Sustainability news October n. 4
26 October 2026
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2026
News from Italy
Slow Food Cosenza is born, a new community to promote the area, its produce and its food culture
The founding of the Slow Food Cosenza Convivium marks an important step for sustainable tourism in Calabria, promoting biodiversity and territorial development through the involvement of local communities. The initiative aims to protect local crop varieties, support small producers and develop forms of slow, responsible tourism rooted in the area's traditions.
Railway, cycle path, bridges. The transport network to come: "Ascoli better connected for tourism and the economy"
In Ascoli Piceno, the focus is on improving sustainable mobility through the Tronto Valley cycle route and the development of the Railway of the Two Seas. These initiatives aim to enhance the area's landscape and cultural heritage, promoting cycle tourism and new economic opportunities.
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Workshops and games with animals: how the Bioparco teaches respect for the planet
The Bioparco di Roma, in collaboration with the Lazio Region, launches the project “Bioparco for the Planet – One Health Experience”. The initiative aims to raise awareness of human health, animal welfare and the protection of ecosystems through interactive and scientific activities. The programme includes workshops, games, meetings and an escape room dedicated to endangered species, promoting responsible behaviour towards nature.
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Valdichiana Aretina: 7 villages, food and wine excellence and outdoor activities
The Valdichiana Aretina promotes slow, sustainable tourism through a project involving seven Tuscan villages. The initiative aims to bring together historical heritage, local traditions and outdoor activities, with a focus on food and wine and nature trails. This model of high-quality experiential tourism aims at longer, more mindful stays.
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Autumn in Monferrato among villages, infernot and colourful vineyards
Autumn turns Monferrato into an ideal destination for sustainable tourism, thanks to the foliage phenomenon that colours its vineyards and hills. The initiative by Alexala invites visitors to discover the area along scenic routes on foot or by bike, enhancing the local landscape and cultural heritage, including the infernot, recognised by UNESCO.
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The autumn train crossing villages and fairytale landscapes: three dates to travel for free among the colours of the foliage
The Ferrovie dello Stato Group launches the Espresso Antichi Cammini d'Italia, an initiative that promotes slow tourism and the discovery of Lazio's cultural heritage. With three free journeys between Rome and Viterbo, participants can explore the autumn landscapes and historic villages, combining rail transport with bus connections to evocative destinations. This project exemplifies the integration of sustainable transport and the enhancement of historic pilgrim routes, encouraging year-round tourism and reducing the use of private cars.
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News from around the world
Africa
Tanzania
UNESCO and TUI Care Foundation support the safeguarding of Taarab music in Tanzania
In Zanzibar, UNESCO and the TUI Care Foundation are working together to safeguard Taarab music, combining the protection of cultural heritage with the development of sustainable tourism. The project involves local communities and artists, promoting authentic cultural experiences and creating economic opportunities for young people and women.
Americas
Colombia
Isagen's Topocoro reservoir: where birdwatching is a source of livelihood
The "Topocoro Community Birdwatching Route" project in Colombia promotes sustainable tourism by turning bird biodiversity into economic opportunities for local communities. It brings together tourism activities, habitat restoration and integration with sustainable agriculture, consolidating Santander as a nature destination.
The Bogotá neighbourhood that preserves the chicha tradition and celebrates a little-known festival
In the La Perseverancia neighbourhood of Bogotá, the Chicha Festival celebrates the traditional fermented-corn drink, promoting local cultural and gastronomic heritage. The event, which involves the community and highlights the role of women in preserving traditions, is a model of sustainable tourism that strengthens the sense of belonging and offers authentic experiences.
United States
An Oregon trail aims to bring a Camino-style peace pilgrimage to the coast
The Oregon Peace Trail is a new route that promotes sustainable tourism through a 160 km (100-mile) path along the Oregon coast. Inspired by the Camino de Santiago, the project combines walking, reflection and the promotion of peace, involving local communities and making use of existing infrastructure. The initiative aims to encourage responsible tourism and generate local economic benefits.
Asia
China
The 4th Liangzhu Forum opens in Hangzhou to foster global dialogue on heritage
The 4th Liangzhu Forum in Hangzhou promotes global dialogue on the protection of cultural heritage, combining historical conservation with sustainable tourism development. The event explores the use of innovative technologies and the involvement of local communities to enhance historic sites without compromising their integrity.
