Sustainable tourism in Italy did well in the year 2009 because of pressure and inspiration to preserve the environment. The trend is continuing with Italy’s travel and tourism sector integrating the Eco-friendly practices. However, sustainable tourism in Italy is not made to boost the economy only but they are also aiming at benefiting local communities.
Here are some of the benefits of sustainable tourism in Italy;
1. Employment generation
The rapid growth of Italy’s tourism industry has contributed to generation of job opportunities. Many people have been absorbed in the hotel accommodation industry where they now work. Other job opportunities that have emerged in this sector are taxi jobs, souvenir sales, as well as tenders to supply the tourism businesses with the required goods and services and much more.
2. Preservation of local customs and traditions
The less famous areas in Italy have been promoted through Eco-tourism as the local cultural elements have been protected too. Responsible tourism has also rediscovered the unique characteristics of this nation’s natural regions hence helping in developing its traditions and Italy as a whole. This has been as a result of the provision of inter-regional actions and particular local activities.
Environment is a basic element of the tourism sector assets hence the revenues obtained from tourism are used to develop the local businesses.
3. Contribution to growth of Italy’s economy
Responsible tourism in Italy has contributed to the growth of its economy through generation of income to the government. The fees applied on main entrances of the tourist attraction destinations mainly goes to the government. In addition, the local goods and services that are supplied to the tourists get taxed and all this money goes to the government. Other taxes such as departure taxes have been introduced hence greatly contributing to Italy’s economic growth.
4. Contribution to improved infrastructure
Italy’s infrastructure has improved as a result of sustainable tourism where by better water and sewerage systems have been created, good roads, telephones, public transport networks, electricity and much more which in turn has contributed in improving the peoples living standards.
As the Italians have learned on how to conserve the environment making it clean. Most of the tourism destinations have been renovated, well maintained and old materials recycled, and this has contributed so much in reducing pollution in the state hence reducing the outbreaks of some diseases.
5. Promotion of national security
As government worked towards ensuring safety for the tourists, national security has as well been improved. The local community has really benefited from this. The community also has been educated on how to respond towards natural hazards.
As investors have been assured of safety in Italy they have come to invest in the state. In addition, local investors have been able to market their products to the outside countries. This has helped in linking Italy to other nations, which is good for its economy.
In conclusion, Italy has really achieved quality growth in a manner that none of its natural and built-in surroundings has been wiped out. Its traditions, heritage and history have been well preserved as well, thanks to the sustainable tourism.
Cover image: Sustainable tourism Amalfi Coast, Italy, ph. by Cuba Gallery via flickr