Sustainability News January 2026 N.2
January 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Italy is seeing significant growth in cycle tourism as an active and sustainable holiday choice
Cycle tourism in Italy is booming, accounting for more than 10% of tourist turnout and generating an economic impact of 9.8 billion euros. E-bikes are transforming the sector, offering experiences and services promoting sustainable and widespread tourism.
Themed tours in eastern Liguria for sustainable tourism
In eastern Liguria, five new themed tours are on offer, exploring defensive architecture and promoting sustainable and respectful tourism. These routes, combining the coast, sea and hinterland, showcase cultural and natural heritage, inviting visitors to explore Liguria out of peak season, slowly and mindfully.
Asolo positions itself as an example of experiential and sustainable tourism in the Veneto region
In 2025, Asolo recorded a 21% increase in visitors and a 32% increase in revenue, thanks to an experiential and sustainable tourism strategy. UN recognition for 'Best Tourism Villages' highlights the success of an offering that showcases historical and cultural heritage, promoting open-air experiences and use of cumulative ticketing.
An 880 km path highlighting the traditions of Lombardy’s highlands
The Via Montagna Lombarda is a new 880 km route through the Lombardy Alps, promoting slow and sustainable tourism. The project, supported by the Lombardy Region, connects historical trails and local communities, offering an immersive and accessible experience off the beaten track of mass tourism.
‘Sicily Divide’, circumnavigating Sicily by bike (try it at least once in your lifetime!)
‘Sicily Divide’ offers a unique opportunity to explore Sicily by bicycle, covering 1,200 km of routes linking cities, villages and cultural sites far from the conventional tourist circuits. This project promotes slow and sustainable tourism, harnessing the island's existing cycling infrastructure and showcasing its natural beauty.
News from around the world
The Americas
Argentina
The family reserve protecting the water of Córdoba: conservation and alliances in the Sierras Grandes
The Amuchástegui family have turned their property in the Sierras Grandes into a model of environmental conservation, focusing on safeguarding native forests and water resources. Through partnerships with NGOs and companies, the ‘Allies for Water’ project promotes reforestation and protection of springs, supporting sustainable and responsible tourism.
Creation of a binational park spanning Uruguay and Argentina
Donation of the Chala, Ingá and Pingüino islands to Uruguay's National System of Protected Areas promotes both the conservation of biodiversity and development of sustainable tourism. The initiative fosters cross-border cooperation and offers new economic opportunities through slow and nautical tourism, strengthening local communities.
Chile
Expanding the vegan offering to ‘The family reserve protecting the water of Córdoba: conservation and alliances in the Sierras Grandes’
Valparaíso is establishing itself as a sustainable destination thanks to expansion of its vegan culinary offering. The city has launched an official guide to vegan venues, promoting responsible and inclusive tourism that enhances the local economy and reduces environmental impact.
Colombia
Explore new sustainable travel experiences near Bogotá
In 2026, ecological hikes around Bogotá offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature through guided tours combining mindful travel, environmental education and exploration of the local area. These experiences promote respect for biodiversity and indigenous culture, transforming walking into an act of well-being and awareness.
Cartagena introduces electric vehicles for responsible tourism
Cartagena has replaced horse-drawn carriages with electric vehicles, earning international recognition for its commitment to sustainable tourism. This initiative reduces environmental impact and promotes animal welfare, positioning the city as a leader in responsible tourism.
Asia
India
Complex areas and eco-sustainable practices in India
In India, villages like Mawlynnong and Khonoma demonstrate integration of sustainability into daily life through community waste management and biodiversity protection. The Idukki district in Kerala is an example of how policies based on renewable energy and regulated ecotourism can transform complex areas into models of sustainability.
Turkey
On Turkey’s olive route, discovering a thousand years of history
The Olive Route in Turkey offers a sustainable tourism experience interweaving history, culture and agricultural traditions. This tour invites people to experience the local area in a mindful way through olive harvesting, tastings in oil mills and encounters with local communities, promoting experiential and responsible tourism.
Europe
Cyprus
Nicosia honoured as Europe’s best cultural destination
Nicosia has been recognised as Europe’s best cultural destination for 2026, thanks to its sustainable tourism development strategy and collaboration between local authorities. This award opens up new opportunities for sustainable urban tourism.
France
Commitment to renewal of the Grand Site de France label
Rochefort Agglo is preparing to renew the ‘Grand Site de France’ label for the Charente Estuary and Rochefort Arsenal by 2026. The initiative aims to consolidate sustainable management of tourist flows and landscape protection by actively involving the local community.
Sustainable development and accessibility of rural areas in France
French rural areas are undergoing a sustainable transformation integrating economic development and environmental protection. Local initiatives are promoting clean energy, biodiversity and sustainable agriculture, making these areas attractive to slow and sustainable tourism with a focus on hiking and eco-friendly stays.
Ireland
Walking and cycling tourism on the rise in Ireland
Ireland is preparing for a more sustainable future in tourism by increasing its walking and cycling tourism. The 2026 report highlights the increasing importance of these activities, supported by a growing infrastructure fostering authentic, low-impact experiences.
Romania
Dark tourism: an opportunity for sustainable development in Romania
In Romania, ‘dark tourism’ is attracting visitors with its aura of mystery while also supporting local economies, particularly in rural areas. This approach encourages longer stays and a deep connection with the local area, helping to safeguard cultural heritage and offering a model for sustainable development.
Spain
Castellón promotes accessible tourism through diversified routes
The ‘Walking with the Provincial Council’ programme has involved 1,185 people on 26 routes through Castellón, promoting sustainable and accessible tourism. The initiative has promoted knowledge of local heritage, with a positive economic impact on the municipalities visited, strengthening the bond between people and the local area.
Eco-Scenarios
Last-chance tourism accelerates deterioration
Last-chance tourism, which urges travellers to visit destinations at risk of disappearance, highlights a paradox by raising environmental awareness while, at the same time, contributing to the degradation of fragile ecosystems. This phenomenon underlines the urgent need to adopt more responsible and sustainable travel models.
Airbnb predicts an increase in culinary experiences as a global trend
In 2026, culinary tourism is set to become a leading trend, with travellers seeking authentic experiences through cooking and baking courses. This phenomenon promotes slow and mindful tourism, transforming the kitchen into a space for intercultural encounters and forming authentic bonds with local communities.
Travel trends 2026: emotional experiences vs. frenzy
In 2026, tourism will evolve towards personalised and authentic experiences, with a focus on concerts, spiritual journeys and slow travel. Travellers are seeking profound connections with destinations, favouring extended stays and activities aligned with their personal interests.
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Elaborata da Extreme Srl per Enit SpA