In New Zealand, the success of tourism is evaluated through surveys of citizens to measure the positive impact of this industry on their lives, explained Francisco Rodríguez from Ideas for Change. On the other hand, the improvement of depopulated areas could be achieved by utilizing abandoned houses in rural areas, although there are obstacles regarding the awareness of small-town mayors about the available aid in this regard.
Jesús Sánchez Lambás questioned the resistance of some administrations towards alternative tourism models and restrictive regulations, pointing out that alternative tourism can revitalize communities, keeping services open and bringing in new families. For his part, Alberto Alfonso Pordomingo from Apadrinaunolivo.org expressed his dissatisfaction with massive aid to traditional tourism models during the pandemic, sidelining more sustainable proposals.
In Spain, short-term rental stands out as a distributor of tourism that benefits both urban centers and rural areas, offering development opportunities according to Francisco Rodríguez. Regenerative tourism, which goes beyond sustainability, can economically boost less frequented areas with natural or cultural attractions.
The debate on sustainability and the rural development of tourism intensifies as short-term rentals continue to grow in Spain. Experts like Sara Rodríguez, Alberto Alfonso Pordomingo, Francisco Rodríguez, and Jesús Sánchez Lambás agree on the importance of promoting more sustainable tourism that benefits local communities. Through tax incentives and exemptions, the aim is to support tourist apartments as a way to contribute to environmental sustainability and relieve congested tourist areas.
Tourism in rural Spanish areas has been driven by initiatives promoting local community participation, becoming guardians of the territory. Successful projects in rural areas can have a positive effect on nearby municipalities, as exemplified by the initiative to sponsor olive trees. The decentralization of tourism and its economic, social, and environmental impact are crucial issues for this constantly evolving sector.
