Two major trends appear for the future of the tourism sector: Digitalization and sustainability. Regarding sustainable tourism, national and regional tourism agencies, on their part, can promote emerging destinations, less overcrowded spots, or nature-based locations, in order to better distribute travel flows, reduce environmental pressures and generate jobs in less-travelled areas or hinterlands. They

can also integrate local communities in the tourism planning and policy process; support sustainable activities based on biodiversity or cultural values; guarantee social rights, adequate salaries, and training programs for workers.

The integration of Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) in the blue economy sectors such as coastal and maritime tourism is a clear framework to align socio-economic benefits and environmental protection, increasing local communities’ resilience and ensuring long term sustainability29. Tour operators and travel agencies can on their side, reduce the carbon and water footprint of their supply chain, avoid food waste, eliminate single-use plastics, prioritize low- carbon transports, partner with local providers, provide appropriate training and salaries to their working force.

Source: https://www.ecounion.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Nota_Thefuture_mediterranean_tourism_03.pdf