Tourism is at a crossroads. How will European destinations manage growth while reducing environmental and social impact?
The European Commission’s Sustainable EU Tourism – Shaping the Tourism of Tomorrow programme (2023–2025) is supporting this transition by helping destinations across Europe address key challenges such as climate change, overtourism, seasonality, and social inclusion.
Recent progress includes:
- Identification of 31 common challenges faced by destinations, from water scarcity to digitalisation.
- Collection of 50 case studies showcasing effective responses, including energy-efficient infrastructure, visitor flow management, and community engagement.
- Establishment of peer-to-peer “twinning” partnerships between destinations to share knowledge and best practices.
- Development of communication toolkits to help tourism stakeholders promote sustainable practices effectively.
Why should hospitality professionals pay attention?
Tourism is a major economic driver, but growing pressures require a shift in how destinations and the businesses within them operate. Increasingly, regulations, local policies, and traveller expectations demand sustainable approaches. Hotels and other accommodations that align with these trends can better anticipate changes, reduce operational risks, and contribute positively to their communities.
By understanding the programme and the broader context, hospitality providers can position themselves strategically for a future where sustainability is not optional, but fundamental.
ABOUT GCSTIMES
Since 2011, GCSTlMES has pioneered sustainable development, evolving from smart card R&D to sustainable material innovation. Today, we stand as a global platform for sustainable solutions.
Sustainability is our foundation. Through technological innovation and creative solutions, GCSTlMES delivers diverse services and tangible products, positioning ourselves as both manufacturers and innovators.
GCSTlMES believes technology should empower human progress and cultural preservation. By integrating sustainability into technology, we aim to make it “warm” and purposeful. Our products serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting local heritage worldwide.
Brand Portfolio: GCS, AUROkeys, Xenyra, and Glint Spot, offering sustainable smart cards, creative (custom-shaped) key cards sustainable supplies, cultural gifts, and bespoke design and related services.
Currently, GCSTlMES has five operational centers in China, US, UAE, France, and Australia, along with 20 subsidiaries and offices worldwide. Its services extend to over 140 countries and regions supporting more than 100,000 international hospitality group in achieving low-carbon and sustainable development goals.
GCS Times
MKT Team
