Sustainability news October n. 3
19 October 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Italy
Tuscia Route 01 and 35 new public artworks: this is what Civita, Capital of Contemporary Art 2028, will look like
Civita di Bagnoregio and Bolsena are getting ready to become a widespread museum thanks to 35 permanent artworks and Tuscia Route 01, a 15 km cycling and walking route. The initiative promotes slow, sustainable tourism, involving international artists and young talents, and aims to create a lasting cultural legacy.
Wellbeing and sustainability: Italy's protected areas become open-air gyms
The 'Nature and Movement' project, promoted by the Italian Ministry of the Environment, turns protected areas into spaces for physical activity and environmental education, promoting slow tourism and the protection of biodiversity. Involving national parks and marine areas, the initiative offers sporting and sensory experiences for all ages, fostering a responsible relationship with nature.
It looks like a fairy-tale kingdom but it is in Italy: the village of wonders, perfect for autumn
Sant’Angelo di Roccalvecce, in the Viterbo area of Tuscia, has been transformed into an open-air museum thanks to an art project that has countered depopulation. With more than fifty murals and installations inspired by children's literature, the village attracts tourists and boosts the local economy, showing how public art can preserve the identity of small towns.
‘Forca Canapine 365’ Consortium. Towards approval of its statute. Tourism to revive the area
The 'Forca Canapine 365' Consortium aims to relaunch the area between Marche and Umbria with a sustainable tourism model active all year round. The initiative seeks to diversify the tourism offer, enhancing natural and cultural heritage, and to promote post-earthquake economic and social regeneration.
“Castles really exist, beyond fairy tales”: Forbes crowns Emilia-Romagna and unveils its dream castles
Emilia-Romagna has been recognised by Forbes as an ideal destination for slow, sustainable tourism, thanks to the Castles of the Duchy circuit. This model of proximity tourism enhances historical and artistic heritage, supports local economies and promotes cultural conservation.
What the experts say about the future of the oceans and the real risks for those who live on Italy's coasts
Italy faces significant challenges due to global warming, with rising sea levels and ocean acidification threatening coasts and biodiversity. Experts stress the need for adaptation strategies and sustainable management of marine resources, while also pointing to new opportunities in marine biology and environmental technologies.
IILA sustainable agriculture projects in Honduras
Cooperation between Italy and Honduras focuses on developing sustainable and resilient agriculture, with innovative projects such as solar irrigation and aquaponics. These initiatives aim to strengthen the coffee and cocoa supply chains and to create a cocoa-themed tourist itinerary, promoting an integrated model of rural development and sustainable tourism.
Climate: Nicoletti, on sustainable development issues tourism is not the problem
The mayor of Matera, Antonio Nicoletti, highlighted how tourism can be a resource for the sustainable development of cities. During Brussels Climate Week, he presented strategies to spread tourist flows across the seasons and distribute visitors, promoting a more balanced and inclusive management model.
Sustainable tourism: Visit Emilia achieves GSTC certification
The Emilia Tourist Destination has obtained certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, becoming the largest certified sustainable tourism destination in the Western world. This recognition rewards its commitment to promoting tourism that respects the environment and local communities, through initiatives such as KilometroVerdeParma and Reggio 2030.
Expanding boundaries to promote sustainable tourism
Gran Paradiso National Park, the oldest in Italy, is expanding for the first time in 104 years, taking in new territories in Piedmont. The initiative aims to strengthen environmental protection and promote sustainable tourism, with the support of local administrations and the Piedmont Region.
News from around the world
Americas
Argentina
Long weekend: Corrientes reached 72% hotel occupancy driven by ecotourism and fishing
During the long weekend of 12 October, Corrientes recorded 72% hotel occupancy, thanks to ecotourism and sport fishing. The Iberá Wetlands and the towns along the Paraná River were the main attractions, highlighting the potential of sustainable tourism in the region.
Chile
Huilo Huilo wins the South American Responsible Tourism award for the second consecutive year
The Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve in Chile has won the South American Responsible Tourism award for the second year in a row, thanks to its active conservation model that combines environmental protection and sustainable development. The reserve promotes biodiversity protection and the enhancement of local resources, creating economic opportunities for communities.
