{"id":14179,"date":"2017-12-02T09:19:57","date_gmt":"2017-12-02T08:19:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/?p=14179"},"modified":"2026-03-31T14:11:45","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T12:11:45","slug":"sustainable-tourism-what-is","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/","title":{"rendered":"Sustainable Tourism Explained: A Complete Guide to Traveling Responsibly"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>You hear about it more and more often, <strong>sustainable tourism<\/strong> is a way of traveling that respects the environment, local communities, and the economies of the regions.<\/p>\n<p>It doesn\u2019t mean giving up the pleasure of traveling, but choosing <strong>more conscious experiences<\/strong> that can generate lasting benefits for the places we visit.<\/p>\n<p>In this <strong>complete guide<\/strong>, you will discover what <strong>sustainable tourism is<\/strong>, its objectives, advantages, main forms, and how to practice it concretely, including by choosing <strong>truly eco-friendly accommodations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"indice\">Index<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#cos-e\">What is sustainable tourism<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#principi\">Principles of sustainable tourism<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#importanza\">Why is it important today<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#obiettivi\">Objectives of sustainable travel<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#forme\">Main forms of green tourism<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#vantaggi\">Benefits of sustainable tourism<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#come-praticarlo\">How to practice it<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#consigli\">10 tips for sustainable travel<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#alloggi\">How to choose a sustainable accommodation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#rigenerativo\">What is regenerative tourism?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#italia\">Ecotourism\u00a0in Italy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ on Sustainable Tourism<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"cos-e\">What is sustainable tourism<\/h2>\n<p><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-64878 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir.jpg\" alt=\"girl cycling in nature with sea view, example of sustainable tourism\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir.jpg 870w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir-536x302.jpg 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir-570x320.jpg 570w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/touir-344x194.jpg 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>According to the World Tourism Organization (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.untourism.int\/sustainable-development\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UNWTO<\/a>), sustainable tourism is:<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Tourism that meets the needs of present tourists and host regions,<br \/>\nprotecting and enhancing opportunities for the future, managing all resources in a way<br \/>\nthat meets economic, social, and aesthetic needs while maintaining cultural integrity,<br \/>\nessential ecological processes, and biodiversity.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>In other words, sustainable tourism aims to <strong>reduce the negative impacts of tourism<\/strong><br \/>\nand <strong>maximize the positive ones<\/strong>, creating value for the environment, people, and local economies.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"principi\">Principles of sustainable tourism<\/h2>\n<p><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-64881\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism.png\" alt=\"3 pillars of sustainable tourism\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism.png 870w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism-536x302.png 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism-768x433.png 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism-570x320.png 570w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/3-pillars-of-sustainable-tourism-344x194.png 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Eco-sustainable tourism is based on three fundamental pillars:<\/p>\n<h3>Environmental sustainability<\/h3>\n<p>Protect ecosystems, reduce pollution, limit natural resource consumption,<br \/>\nand preserve biodiversity.<\/p>\n<h3>Social and cultural sustainability<\/h3>\n<p>Respect local communities, traditions, and cultural heritage, avoiding exploitation,<br \/>\nstandardization, and loss of identity.<\/p>\n<h3>Economic sustainability<\/h3>\n<p>Generate economic benefits fairly distributed, supporting local employment and long-term<br \/>\ndevelopment of destinations.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"importanza\">Why sustainable tourism is important today<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_64882\" class=\"thumbnail alignnone\"><img class=\"wp-image-64882 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1.png\" alt=\"infographic on sustainable tourism: importance, necessary change, and practical tips for responsible travel\" width=\"6250\" height=\"8333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1.png 6250w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1-536x715.png 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1-768x1024.png 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1-1152x1536.png 1152w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1-1536x2048.png 1536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/turismo-sostenibile-01-1-344x459.png 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 6250px) 100vw, 6250px\" \/><div class=\"caption\">Infographic: Why Conscious Tourism Matters and How to Practice It Every Day<\/div><\/div>\n<p>Tourism is one of the largest global industries but also one of the most impactful.<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2020\/02\/overtourism-causes-consequences-solutions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mass tourism<\/a> can cause environmental degradation, overcrowding, excessive resource consumption,<br \/>\nand loss of cultural identity.<\/p>\n<p>In many cases, tourists end up <strong>destroying what they came to see<\/strong>.<br \/>\nResponsible tourism is therefore the only way to continue traveling without compromising the future of the planet and local communities.