Symposium 2024 in Catalonia: The Balancing Act of Tourism Between Rights, Resources & Responsibilities
The event focused on pressing issues in the tourism sector, including climate change, community relations, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Key Highlights:
– Climate Action: Cristina Bajet Mestre and Verònica Enríquez Morera presented the Climate Action Plan for the Tourism Sector in Catalonia, outlining strategies to mitigate environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
– Best Practices: Eduard Berga Luque from Torres Winery shared inspiring insights on the Torres Wine Experiences, showcasing how to integrate sustainability into tourism.
– Empowering Communities: Paloma Zapata from Sustainable Travel International emphasized the power of tourism as a catalyst for change, aiming to empower local communities and preserve our environment.
– Balancing Growth and Well-Being: An engaging discussion with Professor Antonio Paolo Russo and Professor Anna Torres Delgado addressed the challenge of balancing tourism growth with community well-being, complemented by the social perspectives of Anna Carrasco from AGUICAT and Carla Izcara Conde from Alba Sud.
– Social Responsibility in Tourism: The final session focused on DEI, featuring insights from Edgar Weggelaar and Rika Jean-Francois from Queer Destinations, an initiative transforming destinations into LGBTQI+ friendly spaces. DANIEL SOLANA from Basque Tours shared the example of a certified destination in the Basque Country, while Jordi Castello from Enjoy Travel Group represented a travel operator’s perspective.
The organizers, Roundtable Human Rights in Tourism and Agència Catalana de Turisme / Catalan Tourist Board , hosted a high-quality event where every voice mattered. It was a delight to reconnect with old friends and colleagues from Academia.
Let’s continue the conversation and work together for a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry! 🌍💬