kathimerini.gr
Europe Tackles Overtourism with Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
Several European countries are implementing new strategies to counter the negative impacts of overtourism, including Switzerland's Swisstainable initiative, Spain's crackdown on illegal Airbnb listings and influencer campaigns, and Berlin's rewards program for sustainable tourists.
- What immediate actions are European countries taking to address the negative impacts of overtourism?
- Overtourism" protests in popular European destinations highlighted the rising housing costs for locals and environmental, social, and economic pressures. This summer, however, new initiatives aim to balance tourism with residents' needs, such as Switzerland's Swisstainable strategy using hydroelectric energy for its national railway network and promoting off-season travel. Spain, a top destination for British tourists, is tackling overtourism by removing Airbnb listings, limiting influencer campaigns, and developing a digital platform monitoring beach crowds and environmental factors.
- What are the potential long-term effects and challenges of these sustainable tourism initiatives in Europe?
- The success of these strategies hinges on their long-term impact and adaptability. The measures taken will need to be monitored and possibly adjusted, while their effectiveness in mitigating overtourism and promoting sustainable practices will need to be assessed over time. These initiatives offer a glimpse into a potential future where tourism is managed more responsibly and sustainably, balancing economic benefits with environmental and social considerations.
- How are specific countries using innovative strategies to balance tourism with local needs and environmental protection?
- These initiatives in Switzerland, Spain, and Berlin demonstrate a shift toward sustainable tourism. Switzerland promotes off-season travel via campaigns featuring Roger Federer and extends the operating seasons of ski lifts and hotels. Spain actively manages tourism flow through digital monitoring and investment in cultural heritage via its Paradores network. Berlin incentivizes sustainable behavior by offering rewards for activities like tree planting and waste collection.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames overtourism as a significant problem that necessitates innovative solutions. While it acknowledges the popularity of these destinations, the framing emphasizes the need for sustainable practices and the initiatives taken to achieve this. The examples of Switzerland, Spain, and Berlin serve to illustrate successful strategies.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on solutions implemented by Switzerland, Spain, and Berlin to address overtourism, but it omits mentioning other European countries' efforts or broader global strategies to manage sustainable tourism. This omission might limit the scope of understanding regarding the overall response to overtourism.
Sustainable Development Goals
Initiatives in Switzerland, Spain, and Berlin aim to manage overtourism, focusing on sustainable practices and better distribution of tourists throughout the year and across different regions. This directly addresses the challenges of overtourism on urban environments and communities.