Topic : Green transition of tourism companies and SMEs
Driving Green Transition in Greek Tourism
The green transition for tourism companies and SMEs involves adopting practices that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability and can take the form of specific solutions for reduced CO2 emissions or improved resource management. A notable example is the initiative by INSETE, which has developed a toolkit to support sustainable tourism development, including resources such as studies, manuals, videos, and articles that guide businesses in aligning their operations with EU sustainability targets. Moreover, the initiative emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, encouraging businesses to stay updated with the latest sustainability practices and regulations. Another significant aspect is the focus on renewable energy and resource efficiency, where businesses are encouraged to invest in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices. For instance, the green transition of Astypalea as a destination, supported by the Volkswagen Group and centrally by the Greek State government, showcases the integration of renewable energy sources and electric transportation to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainability.
The majority of Greek tourism SMEs have not implemented significant green transition projects, indicating a gap in the adoption of sustainable practices. The need for sustainability certification, self-assessment, and access to funding opportunities were identified as challenges. The lessons learnt emphasize the importance of providing resources and support for SMEs to undertake green transitions.
Among significant initiatives for green transition of tourism SMEs is the “Accessible Nature and Culture-Sustainable Tourism” project (see Annex), submitted by the Municipality of Rethymno and the National Confederation of Persons with Disabilities on behalf of Greece, and the Municipality of Ayia Napa and the Municipality of Sotiras on behalf of Cyprus. The project focuses on improving accessibility to natural and cultural spaces in the two municipalities, promoting these spaces, and developing common strategies and tools aimed at tourism for all. The project includes interventions to improve the accessibility to selected natural and cultural sites of the three municipalities, the creation of accessible models and maps, actions to promote accessible tourist destinations through publicity material and an accessible website, and information workshops. It also includes a joint strategic plan for the development of accessible tourism, a guide to the emblematic accessible points of the natural and cultural heritage of the two islands, proposals for packages of accessible tourist routes, and a common system for assessing accessibility and placing a certification mark on “accessible to all-natural and/or cultural heritage sites”.
Lessons Learned:
- Exchange of Good Practices: Exchanging good practices is important, particularly in terms of improving the green impact of tourist infrastructure.
- Attracting New Visitors: The research has highlighted that combining green transition and social considerations is important to attract new visitors, including individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility. This can help improve the quality of the tourist product, extend the tourist season, and expand the tourist market share.
- Capitalization Activities: Capitalisation through replication of activities in further territories, serving to mainstream results in regional, national, and European policies, can help establish a critical mass for sustainable and circular growth in the Mediterranean region.
Smart Astypalea – Vehicles update & RES
“SmartAstypalea” offers a pathway to the gradual replacement of the public and private vehicle fleet on the island with electric vehicles. Concurrently, an innovative transportation system is introduced while RES infrastructure is built to shift the island’s energy mix away from fossil fuels, and eventually to reduced GHG emissions.
These are achieved by the implementation of a financing program for new electric vehicles, the installation of an EV charging network, the introduction of on-demand and micro-mobility transport services, and a commitment to future accommodations for autonomous driving.
Construction work for the upgrading of Astypalea island energy network started in January 2021.
Planning of new RES infrastructure, charging points placement selection and the identification of the legislative framework for the “on-demand shuttle service” followed, along with the installation of the first 12 publicly available charging points, the launch of the “e-astypalea” platform and the delivery of the first EVs to local authorities (police force, coast guard, civil aviation, municipality).
The implementation expanded to private fleets and the public infrastructure for the shuttle service, resulting to over eighteen thousand trips until August 2022.
The capacity of the island’s electrical grid was one of the technical challenges, eventually tackled with upgrading works. Getting local citizens onboard and informed about the project was done during a town hall meeting, where the project was presented to them. The interfuncitonality and combination of all distinct services that comprise the smart mobility system of the island were connected at the user level through the “e-astypalea” platform. A challenge to older citizens of the island, not having smartphones is the use of the “Astybus” service, relying on their younger relatives to order shuttles for them.
The all-inclusive approach to transitioning to a smart multimodal mobility ecosystem can be replicated to other small localities with well-defined resource flows. A model of triple-helix cooperation adopted during this project is well-tested and applied in many different conditions. The concrete governance design, research approach, action plans, and implementation have general features that allow them to be adopted when transferred. As there is a significant number of remote places in Greece that can benefit from a twin transition of their local mobility, the domestic transfer of this practice is highly probable.
Green transition of tourism companies and SMEs in France
The needs analysis conducted with the French tourism SMEs revealed several common obstacles and challenges related to the green transition of tourism services. One prevalent challenge was the limited adoption of locally sourced, environmentally friendly ingredients in food services, which could reduce the sector’s environmental footprint. Many SMEs faced difficulties in sourcing and integrating these ingredients due to supply chain constraints and cost considerations, highlighting the need for innovative solutions and partnerships with local producers. Additionally, reducing food waste emerged as a significant challenge within the hospitality industry, requiring improved inventory management, portion control, and customer education.
A good example of how to address these challenges is the SusTour project, funded by the European COSME programme, aimed at enhancing the capacities and skills of tour operators and travel agents (SMEs) towards sustainable tourism practices. This project, spanning several European countries, focused on implementing comprehensive training, management systems, standards, and solutions to improve sustainable management and performance among participating companies. The core objectives of SusTour were multifaceted, including updating existing standards, training modules, and tools to effectively integrate sustainability within tour operators and their supply chain. Notably, the project engaged a substantial group of advisors and auditors from 12 different countries, certifying them to support SMEs in their sustainability journeys. Through a blended training approach involving classroom sessions, online modules, webinars, and coaching, SusTour aimed to build the capacities of over 175 SMEs in sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, the project facilitated the development of sustainability standards and tools to reduce carbon and plastic impacts within the travel sector, targeting the management of excursions and engagement with excursion suppliers to implement sustainable practices. The culmination of these efforts resulted in over 120 tour operators achieving the Travelife Partner award and 60 tour operators receiving the Travelife Certified award, reflecting their commitment and excellence in sustainability.
