FITUR: Commitment to sustainability

FITUR 2024, to be organised by IFEMA Madrid from 24-28 January 2024, represents a global stage advocating environmental, social, and corporate responsibility in tourism. Comprising new segments like FITUR 4all and FiturNext Observatory, this edition emphasizes on accessible tourism and region revitalization.

TT Bureau

FITUR 2024, the International Tourism Trade Fair, scheduled from 24 to 28 January 2024 at IFEMA Madrid, is poised as a global platform advocating for environmental, social, and corporate governance responsibility within the tourism sector.

This edition introduces the novel FITUR 4all segment, dedicated to accessible tourism, with an emphasis on recognizing the most sustainable stand by assessing its carbon footprint. Additionally, the FiturNext Observatory will acknowledge tourism initiatives contributing to the revitalization of territories. Set against the backdrop of increasing global challenges, FITUR 2024 not only stands as a premier global tourism trade fair but also symbolizes a steadfast commitment toward sustainability and embracing environmental, social, and corporate governance responsibility within the industry. Recognizing the urgency to address contemporary challenges, the 44th edition aims to champion best practices and strategies fostering respectful tourism, furthering the development of a more sustainable economy.

The International Tourism Trade Fair intends to host a multitude of activities, workshops, and conferences, focusing on education, awareness, and knowledge exchange to underscore the significance of sustainable tourism. The objective remains to minimize environmental impact while positively influencing local culture, communities, corporate governance, and promoting equality and inclusion.

All sections within FITUR pivot around sustainability as a core theme. The inaugural FITUR 4all edition, developed in collaboration with Impulsa Igualdad, signifies a significant addition, aiming to underscore the progression toward accessible and inclusive tourism. In alignment with the pursuit of equality, recognition is also extended to the endeavours of FITUR Woman, spotlighting women’s contributions in tourism while advocating for equal opportunities, alongside FITUR LGBT+. Other sections like FITUR Screen, FITUR Sports, and FITUR Lingua aim to promote destinations, crucial for the even distribution of tourism activity, fundamental in community development and the transition toward more sustainable models. Notably, FITUR Cruises focuses on responsible blue tourism, while FITUR Talent addresses the social and economic dimensions of talent management in tourism.

The exhibitors’ responsibility at FITUR is encouraged through actionable guidelines and recommendations to mitigate the trade fair’s environmental impact and amplify its positive aspects. For the second consecutive year, IFEMA Madrid pledges to measure FITUR’s carbon footprint, showcasing its unwavering dedication to sustainability and environmental consciousness, striving to reduce detected levels in the forthcoming edition. Sustainable participation at FITUR is underscored by the Sustainable Stand Awards in collaboration with the Responsible Tourism Institute (ITR).

The FiturNext Observatory, now in its 5th edition, acknowledges projects for their replicability and positive impact across various domains. This initiative specifically rewards tourism endeavours contributing to the revitalization of regions, aiming to bolster employment and local consumption.