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"obiettivi\">Objectives of sustainable travel<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2018\/12\/green-hotel-actions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reduce the environmental impact<\/a> of tourism activities<\/li>\n<li>Protect natural, cultural, and social heritage<\/li>\n<li>Support local economic development<\/li>\n<li>Ensure lasting benefits for future generations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"forme\">Main forms of sustainable tourism<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_64883\" class=\"thumbnail alignnone\"><img class=\"wp-image-64883 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"two women in traditional clothing in a historic alley in Asia, example of sustainable cultural tourism\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-536x370.jpg 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-768x529.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-1536x1059.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-2048x1412.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/andre-benz-250740-2-344x237.jpg 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><div class=\"caption\">Sustainable Cultural Tourism: Discover Local Traditions. Photo by Andre Benz<\/div><\/div>\n<h3>Nature tourism<\/h3>\n<p>Trips immersed in nature, natural parks, reserves, and protected areas.<\/p>\n<h3>Slow tourism<\/h3>\n<p>A more conscious way of traveling, at <a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2025\/06\/slow-travel-sustainable-itineraries\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">slow pace<\/a>, prioritizing quality experiences.<\/p>\n<h3>Food and wine tourism<\/h3>\n<p>Discover local products, culinary traditions, and sustainable supply chains.<\/p>\n<h3>Experiential tourism<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2024\/08\/nature-experiences-gift\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Authentic experiences<\/a> that directly involve local communities.<\/p>\n<h3>Proximity tourism<\/h3>\n<p>Travel near home, exploring lesser-known areas.<\/p>\n<h3>Community tourism<\/h3>\n<p>Local communities take an active role in hospitality and tourism development.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"vantaggi\">Benefits of sustainable tourism<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_64884\" class=\"thumbnail alignnone\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-64884\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2.jpg\" alt=\"woman and child preparing local food in Asia, example of sustainable tourism supporting local traditions and communities\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2.jpg 870w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2-536x302.jpg 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2-570x320.jpg 570w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sostenere-le-economie-locali-2-344x194.jpg 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><div class=\"caption\">Sustainable tourism supports local communities, photo by Fabio Rizzo<\/div><\/div>\n<h3>For the environment<\/h3>\n<p>Reduces pollution and helps conserve ecosystems.<\/p>\n<h3>For local communities<\/h3>\n<p>Enhances traditions, culture, and creates economic opportunities.<\/p>\n<h3>For travelers<\/h3>\n<p>Offers more authentic, deep, and meaningful experiences.<\/p>\n<h3>For the local economy<\/h3>\n<p>Promotes fairer and more sustainable economic development.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"come-praticarlo\">How to practice sustainable tourism<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_64885\" class=\"thumbnail alignnone\"><img class=\"wp-image-64885 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4.jpg\" alt=\"person on a bicycle with a backpack, example of sustainable mobility in responsible tourism\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4.jpg 870w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4-536x302.jpg 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4-570x320.jpg 570w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Alfano-Massimo-Turismo-in-bicicletta-MASSIMO-ALFANO-870x490-4-344x194.jpg 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><div class=\"caption\">Traveling by bike is a practical and sustainable way to explore areas. Photo by Alfano Massimo<\/div><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Prefer low-impact means of transport<\/li>\n<li>Reduce waste and single-use plastic<\/li>\n<li>Respect the environment and local traditions<\/li>\n<li>Choose responsible activities and services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Learn more:<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/eco-friendly-travel-minimize-carbon-footprint\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sustainable travel: best practices<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"consigli\">10 tips for sustainable travel<\/h2>\n<p><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-85247 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.it\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/05\/Turismo-Green-La-Rivoluzione-Sostenibile-Che-Cambia-il-Modo-di-Viaggiare-870x490.png\" alt=\"Green Tourism: The Sustainable Revolution Changing the Way We Travel\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" \/><\/p>\n<p>There is no one-size-fits-all formula, but here are some practical choices to become a responsible traveler:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Whenever possible, <a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2019\/10\/traveling-by-plane-is-not-sustainable\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">avoid flying<\/a> and prefer trains, electric cars, and carpooling<\/li>\n<li>Choose eco-friendly accommodations using renewable energy and saving water<\/li>\n<li>Remember that natural resources like water and energy are limited<\/li>\n<li>Respect the surrounding environment: follow trails, don\u2019t leave waste, don\u2019t take natural souvenirs<\/li>\n<li>Bring reusable bottles and containers, avoiding single-use plastic<\/li>\n<li>Choose restaurants and services run by locals<\/li>\n<li>Buy organic and local products<\/li>\n<li>Respect local customs; every country is designed for its inhabitants<\/li>\n<li>Slow down, explore on foot or by bike whenever possible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Also explore:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2019\/11\/carbon-footprint-vacation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">40 practical tips for green travel<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2022\/10\/improve-health-happiness-travelling-sustainably\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to travel sustainably<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"alloggi\">How to choose a sustainable