Posted: November 7, 2023
Spain is a haven for lovers of sustainable tourism.
Spain is top of the list in Europe, with 44 Protected Natural Areas which comply with the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST), where protection of the natural environment is essential.
Last July, Spain presented to the United Nations its program to lead sustainable tourism in the European Union. The event focused on finding consensus around objective tools to be used for measuring sustainability in tourism. The Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) would allow the different public administrations to have data to design innovative policies to improve the sustainability of the sector. The second mechanism under discussion, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Framework, is designed to involve the private sector in the same objective.
Lanzarote was the first destination in the world to be declared a Biosphere Responsible Tourism Destination
The island of volcanoes is a unique moonscape. It's covered with craters, ravines and valleys of solidified lava. Over time a spectacular natural environment has been created which has been declared a Biosphere Reserve. The natural treasures and tranquility will make you feel like you're on another planet.
The unique geological heritage of this island led to its recognition by the UNESCO as the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands Geopark and it is a member of Spain's Ecotourism Club.
The volcanic origin of the archipelago becomes evident when you visit the Timanfaya National Park. From the natural lookout point of Montaña Rajada the surrounding landscape is a blur of fire, ash and rock. The pure beauty of this red and jet black soil has remained unspoiled by human activity.
In the Nature Reserve of the Pool of Los Clicos there is an extraordinary green lake over a volcanic crater.
Discover the relationship between the inhabitants and their unique natural environment and explore the footprint left by the architect César Manrique on the island and the significance of his ecological message. Most of his works are to be found in Lanzarote, including the renowned César Manrique Foundation. Discover the perfect harmony between art and the landscape, where respect for the environment is what is most important.
Vine-growing on Lanzarote gives rise to a unique, spectacular landscape. Wine- growing on the island is an impressive example of sustainability and adaptation to the natural conditions. The vineyards grown on volcanic sands make up a startling and fascinating scene. A beautiful landscape which would become a work of art in 1964 in the exhibition of photographs “Architecture without Architects” at MoMA New York.