Sustainability news July n. 3
July 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026

News from Italy

Seasonal herding drives sustainable development and cultural identity in Calabria

Calabria is promoting seasonal livestock movement as a driver for sustainable development, combining biodiversity, pastoral traditions and rural tourism. The T.R.A.C.C.E. project and Cammino della Transumanza trail offer slow tourism experiences, supported by regional investment in Podolica cattle farming and the historic sheep track network.

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Marche Active Tourism, the official app connecting visitors with the local area

The new Marche Active Tourism app makes active tourism in the Marche region easier, promoting sustainable transport through car-sharing while showcasing lesser-known destinations. The initiative aims to spread tourist numbers more evenly throughout the year and promote balanced and accessible development.

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Regeneration work begins in Borgo Pietro Lupo, Sicily

In Sicily, the Borgo Pietro Lupo restoration project aims to transform the village into a cultural, environmental and food and wine tourism attraction. The initiative promotes slow tourism and environmental sustainability, with cycle routes and a renewable energy system, boosting economic development and combating depopulation in rural areas.

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Mountain refuge restoration in Abruzzo: Rifugio Martellese now open for "improved safety and sustainable tourism in the mountains"

The Martellese mountain refuge has opened its doors in Abruzzo as part of a programme of mountain refuge restoration to promote sustainable tourism. The initiative aims to improve safety for walkers and to showcase the natural heritage, contributing to development of local communities.

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Alagna opens the ‘Panoramaweg’, a new circular hiking route at the foot of Monte Rosa

Alagna Valsesia is launching the Panoramaweg, a hiking trail that promotes sustainable tourism by revitalising ancient footpaths and raising awareness of climate change. This project aims to offer a slow and mindful experience of the Alpine region, promoting an eco-respectful model of outdoor tourism.

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Rediscovering Italy: the new guide to the country’s ‘most beautiful villages’ as a key to sustainable tourism

The I Borghi più Belli d’Italia guide promotes sustainable tourism by promoting small towns as authentic destinations. The initiative aims to distribute tourist numbers outside of major cities, supporting local economies and preservation of cultural heritage.

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Drivalia: electric car hire rises to 54% in summer 2026

In summer 2026, the number of electric cars hired in Italy has exceeded that of conventional cars, reaching 54%. This trend reflects a growing integration between sustainable transport and tourism, with a more informed and responsible approach to travel planning.

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Ostana gives the Ethnographic Museum a new lease of life: dual support for redevelopment and extension project

The Ostana Ethnographic Museum is undergoing expansion and improvement in accessibility thanks to a project supported by the Piedmont Region and the CRT Foundation. The initiative aims to promote Alpine culture and the identity of the Monviso region, combining digital technologies with inclusive experiences for all visitors.

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Marco Boglione’s green dream to revive the unspoilt island of Culuccia

On the island of Culuccia, Marco and Stella Boglione are promoting a sustainable tourism project combining environmental protection with high-quality farming. The initiative promotes biodiversity and local produce, demonstrating that economic development can go hand in hand with landscape conservation.

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New ‘cycling in the Stura Valley and surroundings’ map offers 1,100+ kilometres of cycle touring routes

The Pedala in Valle Stura e dintorni map features over 1,100 km of cycle routes, promoting sustainable tourism and exploration of the Cuneo area’s natural and cultural attractions. The initiative aims to showcase the local area through experiential and eco-friendly tourism.

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News from around the world

Africa

Ethiopia

Ethiopia digitises wildlife conservation in over 100 protected areas

In Ethiopia, a new digital wildlife monitoring system has been deployed across 106 protected areas. Using advanced technologies such as satellites and drones, the project aims to improve the management of national parks and promote sustainable ecotourism while protecting biodiversity.

