European Commission Seeks Input on Upcoming EU Sustainable Tourism Strategy

Strategic Insights -

The European Commission is launching a public consultation to gather citizens', travellers', and tourism operators' views on its upcoming EU sustainable tourism strategy. The strategy aims to make tourism more sustainable, competitive, and innovative, while enhancing the travel experience and supporting the sector's resilience. The new strategy will focus on creating a more sustainable tourism experience in Europe, with initiatives such as reducing overcrowding, promoting eco-friendly options, improving digital services, and streamlining cross-border trips. The strategy will also support Member States in improving coordination, access to support measures, and strengthening the sector's resilience in the face of emerging challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • The European Commission is launching a public consultation to gather input on its upcoming EU sustainable tourism strategy until 12 September 2025.
  • The strategy aims to make tourism more sustainable, competitive, and innovative, while enhancing the travel experience and supporting the sector's resilience.
  • The new strategy will focus on creating a more sustainable tourism experience in Europe, including reducing overcrowding, promoting eco-friendly options, and improving digital services.
  • The strategy will build on ongoing EU efforts, such as the 2022 Transition Pathway for Tourism, which identifies 27 key areas for green and digital transition.
  • Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas invites stakeholders to contribute their insights to help build a resilient, sustainable, and thriving future for European tourism.
  • The Commission's public consultation is part of its efforts to support Member States in improving coordination, access to support measures, and strengthening the sector's resilience in the face of emerging challenges.
  • The informal Council meeting of tourism ministers in Warsaw, organised by the Polish Presidency of the Council, is a key step in the preparation of the strategy.

Statistics:

  • The public consultation on the EU sustainable tourism strategy will run until 12 September 2025.
  • The strategy aims to reduce tourist overcrowding in Europe's popular destinations.
  • There are 27 key areas for green and digital transition identified in the 2022 Transition Pathway for Tourism.
  • The Commission's public consultation is seeking input from citizens, travellers, and tourism operators.

Sources:

  • European Commission, DG-COMP news release
  • Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas statement