Following recent demonstrations in the Canary Islands that have led to negative international perceptions about the region's safety and approach to tourism, the authorities are determined to rectify the image.
The Association of Tourist Municipalities of the Canary Islands (AMTC) recently convened in Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote, to address the matter, among other pressing topics.
AMTC Vice President Onalia Bueno emphasised that municipalities are committed to reversing this negative impression, reinforcing the Canary Islands’ welcoming and hospitable spirit that contrasts with any distorted public perceptions.
A central focus of the AMTC assembly was the "Canary Green" project, a decarbonisation and sustainable development initiative with an €8 million budget funded by the EU's Next Generation funds.
AMTC President José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga outlined the commitment of the Canary Islands to pioneering a greener tourism model. "Decarbonising our destinations is no longer an option but an urgent necessity to protect our environment and ensure the well-being of both visitors and residents," Rodríguez Fraga stated.
Legislative Advances for Tourist Infrastructure
The AMTC also made progress toward solidifying a legislative initiative that seeks to define "tourist municipality," addressing the unique needs of tourism-centric regions.
This clarification will allow for more targeted support in upcoming tourism programs and projects. Fraga highlighted the importance of this move, noting that municipalities with high tourist traffic require clear guidelines for support initiatives aimed at developing sustainable tourism infrastructure.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism on Global Platforms
Representatives from the Canary Islands will be attending two significant global tourism fairs, the World Travel Market (WTM) in London and Fitur in Madrid, to showcase their advancements in sustainable practices and tourism innovation.
These events offer a platform to highlight the Canaries' commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, which are critical for maintaining the competitiveness of the islands as a top tourist destination.
Unified Efforts in the Tourism Sector
The assembly host, Tías Mayor José Juan Cruz Saavedra, praised the AMTC for selecting his municipality for this essential meeting. He emphasised the value of collaborative spaces like these, which enable municipalities to coordinate strategies that benefit the tourism sector across the islands.
With a renewed focus on sustainability and hospitality, the Canary Islands are positioning themselves to counter negative perceptions and lead by example in sustainable tourism, striving for a balanced approach that respects both local needs and environmental demands.