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The Americas

Argentina

Journey through 10,000 years of indigenous history on Argentina’s first solar-powered train

The Quebrada Solar Train, recently launched in Argentina, marks a significant step towards sustainable tourism. Powered by solar energy, the train runs through the historic Quebrada de Humahuaca valley, promoting slow and sustainable tourism and offering new economic opportunities for local communities while preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

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Colombia

Introducing the Barranquilla and the Atlántico Department Sustainable Tourism Observatory

Colombia’s Universidad del Norte has launched a Sustainable Tourism Observatory to collect data and promote high-quality tourism. The initiative aims to support decision-making by institutions and businesses, drawing on local expertise and integrating research and training.

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Peru

New tourist trail to Q'ero with a focus on culture and identity now open in Cusco

A trail is now open in the Cusco region showcasing the heritage of the Q'ero Nation, promoting ancestral traditions and local economic development through sustainable cultural tourism.

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Asia

China

Qingshan’s metamorphosis from farming village to model green community

The Chinese village of Qingshan has transformed from a polluted farming community into a model of sustainable development thanks to water resource management and community involvement. This example of ecotourism and participatory governance could inspire similar strategies in Laos.

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India

Dibbanadoddi set for major environmental makeover

In Andhra Pradesh, the creation of a Deer Park in Dibbanadoddi is planned with the aim of promoting ecotourism and wildlife conservation. The initiative involves safaris and low-impact infrastructure, combining conservation with local economic development.

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Indonesia

Adventure tourism, a new frontier for Indonesia

Indonesia is striving to become a leader in adventure tourism by harnessing its rich natural heritage. The Ministry of Tourism is planning more than 30 outdoor sporting events in 2026, promoting public-private partnership and investing in infrastructure and training to ensure sustainable growth.

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Turkey

Wild horses once again take centre stage in the landscape of Cappadocia

In Cappadocia, Yılkı horses – a symbol of rural tradition – form the heart of a sustainable tourism initiative. Local cowboys lead horses along scenic routes for photography tours, helping to conserve the area and provide economic support for local communities.

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Europe

France

Cœur d’Hérault focuses on sustainable tourism to achieve Green Destinations accreditation

France is making progress with the Green Destinations certification process for the Cœur d'Hérault, involving institutions, businesses and citizens in a responsible tourism strategy. The initiative revolves around the involvement of local communities and the protection of natural and cultural heritage.

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United Kingdom

Free buses for under-16s from this summer to boost family tourism

The UK is launching the Great British Summer Savings scheme, offering free travel on local buses for children aged 5 to 15 throughout August. This initiative aims to promote domestic tourism and the use of public transport, supporting local economies and incentivising more sustainable travel.

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Spain

Local council uses tourist tax revenues to purchase and demolish old buildings in Mallorca

The Municipality of Calvià, in Mallorca, is investing over six million euros from Sustainable Tourism Tax to demolish derelict buildings and create public spaces. The initiative aims to reduce building density and improve mobility by providing parking spaces for cars and electric bicycles, for a more liveable and sustainable destination.

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Eco-scenarios

How to plan a more sustainable holiday without complicating life: five simple steps that make all the difference

This article explores how you can travel sustainably by making informed choices respectful of the environment and local communities. It emphasises the importance of opting for cleaner transport and eco-certified accommodation and supporting the local economy. The initiative also promotes waste reduction and conservation of natural resources.

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WTTC backs a sustainable certification scheme for the hospitality sector

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has transformed its Hotel Sustainability Basics programme into an independent certification scheme, aligned with European and Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards. The initiative aims to improve the transparency and credibility of hotels’ environmental performance by promoting sustainable practices such as energy efficiency and support for local communities.

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The psychology of rest is shifting, and the travel industry with it

Wellness tourism is reshaping the travel industry by promoting experiences combining physical and mental well-being. Practices such as sleep tourism, reading retreats and somatic healing journeys foster a more authentic connection with ourselves and our surroundings. Artificial intelligence plays a key role in streamlining the planning process, making travel a rejuvenating and mindful experience.

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