Speakers highlighted the region’s vulnerability and the need for integrated policies prioritising ecological integrity, cultural preservation, and socio-economic benefits. Discussions emphasized the linkages between sustainable blue tourism and SDGs, advocating for a shift towards responsible and regenerative approaches. Panelists stressed the importance of nature-based tourism for conservation, collaborative efforts involving local communities, and leveraging existing sustainable blue tourism initiatives. Transnational cooperation, like the WestMed initiative, knowledge sharing, and capacity building were identified as crucial for regional progress.
The private sector perspective from Iberostar highlighted growing consumer demand for responsible travel and the long-term benefits of sustainability, with examples of companies implementing eco-friendly practices and investing in data-driven coastal restoration.

The importance of a regional policy framework, specifically the Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development (MSSD), was underscored, emphasizing the integration of sustainable development into environmental policies. UNEP/MAP‘s work on integrated coastal zone management and addressing tourism’s environmental impacts was also highlighted. The event concluded with a call for collective commitment and action, recognizing the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) as a significant opportunity to advance sustainable blue tourism and the 2030 Agenda.

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