In the last 20 years we have witnessed the rise of unanticipated technological changes and the emergence of knowledge tools in the information society that enable us to conceive the future of smart tourism and light the way for new intelligence capabilities applied to sustainable tourism.

Tourism is currently in the midst of a digital revolution. New information and communication technologies systematically increase tourists’ ability to be much better informed about tourism products and to appreciate local resources and heritage through direct communication. ICT provides prediction systems, collaborative networks, decision support systems, monitoring tools and the chance to build experiences to be shared. In short, ICT can become an important ally for promoting the transition to sustainable tourism, not only in developed and developing countries, but also in emerging areas.

In the society of knowledge, new means and technology tools can offer possibilities for diversification of tourism products, enabling alternative ways to strengthen sociocultural and natural heritage of each destination.

In this context, smart tourism destinations have emerged as the spearhead of the sustainable tourism of the future. We are witnessing the rise of this new concept of innovative tourism destinations built on advanced technological and eco-efficient infrastructure ensuring sustainable development of the tourist area, accessible to all, that facilitates integration of visitors with their surroundings and enhances the quality of their experience.

Technological innovation and the development of sustainable management systems have become key elements of tourism competitiveness. Today we can say there are no technological or knowledge barriers preventing a true green revolution in conceptualising tourism infrastructure and managing basic resources. We are facing a real blossoming of innovation in more sustainable technologies that ensure eco-efficiency in areas such as building, integrated water cycle management, and waste management and minimisation.

All these advances and trends have a decisive role in making sustainability a smart tourist attraction, creating new business spaces in the context of green economies.

Main Topics

CONNECTING SMART AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

FOSTERING THE GREEN INNOVATION CULTURE IN TOURISM

MOVING TOWARDS WASTE FREE TOURISM

TOURISM AND WATER