Spain
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Celebrating diversity in all its forms
The diversity of Spain’s landscapes is as immense as its cultural heritage. From the remote Pyrenean mountains to the wild Atlantic cliffs ending in the delightful Mediterranean coasts. As for its culture, both ancestral and living, the outcome of a historical crossroad which crystallises in an outstanding gastronomy, great wines, and unique architecture and artistic expressions.
Read further to find out about sustainable tourism in Spain!
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GOOD TO KNOW
Sustainability
The highly appreciated good Spanish weather is not only a tourist attraction but also a key source for the energy transition that is slowly decarbonizing its economy. Spain has taken the lead in the solar energy sector in Europe and it’s the 6th in the world with higher solar-generated energy capacity. Spain is seriously committed to fight climate change as its effects are already showing up with less rain and higher risk of acidification in the southern part of the country.
Tourism & People
Spain is one of the most visited countries in Europe, but the most popular destinations are not always the most sustainable. Travelling without damaging the environment and at the same time benefiting the local community is a modality that is slowly growing interest in some Spanish destinations. There are already 8 destinations that joined and compromised with Green Destinations, which evidences their commitment to responsible tourism.
GOOD TRAVEL TIPS
Train advantages
Take advantage of the discounts offered when travelling through Spain by train. By travelling by train, you can get discounts for cultural visits (AVE) or unique experiences (Tren dels Llacs).
Keep it local
Supporting cultural events and local crafts will not only improve the economy of locals, but your memories will be more authentic. Nevertheless, keep in mind that religious and traditional events (very common and popular in Spain) are not created for tourists, try to not interfere. Get rid of any prejudices or previous stereotypes and establish healthy relationships with the locals, it will boost your engagement and joy.
Waste separation for recycling
For separate waste disposal, remember this color code:
GREEN bin for glass; BLUE for paper and cardboard; YELLOW for plastics, metal & tetrabricks; BROWN for organic matter; GREY for rest waste (non-recyclable); and a specific WHITE container for medical waste.
For any other kind of waste (textile, oils, etc.) there is always a “Punto Limpio” (local waste facility) where you can dispose of your waste. Follow this link to find your closest Punto Limpio.
Getting around
The easiest and fastest way to discover Spain is through its high speed trains (AVE): A fast, safe and sustainable transport, which makes the trip itself part of a unique experience. Moreover, if you choose these trains to travel, you can get discounts for cultural visits and get to know some of the most important Spanish cities. It is also possible to get to any corner of Spain by bus through the bus company ALSA or by car-sharing. There are more than enough options for a sustainable trip in Spain!
GOOD PLACES TO STAY
Book your green hotel through EcoHotels!
EcoHotels was founded in 2020, as a responsible and sustainable alternative to the large and dominant online travel agencies (OTAs), whose business model and high commissions severely decimate individual hotels´ identity, concept and bottom line. EcoHotels´ mission is to be a community for hotels, sharing knowledge and best practices, and standing side by side to promote sustainability in the travel industry.
We have with many years in the hospitality business also experienced a demand for sustainable and certified hotels, why we also aim to be a community for travellers, who care about acting as responsibly as possible, and want to have a trustworthy source of information – who also wish to travel as sustainably as possible, supporting high-quality, certified hotels and helping make travel a force for good around the globe.
In this page you can find a selection of accommodations available and bookable via EcoHotels.