Colombia
Selfie leads researchers onto the trail of a sensational discovery
A photo on Instagram led to the discovery of a new species of giant water lily in the rainforests of Colombia. Collaboration between botanical experts and Indigenous communities made it possible to document the species, now critically endangered, and to launch conservation initiatives that could benefit local ecotourism.
Peru
Peru is chosen South America's leading destination and wins six World Travel Awards 2026 prizes, after competing in 21 nominated categories
Peru won six awards at the World Travel Awards 2026, including Best Destination in South America, thanks to its commitment to sustainable tourism. The recognition of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu underlines the importance of protecting natural and cultural heritage while promoting opportunities for local communities.
United States
Florida Reveals How Palm Beach County’s Spectacular Sea Turtle Wonderland Is Transforming Coastal Travel And Unlocking New Eco-Tourism Experiences
Palm Beach County in Florida has been recognised as the Sea Turtle Capital thanks to its conservation programmes and habitat protection. These initiatives not only safeguard marine biodiversity but also promote ecotourism and local economic development, raising visitor awareness and creating opportunities for local communities.
Asia
Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam (Mekong region)
Mekong region turns rainy season into tourism draw
The Mekong region is turning the rainy season into an opportunity for sustainable tourism, showcasing natural landscapes and promoting cultural and culinary experiences. This strategy aims to spread tourist flows throughout the year, supporting rural economies and enhancing cultural and natural heritage.
Indonesia
Sumatran and Javan rhinos: a race against time to prevent their extinction
Sumatran and Javan rhinos are among the most threatened species in the world. In Indonesia, sanctuaries and conservation programmes have been established to protect these species from extinction. Despite new births, the situation remains critical and calls for urgent action such as the fight against poaching and the protection of natural habitats.
Malaysia
Glamping continues to draw visitors in Selangor
Glamping in Selangor, Malaysia, is growing as a sustainable tourism segment, combining nature and comfort. This trend supports rural economies by involving local communities and promoting collaborations for safe, high-quality experiences.
Europe
Croatia
Tourism: Dubrovnik says goodbye to overtourism, a winning model of sustainability
Dubrovnik has received the title of 'Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2026' for its innovative strategies against overtourism. Through the 'Respect the City' project, the city has implemented digital systems to monitor tourist flows, regulated cruise ship arrivals and promoted sustainable mobility. Initiatives such as the Dubrovnik Pass and electric car sharing are examples of how the city is improving residents' quality of life and preserving its cultural heritage.
France
Climate, budget, new desires: holidays are changing model
During the Big Bang Voyage 2026 event, industry experts discussed how tourism in France will evolve towards more sustainable models, with growing attention to reducing environmental impact and to affordability. An increase in short, local holidays is expected, along with the use of technology for more accessible tourism and a focus on personalised and sustainable experiences.
Spain
Furious crowds protest sky-high housing costs and mass tourism in major city
In Spain, protests against high housing costs and mass tourism highlight the need for a more sustainable tourism model. Barcelona has introduced measures such as a higher tourist tax and limits on cruise tourism to reduce tourist pressure and improve residents' quality of life.
Teulada completes 13 projects with a €2 million investment to move towards more sustainable tourism
Teulada-Moraira has completed a €2 million tourism sustainability plan, funded by the EU, to promote more sustainable and innovative tourism. The initiatives include a solar lighting system, an eco-cycle path and digital tools to improve accessibility and reduce environmental impact.
Eco-Scenarios
The eco-tourism projects turning fishermen and poachers into environmental guardians
Ecotourism is emerging as a key tool for protecting biodiversity and developing local communities, offering new economic opportunities to those once involved in activities harmful to the environment. Initiatives such as Project Hiu in Indonesia and Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia show how sustainable tourism can turn former exploiters of natural resources into protagonists of their protection.
WWF report: These species show that species conservation can work
WWF's Living Planet Report 2026 highlights the success of targeted interventions in the conservation of species such as tigers, bluefin tuna and green turtles. These results underline the importance of international cooperation and of regulating human activities to protect habitats and involve local communities.
Travelling in 2027: here are the seven trends that could change your next holidays
Expedia Group's Horizons 2027 report highlights growing interest in less conventional destinations and micro-holidays, which promote authentic cultural and nature-based experiences. These trends reflect tourism oriented towards the quality of experiences and the discovery of alternative places, valuing personal interests and well-being.
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