The citizens of the Western Valleys Natural Park were able to learn about the diagnostic report on tourist activity carried out by eco-unión as part of the BioPirineo project. During the day, in addition to the presentation of the report, a participatory laboratory where the participants They shared their experiences and contributed ideas for sustainable tourism development of the region. This is only the first of numerous workshops that will be held throughout the project to continue generating concrete proposals and strategies.
Regarding the diagnosis presented, it should be noted that the municipalities of the Western Valleys have highlighted a sustained economic recovery after the pandemic, especially in the hospitality sector, which continues to represent the main economic activity in the region. However, the report also highlights the high seasonality of tourism, concentrated in the summer months, which limits economic stability in the rest of the year.
An important fact is the growth and diversification of the accommodation offer, with a significant increase in accommodation for tourist use in municipalities such as Aísa and Valle de Hecho. We can also observe a progressive recovery in tourist influx, even if the 2019 levels have not yet been reached.
The diagnosis concludes that to achieve sustainable and balanced development in this area of the Pyrenees, it is necessary to diversify the tourist offer and deseasonalize visits, promoting activities beyond the summer and betting on a tourism that respects the natural environment and cultural heritage.
Workshop: “Present and future of sustainable tourism in the Western Valleys”
In the participatory workshop, more than 30 participants, including neighbors and local actors, were divided into groups to create a brainstorming focused on several key aspects such as tourism, mobility and land management. Participants reflected on the challenges and opportunities the region faces in these areas, providing proposals that will contribute to the creation of a more sustainable tourism model adapted to needs of the environment.
The conclusions of the workshop indicated the importance of improving mobility in the area, with particular attention to public transport to reduce dependence on private cars and facilitate access for tourists. The need was also highlighted diversify the tourist offer to break with seasonality, and highlighted the protection of the territorypromoting a ttourism that respects the natural and cultural heritage of the Western Valleys. These results will be taken into consideration in the subsequent phases of the BioPirineo project.
The BioPirineo project, promoted by various bodies, aims to promote a model of sustainable development in the Aragonese Pyrenees, which integrates economic activities such as tourism, livestock farming and forestry management, respecting the natural environment and contributing to the settlement of the population in rural areas. Also search mitigate the effects of climate change in the region and ensure a prosperous future for its inhabitants.
This project has the support of the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO) funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.
Source: Ecodici
Interview between Time.news Editor and Sustainable Tourism Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another engaging discussion here at Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena González, an expert in sustainable tourism practices. Elena, thank you for joining us!
Dr. González: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share insights on sustainable tourism, particularly in the beautiful Western Valleys of the Pyrenees.
Editor: Recently, a diagnostic report was presented in the Western Valleys Natural Park, shedding light on tourist activity as part of the BioPirineo project. Can you summarize some of the key findings from that report?
Dr. González: Absolutely! The report revealed a sustained economic recovery in the region, especially in the hospitality sector, which is the backbone of the local economy. However, it also highlighted significant seasonality issues, with tourism heavily peaking in the summer months. This concentration poses challenges for economic stability throughout the year.
Editor: Interesting! So, while there’s growth, it seems to come with its obstacles. You mentioned seasonality—how does this impact the local community?
Dr. González: Seasonal tourism can create instability for local businesses and impacts employment opportunities. When tourist influx is concentrated only during specific months, year-round jobs become scarce. Diversifying the tourist offer and promoting activities beyond the summer is crucial to creating sustainable, year-round income for the community.
Editor: The report also mentioned an increase in diverse accommodation options, particularly in places like Aísa and Valle de Hecho. What does this mean for sustainable tourism?
Dr. González: A broader accommodation offering can attract a wider range of tourists, which is essential for reducing seasonality. More importantly, it allows local businesses to cater to different types of visitors—those looking for adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion. The key is ensuring that these accommodations adhere to sustainable practices to protect the environment and enhance the visitor experience.
Editor: Speaking of sustainability, the participatory workshop held with local residents and stakeholders seems like a great initiative. What kind of strategies did the participants focus on?
Dr. González: The workshop emphasized collaboration and community engagement. Participants brainstormed on various key aspects such as mobility, tourism management, and land use. The discussions revolved around the region’s challenges and opportunities, producing concrete proposals aimed at fostering tourism that respects the natural environment and cultural heritage.
Editor: It sounds like a productive session! In your view, what are the most important steps we should take moving forward to achieve sustainable tourism in the Western Valleys?
Dr. González: First, we need to diversify tourist offerings beyond the traditional summer exploits, creating attractions for winter sports, cultural festivals, or wellness retreats throughout the year. Second, promoting eco-friendly practices among both visitors and businesses is crucial. Lastly, fostering ongoing dialogue with local communities to ensure their needs and values shape the tourism development plans is essential for success.
Editor: Great points! As we wrap up, what message would you like to impart to the readers regarding the future of tourism in these beautiful valleys?
Dr. González: I’d love to emphasize that sustainable tourism isn’t just a goal—it’s a journey that requires the commitment of all stakeholders, including government, businesses, and the local community. By working together, we can create a balanced and respectful approach to tourism that benefits everyone while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the incredible Pyrenees.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. González, for your insights and important work in promoting sustainable tourism. We’re excited to see how the Western Valleys continue to evolve as a model for responsible travel!
Dr. González: Thank you for having me! Let’s stay hopeful and committed to sustainability in tourism.