The Cabildo of Lanzarote has stated that the initiative Epicentro Lanzarote, a two-day event dedicated to "promoting awareness of sustainable tourism at the regional level," ended successfully. It has also thanked the joint efforts of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the Lanzarote Foreign Promotion Society (SPEL - Turismo Lanzarote) and the UN Global Compact Spain. Held on February 13 and 14, 2025 in Jameos del Agua, the event brought together key players in the sector to foster dialogue and strengthen collective efforts towards sustainable tourism initiatives.
The event, which also coincided with the 30th anniversary of the signing of the first Responsible Tourism charter in Lanzarote, began with an institutional opening by Héctor Fernández, CEO of the Lanzarote Foreign Promotion Society, followed by Luigi Cabrini, President of the GSTC, and Silvia Rial, Head of Corporate and Sectoral Sustainability at the UN Global Compact Spain, and finally, the President of the Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort.
"Sustainability in Lanzarote is not just a future strategy, but a historical responsibility, and this meeting encourages us to continue advancing in the implementation of criteria that guarantee more respectful tourism with the environment, with our culture and with future generations," declared Oswaldo Betancort.
Subsequently, an introduction to the GSTC Criteria was carried out, led by GSTC trainer, Natalia Naranjo, who offered practical examples and real cases to help participants better understand and apply these global sustainability standards in the travel and tourism sector.
On the second day, attendees participated in a workshop where, organized in groups, they explored solutions to improve sustainable tourism practices in Lanzarote, applying the knowledge acquired in the previous day's training. The session concluded with a summary of the main lessons learned and a formal closing, followed by a networking lunch. This summary will serve as the basis for the creation of a practical toolkit, developed collaboratively by all the actors involved, guaranteeing a shared commitment to advancing sustainability in the tourism sector of Lanzarote.
Lanzarote joins GSTC and its 'Early Adopters' Program of the GSTC Criteria for Tourist Attractions
Lanzarote is a member of GSTC and is part of its 'Early Adopter' program in the implementation of the GSTC Criteria for Tourist Attractions, thus reaffirming its commitment to the sustainable management of tourism in its main tourist enclaves.
Through this initiative, the island will assess how its natural and cultural spaces align with the GSTC Criteria for Tourist Attractions, identifying opportunities for improvement in visitor management, conservation and community involvement, among other aspects. With this step, Lanzarote seeks to ensure that its iconic attractions are preserved and enjoyed sustainably for future generations.