If not now... when?

Italy as a pillar for the safeguard of sustainable tourism and innovation: let's start again from here

Already included in the SDGs, the sustainable development goals, or rather the objectives of the Universal Agenda 2030; the concepts of innovation and tourism are certainly two mega-trends that will be able to help give a hand to the rebirth of the economy at such a difficult time in which the domestic world finds itself having to deal also, and necessarily, with the defense of the planet.
Certainly, experts say, managing the reception of tourists by fostering better use of territories will promote a more balanced sharing of wealth and an overall increase in profitability.
Invitalia has recently awarded 10 start-ups that have launched projects able to offer solutions that revolve around the so-called "green" tourism, but that also look beyond, addressing not only hospitality operators but also tourists and vacationers who pay attention to the environmental impact when they travel.
Title, at random, of the contest was, "Change!" Change is possible, of course. And if not now, given what's happening with the Covid19 pandemic, which will force us all to pick ourselves up sooner or later, one wonders... when?
Tourism is one of the most important sectors for the global economy, contributing 5% of the world's GDP and creating 235 million jobs (1 in 12). It is estimated that the number of tourists will reach 1.8 billion by 2030. The scope of the sector will inevitably generate effects not only at an economic level, but also environmental and social going to settle in many aspects of life of our local communities.
In this framework, and especially after the changes that will come because of the crisis we are experiencing, sustainable tourism will become increasingly central, which, according to the World Tourism Organization, can be defined as the kind of tourism "that takes full account of current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, responding to the needs of visitors, industry, the environment, and host communities."
Whether you prefer to call it conscious tourism or responsible tourism, it will still be a tourism that will have to help the territories in achieving the sustainability goals defined in the 2030 Agenda. And in this context, Italy will certainly not be able to call itself out!
How to become "sustainable tourists"? It's really simple: choosing local cuisine rather than fast food, making a good waste separation, buying in artisan stores. Ready for this new adventure? If not now... when?