Ensuring the environmental sustainability of tourism
Multilevel regulatory instruments
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35295/osls.iisl.2661Keywords:
Public policies, EU directives, environmental assessment, multi-level governance, territorial planningAbstract
This article explores the main policy options that might ensure environmentally sustainable tourism. This goal can only be partially ensured by the free market forces, therefore regulatory action is needed. Regulatory responses are needed at all territorial levels, due to the horizontal and comprehensive reach of tourism. With this idea in mind, the article identifies and presents the main regulatory instruments adopted to ensure the environmental sustainability of tourism. First, the legal tools and instruments of the two most important international organisations in Europe are discussed (with a focus on environmental assessments of projects and plans). Then, the articles focuses on Spain. After presenting in broad terms the allocation of competences in the domain of sustainable tourism, the article presents the main initiatives adopted at national and regional level, not forgetting the local one. Special attention is given to physical planning, considered the paramount governmental tool to attain sustainable tourism.
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