Japan
After Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, Singaporeans explore Japan's lesser-known regions
Travellers from Singapore are discovering Japan's lesser-known regions, such as Kyushu and Hokkaido, through slow and immersive tourism experiences. This trend supports Japan's strategy of decongesting crowded destinations and promoting sustainable tourism, spreading economic benefits and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of rural communities.
India
Odisha Forest Department identifies 12 sites for adventure ecotourism
The Odisha Forest Department has identified 12 sites for developing adventure ecotourism, promoting low-impact activities and involving local communities in new economic opportunities. The initiative aims to combine responsible tourism with forest conservation.
From air to water: Shillong's new water harvesting installation at Ward's Lake
Shillong's Ward's Lake has introduced an innovative system that turns atmospheric humidity into drinking water, promoting the use of reusable bottles and reducing single-use plastic consumption. The project is part of a global trend towards alternative technologies for the sustainable management of water resources.
Türkiye
With 29 designated Cittaslow cities, Türkiye is leading the way in slow travel
Türkiye promotes sustainable tourism through its 29 Cittaslow cities, offering authentic experiences far from mass tourism. The initiative supports local economies and encourages travel that respects the environment and communities.
Europe
Why 2027 will be the year of birdwatching holidays, and where to watch birds in Europe
2027 will see significant growth in birdwatching tourism in Europe, driven by the slow tourism trend and the popularity of the #BirdTok phenomenon. Destinations such as the Danube Delta, north-eastern Greece and the Westman Islands in Iceland are becoming favourite spots for nature and biodiversity enthusiasts.
Europe reaches 1,000 EU Ecolabel accommodations in 16 countries as sustainable tourism expands
European tourism celebrates a significant milestone with 1,000 EU Ecolabel-certified accommodations in 16 countries, showing a growing commitment to environmental sustainability. The certification attests compliance with strict environmental criteria, promoting more conscious and sustainable travel choices.
France
Cenne-Monestiés, a "citizen laboratory of local transition"
The municipality of Cenne-Monestiés, in southern France, stands out for its participatory approach to the ecological transition. During the national TEPOS days, the village showed how collaboration between citizens, associations and local authorities can promote sustainability through renewable energy, sustainable mobility and responsible tourism projects.
Summer tourism figures are in the green
The Pays Horloger in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté saw an increase in summer tourism thanks to its cool climate and outdoor activities, promoting local and sustainable tourism.
Germany
Sustainable tourism needs strong public transport
At a conference in Heringsdorf, the importance of improving public transport to promote sustainable tourism was stressed. The island of Usedom, with a high influx of tourists arriving by car, needs better rail connections and local services to reduce congestion and encourage the use of public transport.
United Kingdom
Scotland's Dumfries and Galloway earns National Geographic recognition for stargazing, cycling and hiking
The Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland has been recognised by National Geographic for its sustainable tourism opportunities, thanks to its unspoilt landscapes and activities such as stargazing and cycling. This recognition could promote slow tourism, benefiting local communities and preserving ecosystems.
Spain
Foios takes part in Miradors de l'Horta 2026 with two art installations that highlight the Horta
The Miradors de l'Horta 2026 festival in Foios, Spain, combines contemporary art and sustainable tourism to promote the protection of the agricultural landscape. Through art installations, guided bike tours and cultural activities, the initiative raises awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability and local cultural heritage.
A route to keep the mining heritage alive
The third edition of Bideberdeate promotes sustainable tourism through the Monte de Hierro Greenway in the Basque Country. The initiative showcases the mining heritage with accessible routes and cultural activities, combining inclusion and local development.
Ibero-American cultural routes and itineraries, a new bridge between the two shores of the Atlantic
The OEI has launched the Ibero-American Programme for Cultural Itineraries, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism by enhancing the cultural heritage shared between Europe and Latin America. The project, backed by Spain, aims to create a certification system for cultural itineraries including gastronomic, scenic and nature routes, fostering territorial development and social cohesion.
Eco-Scenarios
Slow travel: what it is and how to travel more consciously and sustainably
Slow tourism promotes authentic and sustainable travel experiences, encouraging travelers to choose less hectic itineraries and to support local economies. Initiatives such as the IATI Travel Shakers Marine Camp in Mexico show the importance of a conscious approach to discovering and conserving ecosystems.
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