it.euronews.com
EU Launches Consultation on Sustainable Tourism Strategy to Combat Overtourism
EU Commissioner Apóstolos Tzitzikóstas announced a new strategy to combat overtourism in Europe, prompted by resident protests in Spain and elsewhere, focusing on sustainable practices, stakeholder consultation, and cross-border transport improvements.
- What actions will the EU take to address overtourism in popular destinations, and what specific impacts are expected?
- The EU's first Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apóstolos Tzitzikóstas, announced a broad consultation on a new strategy to address overtourism, citing resident protests in key destinations due to overcrowding, high accommodation costs, and environmental strain. He highlighted anti-tourism movements in Spain as a significant concern.
- How will the EU's approach to sustainable tourism funding contribute to resolving the issue of overtourism, and what are the challenges?
- Commissioner Tzitzikóstas's strategy focuses on responsible tourism development, attracting visitors seeking authentic experiences, supporting local businesses, and encouraging off-season travel to lesser-known locations. This approach aims to alleviate overtourism's negative impacts while promoting sustainable practices.
- What long-term implications could this EU strategy have on the European tourism industry and the experience of both residents and visitors?
- The upcoming EU strategy on sustainable tourism will prioritize stakeholder consultations to define its direction, particularly regarding funding mechanisms. The strategy's success hinges on effective collaboration across sectors and government levels, with the Commissioner emphasizing seamless cross-border travel initiatives to enhance the visitor experience.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely positive, highlighting the commissioner's proactive approach and commitment to sustainable tourism. The headline (if any) would heavily influence the framing; a positive headline would reinforce this positive bias. The article focuses on the solutions proposed by the commissioner, potentially downplaying the severity of the problem itself.
Language Bias
The language used is mostly neutral and objective, reporting the commissioner's statements without overt bias. However, phrases like "exceptional" and "safe" in describing Europe as a travel destination could be considered slightly loaded, implying a subjective judgment. More neutral alternatives could include 'unique' and 'secure'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the commissioner's statements and plans, potentially omitting other perspectives from residents, businesses, or environmental groups directly affected by overtourism. While acknowledging protests, it doesn't delve into the specifics of those protests or the varied concerns of those involved. The lack of diverse voices might limit the reader's understanding of the complexity of the issue.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the EU's efforts to address overtourism, focusing on sustainable tourism practices. This directly relates to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The initiatives mentioned, such as promoting responsible tourism, supporting local businesses, and encouraging off-season travel, contribute to the sustainable development of tourism destinations, reducing the negative impacts of overtourism on communities and the environment. The focus on collaboration between stakeholders also aligns with the SDG's emphasis on partnerships.