From April 8 to 10, 2025, the final meeting of the European ECOTOURS project – “Empowering local communities turning them into laboratories for co-development of circular and sustainable tourism ecosystems” – took place in Kozani, Greece. Hosted by ANKO Western Macedonia S.A. and coordinated by PRISM, the event was a key moment to reflect on the results achieved by the international partnership and the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) involved.
A strong partnership
The project partners – PRISM (IT), UVigo (ES), Enoros (CY), CSKIK (HU), FCAT (IT), and ANKO (GR) – worked together successfully to promote a more sustainable and community-based tourism model. One of the most important outcomes highlighted during the meeting was the launch of an innovative digital platform, available online vert soon. This platform will help visitors discover personalised itineraries, give feedback, and earn badges and discounts based on their experiences.
Benefits for tourism MSMEs
The project had a direct and positive impact on the MSMEs, who were able to:
- Complete 80 hours of coaching focused on circular practices and how to get environmental certifications such as. Ecolabel, Biosphere etc.;
- Take part in protocols and business agreements to strengthen cooperation in sustainable tourism;
- Gain international visibility through local and European events and communication activities.
A practical handbook on circular tourism will soon be available online here: https://ecotours-project.eu/ in all partner languages.
Final step: The conference in Brussels
During the meeting, the team also finalised plans for the final conference in Brussels, on May 28, which will gather project representatives and selected MSMEs. The event will be a great opportunity to share results and promote future collaborations. Do you want to join us? Check here: https://ecotours-project.eu/towards-a-community-based-and-circular-european-tourism-ecosystem/
ECOTOURS proved that, with the right support, MSMEs can play a key role in building a more responsible, innovative, and community-centred tourism models.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. The European Union cannot be held responsible for them.