Brussels, 20/02/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 20 February, the European Commission presented a new strategy to support coastal and maritime tourism in Europe. Recognising the sector's potential for sustainable growth and job creation, the strategy outlines 14 EU initiatives to help coastal regions and businesses tackle the challenges they face and strengthen the sector's position as a key driver of Europe's blue economy.
Despite its undoubted potential, the sector faces a number of challenges: gaps in data and knowledge, volatility of demand, high seasonality, a lack of adequate skills and innovation, and difficulties accessing financing.
The measures presented want to address these challenges and create an environment that encourages investment. They will also help ensure the sustainability of the sector's activities, preserve the natural and cultural heritage, and make the sector more competitive globally. The Commission is proposing to 1) create an online guide to funding opportunities (particularly aimed at SMEs); 2) promote Europe-wide dialogue with cruise ship operators, the port authorities and other players; 3) develop the maritime dimension in EU tourist initiatives; 4) support the development of transnational and inter-regional partnerships and networks, as well as specialised strategies; 5) boost innovative management through the use of ICT; 6) improve the availability of data on the coastal and maritime tourism sector; 7) promote ecotourism and create links between sustainable actions; 8) promote strategies for fighting pollution and waste; 9) begin research into improving the connectivity of islands and developing tourist strategies that are adapted to islands' specific needs; 10) carry out a specific examination to identify innovative practices that could help the development of marinas.
The strategy will be examined in Athens on 10 March, at a conference organised by the Greek Presidency. Concrete measures, however, will be put into practice in the next few months. (IL/transl.fl)