Sustainability news June n. 1
June 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
The sea as a driver of growth: Taranto steps us as a marine research hub
In Taranto, a new protocol between Jonian Dolphin Conservation and the National Observatory for the Protection of the Sea (ONTM) aims to safeguard cetaceans and promote sustainable tourism in the Ionian Sea. The agreement involves use of advanced technologies for environmental monitoring and dolphin watching initiatives, helping reduce human impact and harness marine resources.
As the world puts up walls, a festival is building a geography of peace: IT.A.CÀ is back all over Italy
The IT.A.CÀ festival celebrates responsible tourism as a tool for peace and dialogue, involving eight Italian regions with events promoting sustainable mobility and social inclusion. With paths, hikes and cultural encounters, the initiative showcases local areas and communities, promoting a model of mindful and respectful travel.
Trekking at Lake Bomes: 120 participants explore the Montemaggiore reserve
In Montemaggiore Belsito, a trekking event drew 120 participants to the Bosco di Favara and Bosco Granza nature reserve, promoting sustainable tourism and appreciation of the environment. The initiative combined nature, youth involvement and sustainability, offering an immersive experience in the striking Lake Bomes ecosystem.
Slow tourism: “cycling reveals hidden places”, says Casellati
'The Future of Tourism is Slow' forum in Perugia highlighted the way in which cycling tourism can showcase local areas and villages, promoting sustainable tourism. Cycling journalist Ludovica Casellati emphasises the importance of bikes for rediscovering hidden places and reviving local economies through greenways.
Sicily for families amid nature and wildlife: an unexpected experience at the foot of Mount Etna
Sustainable tourism showcasing nature and local communities is growing at the foot of Mount Etna, in the Catania area. Through exchange systems, families and visitors work together in rural activities, enjoying authentic experiences far removed from mass tourism.
Cycling in Umbria in the valley of the Republic born by mistake
Umbria is investing in slow tourism with the Upper Tiber Valley bike path, promoting cycling tours through natural landscapes and historic villages. The initiative aims to promote sustainable enjoyment of the area, supported by use of e-bikes, and attract visitors to small Umbrian towns.
Bovino, the key to sustainable tourism and innovation for revival of a village in Puglia
Bovino, a village in the Dauni mountains, is implementing the 'Bovino Innovation' project to promote sustainable tourism and social innovation. The initiative aims to showcase the local heritage and create new economic opportunities involving the community and promoting ecological transition.
Child-friendly beaches win Menfi a Green Flag 2026: a record in Sicily
Menfi, in Sicily, is making waves with its safe and sustainable beaches, earning a 2026 Green Flag. This award, along with the historic Blue Flag, highlights the resort's commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible hospitality, making this an ideal destination for families.
Wine tourism: train travel to wine towns is growing
In Italy, wine tourism is experiencing significant growth, with an increase in rail travel to wine towns. This trend fosters slower and more sustainable tourism, showcasing local areas and their products and lowering environmental impact compared to travelling by car.
News from around the world
The Americas
Brazil
Brazilian government allocates $617.5M to eco-investments in the Amazon
The Brazilian government has committed 617.5 million dollars to foster sustainable development in the Amazon through the Eco Invest programme. The initiative aims to support sustainable tourism and the bio-economy by attracting private capital to safeguard the forest and promote economic growth compatible with environmental protection.
Canada
Magdalen Islands achieve GreenStep Gold certification for sustainable tourism
The Magdalen Islands in Canada have been awarded GreenStep Gold certification, an international award for sustainable tourism. This achievement rewards the archipelago's commitment to environmental protection and tourism governance, involving public authorities and the local community in a sustainable development model.
United States
Penn State University introduces new methods to measure the sustainability of rural tourism
A team of Penn State researchers has developed an index to assess the sustainability of rural tourism in the US, analysing economic, social and environmental impacts. The tool helps identify imbalances and promote targeted policies to improve the quality of life and economic resilience of local communities.
Asia
India
How domestic tourism is reshaping India’s hotel industry
Geopolitical instability and rising international travel costs are pushing Indians towards domestic tourism, transforming the hotel industry. Hotels are adapting by offering local cultural and gastronomic experiences, supporting the market in smaller towns as well.
In the midst of pressure from overtourism, Bali chooses sports tourism to care for destinations
Bali is tackling overtourism by encouraging sports tourism through events such as the Bali Tourism Run 2026. By limiting participants and promoting local cultural experiences, the island is building more sustainable and eco-friendly tourism.
Europe
Europe without the crowds: alternative destinations to explore this year
Civitatis is highlighting a growing interest in less crowded and more authentic European destinations, such as Riga, Transylvania, Berat and Ljubljana. These locations offer experiences associated with nature and local culture, promoting sustainable tourism off the beaten track.
Baltic-Nordic singing heritage earns European Cultural Route status
The Council of Europe has certified the Singing Heritage Route which links Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania through their singing traditions. This route promotes the conservation of intangible heritage and development of local communities through sustainable cultural tourism.
EU adopts roadmap for sustainable and competitive tourism
The Council of the European Union has approved a roadmap to promote more sustainable and competitive tourism, tackling overcrowding and promoting environmental, economic and social sustainability. The strategy aims to reduce environmental impact, improve employment quality and rebalance tourist flows through a multi-level governance approach.
Loyal and generous eco-tourists spend more and seek new destinations in protected areas
Ecotourism in Spain is experiencing significant growth, with increasingly environmentally conscious visitors willing to spend more on authentic and sustainable experiences. The average daily expenditure of eco-tourists reached almost 179 euros, with a strong interest in local nature, culture and food. Direct bookings with local operators are boosting the economy for communities, while travellers adopt an increasingly eco-conscious approach.
Albania
Exploring Albania’s unspoilt landscapes by road
Albania is making its mark as a sustainable tourism destination thanks to its unspoilt landscapes and protected natural areas. With over 11% of its land protected, this country offers ecotourism experiences that showcase biodiversity and local traditions, promoting responsible and eco-friendly tourism.
France
La Maison de la Randonnée, a new gateway to nature tourism from Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines
La Maison de la Randonnée, located in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines, is a new nature tourism centre, promoting hiking, cycling and horse riding. Supported by the Tourist Office, the initiative aims to showcase the natural heritage of the southern Yvelines, inspired by successful models in other French departments.
Spain
Málaga rewards sustainable tourism projects and presents the new 'Málaga de verdad' campaign
At the Tourism Awards Gala, Málaga honoured projects and personalities fostering sustainability in tourism. The new 'Málaga de verdad' (true Málaga) campaign invites people to explore the city in authentic style, showcasing local culture and communities.
A responsible tourism guide: the Basque Country initiative
The Basque Country is promoting responsible tourism through a guide that encourages respect for local culture and sustainable consumption. The initiative is inspired by the Sustainable Development Goals and aims to preserve cultural and environmental heritage by promoting use of local and sustainable services.
The Middle East
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia launches new safari and birdwatching projects
Saudi Arabia has launched new nature safari
and birdwatching projects to promote sustainable tourism and environmental
conservation. These initiatives aim to transform areas of great environmental
value into sustainable tourist destinations, promoting protection of ecosystems
and responsible use of natural resources.
Read the full article
Oceania
Wollongong, a model of sustainable tourism and environmental showcasing
The Wollongong Botanic Garden is evolving through new sustainable initiatives including themed markets, festivals and environmental education programmes. These proposals are designed to consolidate the Garden’s status as a centre for ecotourism and nature education while staying true to its environmental values.
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