accommodation<\/h2>\n<div class=\"embed-container\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Ecobnb - find your Sustainable accommodation\" width=\"1170\" height=\"658\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Vy2TwQw2fCo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<p><strong>A truly sustainable accommodation<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>uses renewable energy<\/li>\n<li>reduces water and energy waste<\/li>\n<li>supports the local economy<\/li>\n<li>communicates its practices transparently<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It\u2019s important to watch out for <strong>greenwashing<\/strong> and rely on platforms that select<br \/>\ntruly sustainable accommodations, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Ecobnb<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Also explore:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2023\/05\/eco-friendly-accommodations-sustainable-green-places-stay\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sustainable accommodations: how to find green places for your eco-friendly vacation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2025\/05\/sustainable-hotels-traveling-while-respecting-planet-possible\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sustainable hotels: another way of traveling is possible<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/benefits-sleeping-eco-friendly-accommodation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Benefits of staying in a sustainable hotel<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"rigenerativo\">Regenerative tourism: going beyond sustainability<\/h2>\n<p><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-88171 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.it\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/Understanding-Regenerative-Tourism-in-Australia-1170x490-1-870x490.jpg\" alt=\"Hand and Vine\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.it\/blog\/2026\/01\/turismo-rigenerativo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Regenerative tourism<\/a><\/strong> represents the natural evolution of sustainable tourism. While sustainable tourism aims to reduce the negative impact on destinations, regenerative tourism focuses on generating a <strong>tangible positive impact<\/strong> on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.<\/p>\n<p>It is important not to confuse it with wellness tourism: the focus of regenerative tourism is not the traveler\u2019s personal well-being, but the <strong>real and measurable improvement of destinations<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>However, those who participate in these experiences often leave feeling renewed and enriched.<\/p>\n<h3>Main characteristics of regenerative tourism<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Regeneration of natural resources:<\/strong> reforestation, beach clean-ups, sustainable water management, and habitat protection<\/li>\n<li><strong>Benefits for local communities:<\/strong> local employment, training, and sustainable economic development<\/li>\n<li><strong>Enhancement of culture and heritage:<\/strong> respect and promotion of local traditions<\/li>\n<li><strong>Traveler education:<\/strong> informative guidance to raise environmental and cultural awareness<\/li>\n<li><strong>Benefits for travelers:<\/strong> meaningful and enriching experiences<\/li>\n<li><strong>Impact measurement:<\/strong> monitoring environmental, social, and economic results<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Regenerative tourism creates a <strong>virtuous cycle<\/strong>: resources are restored, communities thrive, and travelers benefit from experiences, generating a lasting and tangible positive impact.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"italia\">Sustainable tourism in Italy<\/h2>\n<p><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-64886 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2.jpg\" alt=\"Sustainable Tourism Italy\" width=\"870\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2.jpg 870w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2-536x302.jpg 536w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2-570x320.jpg 570w, https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/Turismo-Sostenibile-Italia-870x490-2-344x194.jpg 344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 870px) 100vw, 870px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Italy<\/strong> is one of the ideal destinations for sustainable tourism: villages, natural parks, rural areas, and local communities offer authentic and low-impact experiences.<\/p>\n<p>Choosing conscious tourism in Italy means valuing the territory and protecting a unique global heritage.<\/p>\n<p>Also explore:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2025\/10\/journey-italy-suggestions-eco-friendly-alternative\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to discover Italy in an alternative and sustainable way<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2025\/11\/green-destinations-slow-travel-italy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to discover Italy in an alternative and sustainable way<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/italy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Best eco-friendly hospitality in Italy<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"#indice\">\u2b06 Back to index<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faq\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768821441436\" class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does sustainable tourism cost more?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, it often means making different choices, not necessarily more expensive ones.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768821476974\" class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is it possible to travel sustainably everywhere?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, every destination offers opportunities to reduce your environmental impact.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768821505798\" class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is sustainable tourism the same as responsible tourism?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">They are complementary concepts but not identical.<br \/>\n<strong>Sustainable tourism<\/strong> mainly concerns facilities, destinations, and policies that minimize the environmental, social, and economic impact of tourism, creating lasting benefits for local communities and the environment.<br \/>\n<strong>Responsible tourism<\/strong>, on the other hand, concerns the choices and behaviors of the traveler, who acts consciously and respectfully during the trip, personally contributing to the sustainability of destinations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>In conclusion, traveling sustainably means taking care of the world while exploring it.