Advancing sustainable blue tourism in the Mediterranean

The Blue Tourism Initiative (BTI) is advancing the transition towards sustainable, nature-positive coastal and marine tourism models that reconcile biodiversity conservation, local livelihoods and cultural heritage.

This event will present the main results and lessons learned from actions implemented in Morocco (Al Hoceima National Park), Tunisia (Djerba Island) and Lebanon (Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, Palm Islands Nature Reserve and Anfeh saltpans). The session will showcase how the initiative has supported improved visitor management in sensitive coastal areas, the creation of local ecotourism governance structures, capacity-building for tourism operators and the integration of biodiversity considerations into hospitality practices. These approaches contribute to enhanced protected area management, reduced environmental pressures and the creation of sustainable economic opportunities for local communities, including youth, women and small-scale operators.

Building on these results, the event will explore the transition from project implementation to long-term impact through the Mediterranean Blue Tourism Flagship Initiative of the 2026-2035 Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development (MSSD) under the Barcelona Convention. This regional framework aims to scale up and replicate successful approaches, strengthen policy coherence and foster cooperation across Mediterranean countries for a more sustainable blue economy.

The event will bring together policymakers, practitioners, researchers and private sector representatives to exchange experiences and discuss pathways for a more resilient and regenerative blue tourism in the Mediterranean.