deforestation, and develop local communities by integrating sustainable tourism into the 2026-2036 General Plan.
United States
The U.S. National Park Service hikes admission fees to foreign tourists to fund conservation and sustainable tourism
The U.S. National Park Service will increase entrance fees payable by international tourists by $100 from 2026. This measure aims to fund conservation and sustainable management of its parks, promoting the use of renewable energy and habitat protection. The initiative also encourages visits to lesser-known parks, supporting local economies.
Asia
United Arab Emirates
Dubai's harmonious model: tourism that builds the future
Dubai is implementing a sustainable tourism model that integrates industry growth with urban development, focusing on social harmony, quality of life and environmental protection. Initiatives such as Quality of Life 2033 and the Net Zero 2050 strategy drive sustainability, inclusion and environmental conservation projects, transforming the city into an example of a sustainable destination.
India
Participatory tourism: how the villages in Maharashtra are crafting their own future
In Maharashtra, community-driven rural tourism is transforming villages through models that enhance natural resources, culture and local governance. These approaches promote sustainable agriculture, homestays and microenterprises, generating economic and social benefits for local communities.
Hope for turtles: olive ridleys are recovering in India, but are still at risk
The Velas Turtle Festival in India is an example of how tourism can support olive turtle conservation. The event engages tourists and local communities in turtle protection, fostering environmental awareness and sustainable economic benefits for the village.
Europe
Croatia and Finland
Smart and sustainable tourism: Tampere and Dubrovnik as models for Europe
Tampere and Dubrovnik have been honoured by the European Commission for their commitment to sustainable tourism. Tampere stands out for its integration of innovation and social welfare, while Dubrovnik excels in managing tourist flows and protecting historical heritage. Both cities are replicable examples of how technology and culture can coexist harmoniously.
France
The French Open Innovation Challenge highlights innovative technological solutions for sustainable tourism in France
The French Open Innovation Challenge demonstrated how collaboration between startups, companies and institutions can promote sustainable tourism in France. Projects such as those of Aquatech and Veolia for water recycling and the digital experiences of Karacal and Renault show how technology can reduce environmental impact and enhance cultural heritage.
No-fly travelling: top destinations to reach by train from France
Travelling by train from Europe offers a sustainable alternative to flying, reducing emissions and enhancing the travel experience. Destinations such as Berlin, Vienna and Bruges are easily accessible, promoting responsible and authentic tourism.
Greece
Greece discusses the role of AI in redefining tourism, increasing competitiveness and promoting sustainable development
Greece is using artificial intelligence to promote sustainable tourism, optimising destination management and reducing environmental pressure. Using advanced digital tools, the country aims to better distribute tourism flows and showcase local communities by supporting responsible tourism and the diversification of supply.
Spain
Generation Z redraws the tourism map, with Spain emerging as the epicentre
Generation Z is revolutionising tourism in Spain, by promoting authentic, sustainable travel. With a focus on cultural experiences and wellness, young travellers are choosing less crowded destinations and supporting local economies. Spain has become a laboratory for responsible tourism, with increased bookings in medium and small cities and sustainable mobility thanks to the AVE rail network.
The Jerte Valley, recognised as "Best Rural and Nature Destination"
The Jerte Valley was crowned "Best Rural and Nature Destination" for its commitment to protecting the land and promoting responsible tourism. The region stands out for its preservation of natural and cultural heritage, offering authentic experiences that integrate nature, culture and local traditions.
Oceania
Easter Island
Rapa Nui opens to the world to plan for the future of its ancestral heritage
The Rapa Nui Heritage Summit 2025 focuses on sustainability, bringing together indigenous leaders and experts to promote the conservation of the island's cultural and natural heritage. The event highlights the importance of indigenous leadership in sustainable resource management, addressing issues such as restoration and conservation in the face of climate change.
Eco-scenarios
G20 recognises tourism as a lever for sustainable and inclusive development
During the G20 summit in South Africa, leaders stressed the importance of sustainable tourism as a tool for shared prosperity. They pledged to promote innovation, responsible investment and digitisation to achieve a more efficient and less impactful sector, with a focus on social inclusion and climate resilience.
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Elaborata da Extreme Srl per Enit SpA