Sustainability News January 2026 N.4
January 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Innovative and sustainable tourism in San Benedetto del Tronto
The Municipality of San Benedetto del Tronto, in the Marche region, has launched a 2030 strategic plan for sustainable tourism, focusing on eco-sustainability, accessibility and digital innovation. The plan involves environmental certifications, a tourist cycle network and strong local community involvement.
The Michelangelo Trail, promoting integrated cultural tourism in Florence
Florence is launching the Michelangelo Trail to promote sustainable cultural tourism, inviting visitors to enjoy a slower, more mindful experience. This approach aims to distribute tourist flows more evenly and showcase cultural heritage through a narrative tour linking the key places from Michelangelo’s life.
The Santa Barbara Mining Trail in Sardinia is the world’s number one path
The Santa Barbara Mining Trail in Sardinia has been named the best path in the world, showcasing the island's mining and industrial heritage. This route, covering over 500 km, promotes slow and mindful tourism, integrating local initiatives and contributing to deseasonalisation of tourist flows.
News from around the world
The Americas
Chile
Patagonia saved by NGOs: 133 thousand hectares of nature rescued from dams, chainsaws and speculation
The Cochamó Valley in Chilean Patagonia has been saved from destructive projects thanks to an initiative protecting 133 thousand hectares of nature. The project envisages an active conservation model, with 80% of the land protected and 20% designated for sustainable use, integrating low-impact tourism and local activities.
Dominican Republic
Five pilot circuits to promote ecotourism
The Dominican Republic is developing a national ecotourism strategy focusing on five pilot circuits integrating nature, culture and history. The initiative aims to promote regenerative conservation, community inclusion and economic resilience, making ecotourism a pillar of sustainable tourism in this country.
Peru
Regulatory reform for sustainable and inclusive tourism in Peru
Peru has updated its General Tourism Law after 16 years, introducing measures to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism. The legislation empowers governance, incentivises investment and improves visitor safety.
Mexico
Training initiatives on cetacean conservation for tour operators
PROFEPA has launched a training programme for tour operators in Los Cabos and Loreto, designed to promote sustainable whale-watching practices. The initiative aims to protect at-risk marine areas and ensure balance between biodiversity conservation and local economic development.
Colombia
Promoting sustainable tourism through Afro-Colombian culture
Cali’s first Afrotourism route offers authentic experiences showcasing Afro-Colombian traditions, involving local communities and promoting inclusive and sustainable tourism.
Asia
China
Chiayi, Taiwan’s best-kept secret for slow tourism featuring mountains, tea and tradition
Chiayi, in south-western Taiwan, is distinguishing itself as a destination for slow tourism, combining nature, culture and tradition. Local authorities aim to improve tourism quality by promoting longer stays and more immersive experiences, integrating tourism development and environmental protection.
India
Kashmir and Ladakh, key destinations for slow tourism
Slow tourism is taking off in India, with a sharp increase in multi-day trips to regions like Kashmir and Ladakh. This approach promotes more immersive and sustainable experiences, moving away from the fragmented and superficial tourism of the past.
Indonesia
Indonesia is establishing itself as a sustainable tourism destination, winning 32 international awards
Indonesia’s tourist industry has received 32 global awards, underlining its commitment to sustainable tourism that values cultural heritage and protects ecosystems. These awards boost the country's image as a high-quality destination and support its national economic development goals.
Europe
Spain
Deseasonalisation and sustainability in Spanish tourism
Spain is evolving towards a sustainable tourism model, reducing daily tourist pressures and promoting a more even visitor distribution. The focus is shifting from quantity to quality, with an increase in daily expenditure and a emphasis on culture and cuisine.
Exploring alternative routes for mindful and relational tourism
The growing interest in walking routes like the Camino de Santiago and the Via Francigena reflects a growing trend in slow, mindful tourism. These routes offer a transformative experience, promoting closeness to nature and cultural exchange, far from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Spain adopts regenerative tourism with a positive impact
Sustainable tourism in Spain is evolving towards a regenerative model aiming to give back more than it takes away from local areas. This approach involves a strict management of tourist flows and the reinvestment of the proceeds in ecosystem conservation and restoration, harnessing tourism as a tool for environmental and social regeneration.
Greece
Athens, named an icon of slow tourism by the Holiday Happiness Index
Athens has been recognised as the most walkable tourist destination in the world, thanks to its ability to offer a sustainable and immersive travel experience. The city allows visitors to explore iconic historical sites on foot, promoting well-being through closeness to nature and physical activity.
Switzerland
Discussion in Davos on the strategic role of tourism in economic growth and sustainability
At a panel in Davos, political and industry leaders discussed tourism as a pillar of economic diplomacy and a soft power tool. Sustainability was highlighted as a prerequisite for the future of the industry.
Eco-Scenarios
Tips for longer and slower solo trips
Solo tourism is evolving towards longer and slower experiences, with a focus on culture and sustainability. Travellers prefer longer stays, reducing movements and enjoying more immersive experiences. Countries like Japan and New Zealand are popular choices thanks to their safety and natural beauty.
The rise of cultural tourism and authentic local experiences
Cultural tourism, worth 607 billion USD in 2024, is on the rise reflecting interest in authentic and local experiences. This sector, driven by travellers aged over 50, promotes the rediscovery of local cultures and deals with sustainability challenges through initiatives such as new UNESCO sites.
Sustainable tourism set to take centre stage in 2026
Sustainable tourism is poised to play a key role in 2026 through concrete initiatives like limited access and green fees to protect local areas. Global examples show how rigorous conservation and planned ecotourism enhance the tourist experience and protect biodiversity.
Exploring the future of tourism with the ‘What the Future’ Report 2026’
Tourism is evolving towards more authentic and rejuvenating experiences in 2026, with a focus on well-being and authenticity. Lesser-known destinations and slow travel are gaining popularity, while mental well-being and design are becoming new symbols of luxury.
Exploring the world for personal and cultural reconnection
Long-distance travel is becoming a trend among young people, driven by a desire for ‘unplugging’ and cultural immersion. Projects like ‘Terra Ignota’ and NGOs like Viajes Tumani promote purposeful journeys mindful of impact on local communities.
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Elaborata da Extreme Srl per Enit SpA