The event centers on advancing climate action in tourism, with regeneration as a guiding principle. It highlights how regenerative tourism models can actively restore local biodiversity and safeguard cultural heritage, ensuring that tourism not only minimizes harm but also creates positive impacts.
As an example the case of Life eCOadapt50 will be presented which focuses on adapting to climate change in the agricultural, forestry, fishing, and tourism sectors in Cataluña, Spain. The project aims to reduce vulnerabilities in tourism, such as loss of climate comfort and water scarcity, by promoting sustainability and diversification. For example, it conducts diagnostics of tourism agents in Camp de Tarragona to identify improvement opportunities and implements adaptation measures aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The approach includes surveys, action plans, and evaluations to foster a more sustainable tourism model in the region. Ultimately, the event calls for collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities to build a tourism sector that regenerates environments and societies for the future.
This event is an opportunity to hear about the latest research and practice from research and private sector leaders, with the participation of UN Tourism to present their work on regenerative tourism. The event will allow sharing of best practices and innovative solutions, fostering a culture of learning and improvement. Ultimately, the event calls for collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities to build a tourism sector that regenerates environments and societies for the future.
Objectives
This event will highlight the initiative led by UN Tourism on “Tourism Regeneration” and provide guidance and discussion on climate adaptation for the tourism sector. It will also be an opportunity for lessons learned and case studies to be shared from Spain, with participation of industry leaders, and public bodies. Specifically, we will see discussion and cross-sectoral collaboration to:
- Identify and promote tangible low-carbon strategies and circular economy principles within tourism operations, aiming for a measurable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the sector.
- Mobilise increased public and private finance and investment towards climate adaptation and mitigation programmes.
- Champion regenerative tourism models that actively enhance local biodiversity, protect cultural heritage, and build sustainable, climate-resilient livelihoods for host communities.
- Share best practice and innovative technological solutions in climate risk management and sustainable tourism, facilitating effective knowledge transfer among international delegates and policymakers.
- Foster multi-stakeholder collaboration across government bodies, the private sector, and local communities, ensuring a coordinated, national programme for enhancing climate resilience within the tourism value chain.
Moderator
Andrés Pereda, Director of Corporate Development / Spain Chamber of Commerce / Spain
Speakers
- Virginia Fernández-Trapa. Programme Coordinator / Sustainable Tourism and Resilience at World Tourism Organization / UN Tourism.
- Luis Cabrera. President of ANESE (Asociación Nacional de Empresas de Servicios Energéticos), National Association of Energy Sector Businesses / Spain.
- Albert Vendrell Roca. Head of the Local Energy Management Support Section / Regional Provincial Government of Barcelona / Spain.
- Paloma Zapata. CEO / Sustainable Travel International.
- Adam Terando. Ph.D. Director of Climate Action / Iberostar.