Building Sustainable Tourism: Insights from the ‘Impact to Balance’ Conference
Event Overview
The Insular Youth Center in Puerto del Rosario is set to host an exciting professional event on December 19, 2025. Titled “From Impact to Balance: Building Sustainable Tourism,” this gathering aims to unite tourism professionals, institutional representatives, and experts to explore a more responsible approach to tourism in the Canary Islands. With prominent figures such as Jessica de León, the Government of the Canary Islands’ Tourism and Employment Counselor, and Antonio Hormiga, President of Asofuer, the conference promises to catalyze meaningful discussions.
Goals and Objectives
The event’s focus is crystal clear: to analyze the challenges and opportunities of sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands. Attendees will learn about best practices already implemented in the sector, fostering public-private collaboration as part of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program aims to inspire participants through high-level presentations and successful case studies, laying a foundation for a more balanced tourism model that aligns with contemporary environmental challenges.
Noteworthy Sessions
The day will kick off with an opening ceremony led by Jessica de León, Ignacio Solana (manager of Gesprotur), and Antonio Hormiga. They will set the stage for what promises to be an enriching experience.
Keynote Presentations
One of the standout moments includes a presentation by Iván González Gómez, CEO of Ataraxia Nova. He will shed light on the concept of Regenerative Tourism, emphasizing approaches that not only mitigate tourism’s negative impacts but also generate tangible benefits for the local environment and communities.
Following this, José Juan Lorenzo, manager of Promotur, will discuss the Journey toward Decarbonization. His focus will be on reducing emissions and necessary industry transformations to achieve climate-neutral tourism.
Success Stories in Sustainability
An essential segment of the program is dedicated to sharing real-world success stories, illustrating initiatives that have already yielded positive results. Key presentations will include participation from ECOAQUA, representing the University Institute of Sustainable Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems at ULPGC. They will present their project “Cappellett,” aimed at reducing plastic waste and showcasing results specifically within Fuerteventura.
In addition, Moisés Expósito González, sustainability coordinator at GF Hotels, will detail the company’s journey toward adopting more sustainable practices. Joane Hendrix, founder of Travel Without Plastic, will provide insights into practical initiatives currently being used in the tourism sector to reduce plastic consumption.
Exploring Economic Opportunities in Waste Management
After a coffee break, the conference will transition into a presentation by Juan Manuel Revuelta, CEO of FINNOVA and director of STARTUP EUROPE ACCELERATOR. His talk will revolve around the European Union’s evolution concerning the 2030 Agenda, highlighting the incentives available for fostering sustainable projects in the tourism sector.
The event will include a round table discussion titled “Waste: An Underappreciated Resource.” This thought-provoking dialogue will feature representatives from ECOAQUA, project manager in renewable energies Gerardo García Machín, and Mario de la Cruz, manager of ASOFUER. They will explore waste management as both an economic and environmental opportunity within the tourism model.
Conclusion
With a dedicated focus on sustainable practices, this journey from “Impact to Balance” is not just a call for change but a roadmap for the future of tourism in the Canary Islands. As the industry navigates the challenges of modernity, the insights shared in this conference could steer the region toward a more responsible and resilient tourism model.
