Tourism Innovation Summit 2024 highlights the latest trends in sustainability, reflecting a significant transformation in the travel industry. A recent market report reveals that 68% of tourists now prioritize sustainability and seek tools to make environmentally conscious decisions about their trips. Hotels are adopting green technologies, promoting the circular economy, and increasing awareness among travelers about the importance of respecting and preserving the destinations they visit.
Focus on Sustainability at TIS – Tourism Innovation Summit 2024
From October 23rd to 25th, Seville, Spain, will host the Tourism Innovation Summit (TIS) 2024, spotlighting sustainability as a key theme. This international event will explore strategies the tourism industry is employing to foster responsible and ethical tourism that minimizes environmental impact. Key topics include the implementation of technological solutions for transparent and conscious environmental measurements, reducing carbon footprints, and advancing ecotourism.
The summit will feature innovative sustainable tourism models from destinations like Iceland, Benidorm, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine, with insights from experts such as Snorri Valsson (Icelandic Tourist Board), Leire Bilbao (VisitBenidorm), and Miguel Figueroa (TUI Care Foundation). Additionally, cities like Rome, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Venice will discuss new tourism models designed to prevent overcrowding and ensure long-term sustainability.
Increasing Traveler Awareness and Smart Technologies
Today’s travelers are more conscious of their environmental impact and the importance of preserving the destinations they visit. To meet these evolving needs, tourism businesses are integrating smart technologies to promote sustainable practices and protect natural and cultural heritage. At TIS 2024, Alessandra Priante (ENIT), Andrew Agius Muscat (Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association), Carlos Costa (University of Aveiro), and Antonio Lopez De Avila (UNWTO) will discuss how Mediterranean destinations are leveraging innovation for sustainable growth and improved competitiveness.
Embracing Regenerative Tourism
Regenerative tourism, which involves visitors in the active improvement of destinations and local communities through sustainable practices, is gaining traction. This approach includes regenerative agriculture, community conservation projects, and travel practices that support biodiversity, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. Filippos Venetopoulos, CEO of Variety Cruises, will discuss the potential and future opportunities of regenerative tourism at the summit.
Circular Economy in Tourism
The circular economy, known for reducing pollution and carbon footprints while improving resource efficiency, is another growing trend in the tourism sector. Elena Martin Cuesta (Ilunion Hotels), Sascha Gill (United Waterways), and Miguel Figueroa (TUI Care Foundation) will share innovative approaches and success stories of integrating the circular economy into tourism practices.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
In addition to environmental sustainability, diversity and inclusion are becoming crucial in the tourism industry. Efforts are being made to enhance the accessibility of destinations and reflect the diversity of global travelers. The industry is also fostering inclusive cultures across its value chain. Magali Bertolucci, Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing at MSC Cruises, will present success stories and best practices for implementing diversity and inclusion programs, creating representative and welcoming work environments.
A World for Travel Forum at TIS 2024
TIS 2024 will once again host the A World for Travel (AWFT) forum, bringing together leading tourism companies to discuss sustainable tourism in both public and private sectors. The 5th edition of AWFT will focus on climate change, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, and sustainable financing. The forum will address how the travel industry is tackling these challenges through energy transitions, financial service engagement, community involvement, and effective communication.
In summary, TIS 2024 is set to be a pivotal event, highlighting the ongoing transformation of the travel industry towards sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.
For more information, visit TIS Global Summit.
