Sustainability News October 2025 N.4
27 October 2025
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2025
News from Italy
Camping tourism in Italy, a booming industry driving the economy
Camping tourism in Italy is experiencing significant growth, focusing on authentic and sustainable experiences. Tuscany and other Italian regions are promoting glamping, that combines proximity to nature with luxury, in line with environmental sustainability goals.
Tourism and the environment: Ischia pushes for the Epomeo Natural Park
The Monte Epomeo Natural Park project in Ischia aims to transform the island into a model of sustainable tourism, reducing coastal pressure and promoting slow tourism. The initiative, involving young people and institutions, aims to create new educational and employment opportunities, integrating nature and culture.
National Urban Trekking Day, 31 October, walking along the ‘paths’ of villages and towns
Urban trekking, started in Siena in 2003, is a form of sustainable tourism that invites people to explore towns and villages on foot, combining sport, culture and exploration. Italy’s National Urban Trekking Day, on 31 October, is bringing together 85 Italian municipalities and features routes interweaving faith, art and nature, promoting mindful and respectful travel.
MetodoContemporaneo: routes through art, wine and landscapes at 14 wineries from Alto Adige to Sicily
The MetodoContemporaneo initiative is transforming Italian wineries into cultural centres, promoting sustainable tourism that integrates art, architecture and wine-growing landscapes. Its aim is to reduce the impact of tourism and showcase Italy’s landscape heritage through participatory and responsible models.
Sardinia goes to Australia: introducing the Longevity Project
The Longevity Project aims to create a cultural bridge between Sardinia and Australia, inspired by the island’s longevity principles. Events and workshops foster a sustainable, community-based wellness model, developing experiential tourism and intercultural relations.
News from around the world
The Americas
Colombia
Murillo, rated Colombia’s ‘Best Tourist Village 2025’ by the UN
Murillo, at the foot of Nevado del Ruiz, has received an award from the United Nations for its sustainable tourism model integrating nature, culture and community. Initiatives such as reforestation and reduction of single-use plastics, together with the showcasing of rural heritage have made Murillo an example of tourism in harmony with the environment.
Asia
Indonesia
The village of Kwau, a model of community-based tourism in Manokwari
The village of Kwau, West Papua, is an example of sustainable community-based tourism where the local community manages and develops tourism with respect for the environment and culture. Initiatives such as vocational training and local craftsmanship enrich the tourist experience, promoting autonomy and collective welfare.
Christmas Island: red crab migration and travel disruption show a commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation
Christmas Island, off the coast of Indonesia, plays host to the red crab migration, an annual event promoting sustainable tourism, with innovative infrastructure and conservation of biodiversity. Visitors are invited to share in the experience respectfully and mindfully, becoming temporary guardians of nature.
Maldives
Maldives crowned ‘Best Beach Destination’ at the World Tourism Awards 2025
The Maldives won ‘Best Beach Destination’ at the 2025 World Tourism Awards thanks to their commitment to the conservation of coral reefs and marine life as well as partnerships fostering responsible tourism.
Malaysia
Gen Z ditches the party islands in favour of Penang, a hidden paradise for solo travellers
Penang, Malaysia, is emerging as Generation Z’s destination of choice for solo travel due to its commitment to sustainable tourism. The island offers a safe, authentic environment with ecotourism initiatives such as the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve and Penang National Park, which promote a mindful, eco-friendly travel experience.
Vietnam
Vietnamese village emerges as an ecotourism hub offering art and sustainability
The Cu Lac - Ngu My Thanh mural road in Vietnam is an ecotourism model combining art and sustainability. Thanks to support from the WWF, the village has become a beacon of environmental awareness, promoting sustainable and plastic-free living.
Europe
Target 2050: European cities want ‘balanced’ tourism that works for their citizens
European cities are aiming for sustainable tourism by 2050, integrating strategies that balance economic growth with the well-being of residents. The initiative, discussed at the Global Tourism Forum, aims to overcome mass tourism by fostering an approach that focuses on balancing the social, environmental and cultural dimensions of destinations.
Spain
La Siberia Biosphere Reserve in Extremadura achieves Starlight Tourist Destination status
The Siberia Biosphere Reserve has been awarded Starlight certification in recognition of the quality of its night skies and its commitment to sustainable tourism. This accolade promotes astrotourism, combining stargazing, environmental education and local development.
Proximity tourism takes root as the favourite option for Spanish travellers
In Spain, proximity tourism has established itself as the number-one choice among travellers, with over 55% of home swaps taking place within the country. This model, promoted by HomeExchange, encourages sustainable and responsible tourism while reducing environmental impact and promoting authentic experiences.
Eco-scenarios
Mass tourism threatens six emerging destinations in Europe, Asia and Latin America
Mass tourism is jeopardising the sustainability of destinations in Europe, Asia and Latin America. The Time Out report highlights a need to practice more mindful tourism in order to protect the environment and local communities.
Cycle tourism market on track for global growth, with key opportunities in Europe and North America
Bicycle tourism is growing rapidly as a key segment of sustainable tourism, promoting authentic, environmentally friendly experiences. With a growing market, bicycle tourism encourages connection with local communities and mindful exploration of local areas, supported by green policies and new forms of hospitality.
Small wildlife and the ‘little five’ safaris: the infinitely small set a new trend in wildlife tourism
Small wildlife safaris, shining a spotlight on the so-called ‘Little Five’, are an evolution in nature tourism, fostering sustainability and environmental awareness. This approach invites exploration of biodiversity through micro-safaris, encouraging closer and more mindful contact with nature.
UN Tourism launches online courses to empower rural communities in sustainable tourism development
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation has introduced free MOOCs to support rural communities in developing sustainable tourism. These courses, available in English and Spanish, offer tools for creating authentic tourist experiences, fostering environmental protection and local economic development.
Travel trends for 2026 revealed, including reading retreats
The Expedia Group’s Unpack ‘26 report, supported by WTTC, explores future trends in global tourism, highlighting the importance of sustainability, experiential travel and regeneration. Emerging trends include slow tourism and farm stays, reflecting a growing interest in authentic experiences and mental well-being.
Become a ‘scientist’ in the heart of nature: the new travel trend for 2026
Participatory science tourism turns travellers into researchers, contributing to environmental protection. From coral reefs to national parks, tourists can collect data for conservation, while astrotourism helps combat light pollution.
‘Destination-based running’, the new trend combining sport, tourism and sustainability
The ‘race-cation’ trend combines sport, travel and sustainability, transforming marathons into cultural and wellness experiences. These events promote environmentally sustainable practices and support local economies, turning running an act of connection and respect for the environment.
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Elaborata da Extreme Srl per Enit SpA