New strategy to boost EU maritime tourism

This new framework follows on from the Blue Growth Communication of 2012 and comes at a time when tourism is on the rise.

As part of the new framework, the Commission will promote ecotourism using the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme and EU Ecolabel indicators, promote implementation of the protocol to the Barcelona Convention on integrated coastal management and promote maritime spatial planning and green infrastructure.

In addition, it will promote strategies on waste prevention, management and marine litter to support sustainable coastal and maritime tourism.

In order to do this, the Commission is inviting Member States, regions, industry and other stakeholders to develop guidelines on minimising impacts on biodiversity and enhancing benefits of recreation and tourism in protected areas, develop climate change adaption in coastal areas, improve resource efficiency, promote the use of shore-side electricity and provision of port facilities, and promote ecotourism and other sustainable tourism products.