Sustainability News September 2025 N.5
29 September 2025
Reseach Office: Sustainability news, Sustainability news 2025
News from Italy
The ‘100 most beautiful roads project’, a new model for sustainable tourism in Italy
The ‘100 most beautiful roads in Italy’ project aims to showcase cultural and scenic routes and promote sustainable tourism. The Strada dei Ciclamini in Lombardy, the first to achieve certification, is a 60-km trail through historic villages and nature parks, featuring excellent local agri-food products.
Authentic Italy, far from mass tourism: new trends among Italian travellers
A recent study reveals that 75% of Italians prefer local-area tourism, which promotes exploration, culture and sustainability, contributing to the local economy and respect for communities.
Tourism: Veneto is the top region for cyclists
Veneto is distinguishing itself as Italy’s leading cycle tourism destination thanks to a 1430-km network of trails and a strategic position on European routes. A study by Unioncamere del Veneto highlights the importance of cycle tourism for the local economy, despite some critical issues in transport and signposting.
Strategic Tourism Plan 2023-2027: deseasonalisation and delocalisation
Italy’s new Strategic Tourism Plan aims to promote sustainable tourism through deseasonalisation and delocalisation. It aims is to distribute tourist flows throughout the year and showcase lesser-known destinations, thus reducing pressure on the most crowded destinations. The plan includes grassroots tourism initiatives, like walks and cycle paths, and promotes sustainable practices to combine economic growth and environmental protection.
Sustainable initiatives in the botanical gardens of Ischia and Capri
The third edition of the ‘Coltivare il Futuro’ (cultivating the future) convention is focusing on botanical collections in seaside gardens, promoting a multidisciplinary approach that combines nature, culture and sustainable tourism. The event, supported by the Campania Region and various local authorities, aims to showcase gardens as places of identity and knowledge within the Mediterranean.
News from around the world
The Americas
Bolivia and Perù
Urgent initiatives to halt pollution of Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca, which is shared by Bolivia and Peru, is threatened by irreversible damage due to pollution. Completion of treatment facilities and the promotion of responsible tourism are crucial in order to preserve biodiversity and water quality.
Perù
UNESCO award for the Colca and Andagua Volcanoes Geopark
The Colca and Andagua Volcanoes Geopark in Peru has received the UNESCO Green Card, confirming its excellence in sustainable management. This award underlines the importance of cooperation between local communities and authorities for the promotion of geotourism and conservation of natural and cultural heritage.
Canada
Dark sky tourism in Canada: exploring unpolluted night skies in a unique ecotourism experience
Dark sky tourism in Canada is on the rise, combining astral beauty with environmental sustainability. Locations such as Yellowknife and national parks provide unique experiences, raising awareness of the importance of protecting nocturnal ecosystems and promoting responsible lighting practices. This tourism model generates economic opportunities in remote areas, combining conservation, education and economics.
Aruba
A global study has revealed that travellers seek responsible tourism, yet 77% say they have no guidance
Aruba’s Responsible Tourism Impact Report has highlighted a growing demand for responsible tourism, with 96% of travellers considering it essential. However, 77% complain of a lack of guidance on how to have a positive impact. The Aruba Tourism Authority aims to transform tourism into a regenerative model, with biodiversity and clean energy initiatives
Asia
China
China’s biosphere reserves are proof that humans and nature can thrive together
China’s biosphere reserves, part of the UNESCO MAB programme, are proof of how man and nature can thrive together. With 34 reserves, China stands apart for its use of digital technologies in ecosystem management, fostering international cooperation and environmental education.
The Philippines
Artificial intelligence and circular economies: a new future for the coconut industry
The integration of artificial intelligence into the circular economy in the coconut industry in the Philippines is transforming local economies. The ILO’s Digital-PINAS programme is helping small-scale farmers make use of all parts of the coconut, reducing waste and diversifying incomes while promoting sustainable, zero-waste tourism.
India
New GST rates in New Delhi for a sustainable cultural tourism ecosystem
Reducing GST rates in India is encouraging sustainable tourism by making stays more affordable and incentivising use of public transport. These measures also support ecotourism and preservation of cultural heritage, promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.
World Rhino Day: six more rhinos to be released into the wild
In honour of World Rhino Day, six new rhinos will be released into the Tiger Reserve in Dudhwa, India. This project, supported by the Department of Tourism and the Eco Tourism Development Board, aims to promote nature-based, sustainable tourism, showcasing local culture and contributing to wildlife conservation.
Indonesia
Protecting whale sharks for ocean health and food security
Protecting whale sharks is essential in Indonesia for healthy marine ecosystems and blue food security. The 2021-2025 National Action Plan aims to improve tourism management and stranding responses, with the support of organisations such as Konservasi Indonesia.
Malaysia
World Tourism Day 2025 in Malaysia, with the theme of sustainability
World Tourism Day 2025, celebrated in Melaka, Malaysia, is highlighting the importance of regenerative tourism, promoting environmental sustainability, social equity and economic resilience. The event emphasises the need for inclusive tourism models and investment in green infrastructure and digital technologies to protect ecosystems and local communities.
Thailand
The ‘Thai’d Up This Summer’ campaign promotes inclusive and sustainable tourism in Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s ‘Thai’d Up This Summer’ campaign has created a travel experience that weaves culture, nature and creativity into a sustainable approach. Thailand is positioning itself as an inclusive and responsible destination through its authentic storytelling and interactive workshops.
Europe
Europe Train Travel: new routes for 2026
Rail tourism in Europe is undergoing a renaissance thanks to new routes promoting sustainable and authentic travel. The expansion of routes and diversified services spanning luxury and affordability are attracting more and more travellers despite the infrastructural challenges.
Green light for high-speed train project to link European capitals
The European high-speed rail network project aims to connect EU capitals with fast trains, reducing air travel and environmental impact. With an investment of 546 billion euros, the initiative promotes sustainability and geographical connectivity, offering environmental and geopolitical benefits.
France
France makes hotel eco-certification mandatory by 2026
France is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism by introducing mandatory eco-certification for all hotels by 2026. This initiative, part of the Climate and Resilience Act, aims to reduce the environmental impact of the hospitality industry through assessments of energy, water and waste management. The government is supporting the transition with sizeable subsidies, fostering a competitive and sustainable tourism model.
Oceania
Australia
Noosa launches a community-led destination management plan
Noosa’s Destination Management Plan aims to balance tourism growth with environmental protection and local lifestyle through a community participatory process. Its priorities include environmental protection, housing and traffic management, and aligning tourism with community values.
Eco-Scenarios
Chocolate tourism, a unique opportunity for travel and culture
Chocolate tourism is emerging as a growing segment combining sensory enjoyment, culture and sustainability. It promotes local economies and responsible agricultural practices through experiences such as plantation visits and workshops, offering a model of sustainable tourism supporting local traditions and fair trade.
Nature tourism as a driver for economic and social development
The World Bank study highlights how nature tourism, if well managed, can generate income and opportunities for local communities while funding biodiversity conservation. Coordinated investments and public-private partnerships are essential in order to transform tourism into a pillar of the global GDP.
The rise of literary tourism
Literary tourism is emerging as a form of experiential tourism combining culture, wellness and community. This trend promotes authentic and sustainable experiences, reinventing literature as an immersive and enriching journey. Accommodation facilities and literary festivals are integrating sustainable practices and innovative technologies to offer unique cultural experiences.
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