The “Sustainability Codes of Good Practice for excursion providers” offer valuable insights and lessons relevant to the twin transition, particularly focusing on sustainable tourism practices. These codes aim to guide tourism companies in planning and executing activities while minimizing negative impacts and maximizing benefits for destinations and participants. Emphasizing responsible management of external environmental, socio-cultural, and economic impacts, the codes align with industry criteria set by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) reference document. The consultative process involved in developing these codes ensured global relevance, gathering input from stakeholders across continents. The customization feature allows Travelife members to adapt these codes with their logo, facilitating widespread adoption and implementation of sustainable practices among excursion providers. Overall, the Sustainability Codes of Good Practice serve as a practical tool for fostering sustainable tourism and offer valuable lessons for promoting the twin transition towards green practices within the tourism industry.
Domaine Du Val De Roland
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Domaine Du Val De Roland launched a transformative sustainability project, achieving the “Green Key” label. The residence implemented eco-friendly practices, such as conserving water and electricity, minimizing waste, and offering organic breakfast options. Communication efforts are prioritized to engage both guests and employees in sustainability initiatives. Partnerships with local producers and suppliers reinforce a commitment to sustainable sourcing. The residence promotes slow tourism by providing activities that encourage deep immersion in local culture and environment. Collaboration with three organizations focused on slow tourism enhances connections with nature and local communities, with seasonal activities like guided nature walks, cultural festivals, and culinary experiences allowing visitors to explore the region at a leisurely pace.
Revlys
Revlys focuses on offering events exclusively in France, highlighting the country’s diverse and beautiful regions. Their activities aim to raise awareness about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), promoting sustainable practices among clients. Prioritizing train travel reduces carbon footprints and supports eco-friendly transportation. The company emphasizes responsible food choices by sourcing organic and locally produced ingredients tailored to each region. Seminar locations are selected based on recognized sustainability certifications, such as eco-hotels and eco-complexes, ensuring alignment with their values. To further mitigate environmental impact, all CO2 emissions from events are offset through the Label Bas-Carbone. Revlys also collaborates with local businesses for souvenirs, food, tours, and activities, which supports regional products, minimizes transportation distances, and showcases the cultural richness of each French region.
ODYSWAY
During the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, ODYSWAY swiftly adapted its strategy to cater to the evolving needs of travelers, while also embracing sustainability as a core principle. With a strategic shift towards local tourism, particularly in France and across Europe, ODYSWAY capitalized on accessible transportation via train routes to facilitate travel during a time of closed borders and restricted mobility. Throughout the period from March to June 2020, ODYSWAY proactively crafted 15 immersive tours within National Parks and Natural Reserves (PN and PNR), focusing on local exploration and supporting regional economies. These new experiences not only showcased the breathtaking beauty of these natural landscapes but also fostered meaningful connections between travelers and the passionate locals residing within them. This shift led to an exclusive partnership with the federation of French natural parks (PNR).
Camping Santa Lucia
After COVID-19, Camping Santa Lucia in Corsica intensified its focus on sustainable tourism. They earned the European Eco label through efforts like conserving water, promoting biodiversity, and sourcing locally for their restaurant. Their vision extends to creating a completely green campsite. While not fully experiential yet, they aim to engage guests in nature and culture activities. Facing post-pandemic challenges, they prioritized guest safety and flexibility. Moving forward, they seek support for skills, funding, and partnerships to advance their green transition and promote sustainable tourism in Corsica.
France by Locals
In response to COVID-19, France by Locals adopted a sustainable tourism approach, offering unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that highlight interactions between travelers and locals. The company promotes eco-friendly practices by recommending labeled accommodations, restaurants, and using transportation methods such as e-bikes and trains. Catering to international, French, and local tourists, the company now targets European markets accessible by train rather than planes. By diversifying tourism away from crowded hotspots and supporting local businesses, it aims to boost local development and minimize environmental impact, thereby contributing to the tourism industry’s sustainability and providing authentic, memorable experiences for travelers.
GEOfood
It is critical to provide SMEs in the tourism sector with capacity building programs, technical and financial assistance to encourage them to engage in eco-friendly practices and schemes. These programs can include training on environmental best practices, technical advice on implementing sustainable solutions, and access to subsidized financing for investments in eco-innovative technologies. Lessons learned show that direct support to SMEs can foster the adoption of sustainable practices by overcoming financial and technological barriers that might otherwise limit their environmental engagement.
GEOfood is an international initiative run by UNESCO Global Geoparks which engages local communities to build up local narratives focused on the connection between geology and food.
GEOfood brand defines the “quality” based on local traditions and ancient knowledge, connected with geological heritage which is characterizing each territory.
The five main objectives are:
- Improving efficiency in the use of resources.
- Direct action to ensure, protect natural resources.
- Agriculture must improve rural livelihood, equity and social well-being
- Enhance resilience of people, community and ecosystem.
- Responsible and effective governance mechanisms are required.
All the Global Geoparks taking part in the project establish agreements with local food producers and restaurants enterprises in the frame of GEOfood criteria, giving them the opportunity to use the brand within their business.
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