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Spain proudly participated as the Destination Partner at the Indian Responsible Tourism Awards 2025 (IRTA), held at the Rann Utsav, Tent City in Dhordo Village, Kutch, Gujarat. The event, organized by Outlook Traveller, celebrated excellence in sustainable and responsible tourism bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders.Elena Orland, Director of the Tourism Office of Spain in India, delivered a keynote address highlighting Spain’s pioneering role in sustainable tourism. She underscored the importance of balancing economic, social, and environmental factors to ensure long-term sustainability in the tourism sector.Spain’s Vision for Responsible TourismDuring her speech, Ms. Orland emphasized Spain’s proactive approach to responsible tourism, backed by significant investments and innovative policies. Spain has allocated over €2 billion towards sustainability initiatives funded by the European Union’s Next Generation Funds, aimed at fostering eco-friendly tourism development. She further elaborated on Spain’s extensive efforts in renewable energy, with nearly 50% of the country’s energy being generated from renewable sources. Spain also boasts the largest carbon-neutral high-speed rail network in Europe, ensuring sustainable connectivity for travelers.Pioneering Sustainability InitiativesSpain has been at the forefront of integrating sustainability into its tourism infrastructure. Key initiatives presented at IRTA 2025 included:- Green Hospitality: Over 400 eco-certified accommodations across Spain, including the historic Paradores hotel chain, which prioritizes energy efficiency and waste reduction.- Sustainable Mobility: A comprehensive high-speed rail network and investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, reducing tourism’s carbon footprint.- Nature Conservation: With 40% of its territory under environmental protection, Spain leads Europe in sustainable tourism offerings, boasting 55 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and the highest number of Blue Flag beaches.- Community-Based Tourism: Promotion of lesser-known destinations such as Castilla y León, Extremadura, and Aragón, encouraging responsible travel while preserving local cultures and traditions.Spain-India Collaboration in Sustainable TourismMs. Orland also highlighted the recent declaration of 2026 as the Spain-India Dual Year, an initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral relations in tourism, culture, and technology. She expressed Spain’s commitment to working closely with India in promoting sustainable tourism practices and fostering knowledge exchange.Spain’s participation at IRTA 2025 reaffirmed its leadership in responsible tourism and showcased its diverse offerings tailored for environmentally-conscious travelers. As global tourism continues to evolve, Spain remains dedicated to ensuring that its rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes are preserved for future generations.