Sustainability news February n.1
February 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Proposal for revival of the Mercadante Forest in Apulia
The Mercadante Forest is celebrating its centenary as a model of reforestation and environmental engineering. The municipal administration is proposing a protocol to showcase the reserve through cultural and sporting events, promoting sustainable tourism and civic involvement.
Restricted access to combat overtourism in Val Funes
The municipality of Funes, in South Tyrol, has introduced measures to restrict vehicle access during peak season, reserving it for residents and guests with reservations. This initiative aims to reduce environmental impact and promote more sustainable tourism while preserving local authenticity.
Milan’s International Travel Exhibition promotes responsible tourism
The International Travel Exhibition (BIT) 2026 in Milan aims to be a key event for sustainable tourism, presenting initiatives combining authenticity and respect for locations. The event includes Italian and international projects promoting cycling tourism, local experiences and certified cultural tours, with a focus on soft mobility and slow tourism.
News from around the world
Africa
Morocco
Promotion of white water sports to develop sustainable tourism in Khénifra
Khénifra is launching a project to promote kayaking and rafting on the Oum Er-Rbia river, aiming to harness water resources as an engine for developing sustainable tourism. The initiative aims to boost ecotourism, create income for the local population and preserve the ecological balance of the Middle Atlas Mountains.
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Rwanda
The importance of canoes for community and sustainable tourism in Birwa I
On the island of Birwa I, dugout canoes are essential to the community’s daily life and sustainability. This means of transport not only connects inhabitants but also supports sustainable tourism, promoting resilience and social mobility.
The Americas
Canada
The rise of year-round wellness tourism in Quebec
Quebec is emerging as a leader in wellness tourism, reinterpreting the Scandinavian spa tradition from a North American perspective. With a focus on sustainability, Quebec offers immersive experiences promoting reconnection with nature and personal well-being, contributing to regional development and deseasonalising tourist flows.
Argentina
Maimará, named a top rural destination by the UN
Maimará, in the province of Jujuy, has been recognised by the UN as one of the best rural destinations for 2026, thanks to its balance of nature, culture and responsible tourism. The town stands out for its respect for the land and the authenticity of its local traditions.
Paraguay
Paraguay Rally awarded for its sustainable impact in sports tourism
The Paraguay Rally, recognised for its integrated approach to sustainability, has introduced advanced measures to reduce environmental impact, involving the local community in environmental regeneration and awareness-raising initiatives.
Puerto Rico
Strategies for deseasonalisation and local area development in San Juan
San Juan has developed a sustainable and diversified tourist offering, integrating nature, culture and science. Astrotourism and cultural and natural tours, such as the Triassic Park, promote responsible and deseasonalised tourism, actively involving both public and private sectors.
Asia
China
This curious red beach is a unique natural phenomenon
The Red Beach in Panjin, China, is a unique natural phenomenon that promotes sustainable tourism. Declared a nature reserve, it is home to rich biodiversity and offers eco-friendly immersive experiences such as wooden walkways and boat trips.
India
Deniyaya steps up as an ecotourism laboratory in Sri Lanka
The Ruhunu Tourism Bureau has launched sustainable tourism projects in Deniyaya, promoting ecotourism and involvement of local communities. Initiatives include the development of hiking trails, eco-friendly accommodation and training programmes for local guides, with a spotlight on the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.
The rise of dark tourism among young people in India
In India, dark tourism is gaining popularity among young people, especially Generation Z and millennials, seeking more authentic and meaningful travel experiences. This form of tourism promotes reflection and learning through visits to places linked to historical tragedies, encouraging an ethical and respectful approach.
UNESCO nomination for Meghalaya’s living root bridges
India has nominated Meghalaya’s living root bridges for UNESCO World Heritage status, highlighting an indigenous tradition combining nature and culture. These bridges, cultivated by the Khasi and Jaintia communities, are an example of sustainable coexistence and collective governance, promoting eco-friendly cultural tourism.
Turkey
An example of sustainable tourism in Çıralı, Turkey
Çıralı, in the province of Antalya, demonstrates the sustainable tourism potential of small accommodation facilities integrated into the landscape, shared planning and local community involvement. This model has led to sustainable economic growth, environmental protection and preservation of local identity.
The Middle East
Qatar
Doha set to become a hub of culture and tourism in the Gulf
Doha has been named a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Tourism Capital for 2026, thanks to its investments in sustainability and infrastructure. The city aims to create an integrated tourist ecosystem, supported by strong connectivity and world-class infrastructure, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Europe
Spain
Spain and Mexico lead sustainable tourism at FITUR 2026
FITUR 2026 highlighted a tourism model founded on sustainability, technology and authenticity. Spain focused on territorial diversification and off-season tourism, while Mexico presented the Mayan Train as a symbol of low-emission tourism. The Balkans are emerging as new sustainable destinations, while Iceland is consolidating its green leadership.
Ireland
Northern Ireland creates a unique walking experience combining scenic landscapes, cultural heritage and sustainable travel
The Downhill Demesne Signature Walk in Northern Ireland offers a walking experience blending spectacular scenery with heritage and sustainability. The 4.2-mile route along the Causeway Coast encourages use of public transport and promotes slow, immersive tourism, ensuring inclusivity and providing local economic benefits.
France
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur embraces regenerative tourism
The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region is adopting regenerative tourism to generate environmental, social and economic benefits. Initiatives such as the Hôtel du Nord cooperative and deseasonalisation aim to involve local communities and reduce pressure on fragile sites, promoting sustainable and responsible tourism.
Belgium
Exhibition on sustainable tourism projects at the European Parliament
An exhibition at the European Parliament in Brussels presented sustainable tourism projects from various EU countries, highlighting their positive environmental, local community and economic impacts. Initiatives such as accessible beaches in Greece and awareness-raising projects in Germany took centre stage.
Eco-scenarios
Exploring the world with authenticity and emotional connection
Tourism is evolving towards authentic and meaningful experiences in 2026, with a focus on well-being and emotional connection. Travellers prefer trips that are more about the journey than the destination, promoting slow and mindful tourism.
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