Sustainability News September 2025 N.3
15 September 2025
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2025
News from Italy
Italy
Explore urban caving in Corato and its educational potential
Underground Corato offers a rare example of urban caving, with tunnels dating back to the early 1900s. Guided tours, as part of the Corato Museum System, promote sustainable tourism while showcasing the local cultural heritage.
The Cycle Tourism Show, a triennial event in Padua
The Cycle Tourism Show will be held in Padua from 2026 to 2028, confirming the Veneto region as a beacon for sustainable cycle tourism. This UN-awarded event promotes cycling routes and modern infrastructure, contributing to innovative and responsible tourism.
Explore Lazio through a series combining tradition and sustainability
Le vie del Giubileo (The Jubilee Routes), produced by Gambero Rosso, explores Lazio beyond Rome, showcasing local agri-food supply chains and promoting slow and inclusive tourism. In six episodes, the series invites you to explore villages and abbeys, interweaving spirituality and authentic local flavours.
Braille guide for inclusive exploration of Florence
The ‘Florence in Relief’ guide offers a unique sensory experience for the blind and visually impaired, offering three-dimensional panels and texts in Braille. This project, supported by the Italian Ministry of Tourism, promotes sustainable and inclusive tourism, making the city accessible to all.
News from around the world
Africa
Zimbabwe
World Tourism Expo in Zimbabwe, shining a spotlight on sustainable development
The Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo in Zimbabwe focuses on rural and community tourism and ecotourism to promote local development and safeguard natural and cultural heritage. The event aims to strengthen communities and ensure direct benefits for local populations.
South Africa
Tourism Investment Forum in South Africa, building a competitive ecosystem
The Tourism Investment Forum in South Africa highlighted the role of sustainable tourism in the economy, introducing guidelines for responsible investment and announcing scholarships for young talent.
The Americas
United States of America
Positively impacting local economies and promoting sustainable practices
The Atlantic Festival 2025 in New York celebrates global culture while also promoting responsible tourism. The event encourages use of public transport and participation in eco-friendly events, contributing to the revival of local tourism in a sustainable way.
Costa Rica
International Conference on Sustainable Tourism in Costa Rica
A manifesto on preventing community displacement and ensure decent housing by tackling gentrification was presented at the P3 conference. the experience in Monteverde demonstrates that clear rules can mitigate the negative effects of tourism, transforming it into an ally for local communities.
Asia
China
Technological upgrading for sustainable tourism in Hong Kong
Hong Kong needs to improve its digital literacy and adopt advanced technologies in order to achieve smart tourism goals. Integration of AI, big data and digital assets can support the development of ecotourism and attract new incoming tourists, promoting biodiversity and local culture.
India
Initiative to protect coastal communities and promote sustainable tourism
The World Bank has launched a 212.64 million USD programme to improve the resilience of coastal communities in India, focusing on Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The initiative aims to protect marine ecosystems, reduce plastic pollution and create job opportunities in sustainable tourism, involving women in particular.
Europe
Evolving sustainable tourism through carbon capture technologies
Europe is investing in carbon capture technologies to reduce the environmental impact of tourism. Countries such as Norway, Sweden and Germany are integrating these technologies into their strategies, promoting more mindful and sustainable tourism. Cities like Berlin and Amsterdam are leading the way in adopting environmentally friendly solutions, while Norway is distinguishing itself with its low-emission ecotourism.
Greece
Authentic and sustainable experiences for Norwegian tourists in Greece
Greece has established itself in the Scandinavian market thanks to ecotourism packages enhancing biodiversity and promoting contact with local communities. The Greek National Tourist Board has developed an offering that includes cultural tours and proposals for all seasons, responding to a growing demand for responsible tourism.
Spain
Proposed ban on smoking and vaping in public open spaces
Spain is introducing a ban on smoking and vaping in outdoor public spaces to promote healthier and more sustainable tourism. This initiative aims to create cleaner and safer environments, enhancing the travel experience and positioning the country as a responsible and wellness-conscious destination.
Five-year plan for a sustainable destination in Gavà
Gavà is distinguishing itself in Catalonia through a five-year plan promoting sustainable tourism by showcasing cuisine, sports and local events. The initiative aims to confirm Gavà’s status as a quality destination by avoiding mass tourism and opting for a responsible and sustainable model.
The ‘Pedal Spain’ project, for sustainable cycle tourism in the Iberian Peninsula
Spain is launching the ‘Pedal Spain’ project, financed by Next Generation European funding, in a bid to become a leading cycle tourism destination. Through an investment of 881,000 euros, the project aims to create a National Coordination Centre for Cycle Tourism and a digital platform providing routes and services, culminating in the first national cycle tourism fair in Zaragoza.
Czech Republic
Developing domestic tourism and supporting local businesses
Autumn tourism in the Czech Republic is transorming thanks to a focus on outdoor activities, sustainable travel choices and cultural experiences. Travellers prefer eco-friendly accommodation and choose to support local businesses, reflecting a new attitude to responsible tourism.
Finland
Helsinki integrates data centres into its clean energy system
Helsinki is making its mark in sustainable tourism by integrating data centres into its clean energy systems. The heat generated is collected and used for district heating, thereby reducing environmental impact and improving comfort for residents and tourists. This innovative model, led by the Helen energy company, is positioning Helsinki as model of future-oriented ecotourism.
France
Debate on growth and environmental protection at the World Travel Summit
From 29 to 31 October 2025, Paris will host the A World for Travel Summit, an event bringing global leaders together to discuss sustainability, artificial intelligence and regenerative tourism. The summit aims to reconcile economic growth and environmental protection by promoting practices that regenerate communities and ecosystems.
Austria
Vienna increases tourist tax to improve infrastructure and public services
Vienna has decided to increase its tourist tax from 3.2% to 8.5% to generate funds for improving infrastructure and public services while tackling tourism pressure and promoting sustainable environmental initiatives.
Eco-Scenarios
The growth of experiential tourism and the demand for authentic experiences
Experiential tourism is growing in popularity, offering travellers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the everyday life of local communities. Countries including India, Japan and Thailand are promoting programmes that foster direct contact with local cultures, supporting the economies of host communities and promoting more sustainable and responsible tourism.
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