Eco-tourism Innovations for Rural Development

We are excited to announce significant progress in the international project “Eco-Tourism Innovations for Rural Development,” an Erasmus+ initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices in rural areas across Europe. This project, officially known as Project No: 2023-1-IT01-KA210-VET-000165842, involves partners from Italy, Cyprus, Denmark, and Romania, each contributing their unique expertise to foster eco-friendly tourism and rural development.

Italy: Embracing Sustainability in Conegliano and Valdobbiadene

In the enchanting hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, Synthesis Srl has been at the forefront of integrating traditional wine production with sustainable tourism. Through comprehensive research and interviews with local wineries and guest house administrators, Synthesis Srl contributed to the creation of a detailed handbook on green practices. In April 2024, two pilot training sessions were conducted, engaging 15 local stakeholders. These sessions empowered participants to incorporate eco-friendly strategies into their operations, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural landscapes and preventing overtourism. The initiative has not only enhanced local operators’ knowledge but also fostered a community dedicated to sustainable tourism.

Cyprus: Cultivating Eco-Friendly Tourism in Rural Larnaca

C.F. Elite Tutors Ltd led the efforts in Rural Larnaca, engaging local businesses, producers, and administration representatives to develop and implement sustainable tourism practices. After conducting extensive field research and interviews, the team helped create training materials tailored to local needs. The pilot training sessions held in May 2024 saw participation from 15 local entrepreneurs and stakeholders, who learned to balance tourism growth with environmental conservation. By highlighting local traditions, such as Cyprus coffee and honey production, the project demonstrated how cultural heritage can be integrated into a sustainable tourism model.

Denmark: Green Tourism Practices in Køge

The Common Ones spearheaded the initiative in Køge, Denmark, focusing on educating rural tourism operators about practical sustainability measures. The pilot training sessions, which included interactive workshops and hands-on activities, provided actionable strategies for implementing green practices. A total of 15 participants took part, creating a network of rural tourism providers committed to continuous learning and sustainability. The feedback collected during these sessions was instrumental in refining the handbook, ensuring it met the specific needs of the Danish rural tourism sector.

Romania: Sustainable Tourism in Bucovina de Munte

In Bucovina de Munte, the Institut National de Cercetare Dezvoltare in Turism (INCDT) worked on integrating sustainable practices into local tourism businesses. Through detailed research of the area’s natural and cultural resources and numerous interviews, they contributed to the handbook’s development. The pilot training sessions held in April 2024 engaged 15 local guest house administrators, producers, and cultural associations, equipping them with tools to enhance their sustainability efforts. The project also emphasized the role of the “Local Action Group Bucovina de Munte” in promoting cohesive and sustainable rural development.

Impact and Future Directions

The “Eco-Tourism Innovations for Rural Development” project has significantly advanced the understanding and implementation of sustainable tourism practices in rural areas. The pilot training sessions have provided practical skills and fostered a sense of community among all participants.

Participants across all regions reported significant improvements in their ability to implement sustainable practices, with many already integrating these strategies into their operations. The positive feedback and successful implementation underscore the project’s effectiveness in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Looking ahead, the consortium will continue to refine the handbook and training materials based on participant feedback. Additional activities are planned to ensure ongoing support and enhancement of sustainable tourism practices in the target regions.

More information by e-mail progettazione@synthesis-srl.com or please contact us at 049 8078751 (contact persons: Silvia/Eva)

The project Eco-tourism Innovations for Rural Development (Project No: 2023-1-IT01-KA210-VET-000165842) is funded with the support of the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union. This communication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. [Project Number: 2023-1-IT01-KA210-VET 000165842]