Sustainable tourism

Cultural Heritage is an expression of the ways of living developed by a community and passed on from generation to generation, including customs, practices, places, objects, artistic expressions and values (ICOMOS, 2002). Cultural identity can be tangible such as the built environment, natural environment and artefacts or intangible such as habits, traditions, oral history, etc.

Natural capital embraces natural resources, land and ecosystems and is also essential for delivering ecosystem services that underpin our economy. EU-wide Natura 2000 network of protected territories offers plenty of opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor recreational activities.

Sustainable tourism can be defined as "tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities" (UNWTO, 2005). Additionally, World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) emphasizes that ‘sustainable tourism provides more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues’.