<\/strong><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2019\/11\/carbon-footprint-vacation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Every conscious choice<\/strong><\/a> helps build tourism that is fairer, more respectful, and long-lasting.<\/p>\n<p><em>Article updated by the Ecobnb editorial team \u2013 last revision 2026<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You hear about it more and more often, sustainable tourism is a way of traveling that respects the environment, local communities, and the economies of the regions. It doesn\u2019t mean giving up the pleasure of traveling, but choosing more conscious experiences that can generate lasting benefits for the places we visit. In this complete guide, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":24644,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[4],"tags":[10,25,56,58,59,60,71,73],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v19.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Sustainable Tourism Explained: Complete Guide - Ecobnb<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Curious about what is sustainable tourism? Discover its meaning, principles, benefits, and practical ways to travel responsibly and make a positive impact.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Sustainable Tourism Explained: Complete Guide - Ecobnb\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Curious about what is sustainable tourism? Discover its meaning, principles, benefits, and practical ways to travel responsibly and make a positive impact.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Ecobnb\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ecobnb\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2017-12-02T08:19:57+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-31T12:11:45+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1170\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"490\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Chiara Marras\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@ecobnb\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@ecobnb\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Chiara Marras\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Sustainable Tourism Explained: Complete Guide - Ecobnb","description":"Curious about what is sustainable tourism? Discover its meaning, principles, benefits, and practical ways to travel responsibly and make a positive impact.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Sustainable Tourism Explained: Complete Guide - Ecobnb","og_description":"Curious about what is sustainable tourism? Discover its meaning, principles, benefits, and practical ways to travel responsibly and make a positive impact.","og_url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/","og_site_name":"Ecobnb","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ecobnb","article_published_time":"2017-12-02T08:19:57+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-03-31T12:11:45+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1170,"height":490,"url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Chiara Marras","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@ecobnb","twitter_site":"@ecobnb","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Chiara Marras","Est. reading time":"8 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/"},"author":{"name":"Chiara Marras","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/52ce65689e38cbacd49d1d65910765dc"},"headline":"Sustainable Tourism Explained: A Complete Guide to Traveling Responsibly","datePublished":"2017-12-02T08:19:57+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-31T12:11:45+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/"},"wordCount":1216,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#organization"},"keywords":["better world","ecotourism","reduce the carbon footprint","respect for the environment","responsible tourism","responsible travel","slow travel","sustainable tourism"],"articleSection":["go green"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/","url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/","name":"Sustainable Tourism Explained: Complete Guide - Ecobnb","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2017-12-02T08:19:57+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-31T12:11:45+00:00","description":"Curious about what is sustainable tourism? Discover its meaning, principles, benefits, and practical ways to travel responsibly and make a positive impact.","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/2017\/12\/sustainable-tourism-what-is\/"]}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/","name":"Ecobnb","description":"Find sustainable accommodation","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Ecobnb","url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2016\/03\/logo_transparent_512x512.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/app\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2016\/03\/logo_transparent_512x512.png","width":512,"height":512,"caption":"Ecobnb"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ecobnb","https:\/\/twitter.com\/ecobnb"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/52ce65689e38cbacd49d1d65910765dc","name":"Chiara Marras","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/54e0cbd8f6686498c2c79f3852dabcfa?s=96&d=monsterid&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/54e0cbd8f6686498c2c79f3852dabcfa?s=96&d=monsterid&r=g","caption":"Chiara Marras"},"description":"Mi chiamo Chiara e vivo in una piccola isola della Sardegna. Spero ancora in un web che sia spazio di condivisione e divulgazione, e credo che l\u2019eco-sostenibilit\u00e0 sia una sfida imprescindibile del nostro tempo. Per questo, amo raccontare il viaggio come un\u2019esperienza autentica, in armonia con la natura e le culture locali.","url":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/author\/chiaramarras\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14179"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14179"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14179\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":64887,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14179\/revisions\/64887"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24644"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14179"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14179"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecobnb.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14179"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}