Friday, January 24, 2025
The sixth iteration of FITURNEXT, the Sustainability Observatory of the International Tourism Trade Fair in Madrid, is set to unfold in a collaborative effort with Aqualia, renowned for its expertise in managing the complete water cycle. This event will take place from January 22 to 25 at IFEMA MADRID, spotlighting pioneering initiatives in sustainable food management, surplus reduction, and the integration of circular economies and cutting-edge technologies.
Unveiling Insights into Sustainable Tourism and Food Management A pivotal moment of this year’s event will be the release of the report titled “Towards Sustainable Food Management Through Tourism.” This detailed study explores both private and public ventures that advance food sustainability. Francisco Rodríguez, the Head of Tourism at Ideas for Change, highlighted the importance of the report’s findings being replicable, which he believes is crucial for scaling impact across the sector.
Recognizing Excellence in Sustainability Efforts The ceremony will commend notable contributions to Challenge 2025, with accolades handed to outstanding projects. Esteemed attendees will include Rosario Sánchez Grau, Secretary of State for Tourism; Adela Moreda, a member of the FiturNext Advisory Board; and Lucas Díaz, Director for Spain at Aqualia. Winners such as the Sustainable Gastronomic Routes of Extremadura, Hurtigruten Cruises, and Too Good To Go will be recognized, with representatives like Marisa Dominguez Contador and Àlex Pàmies receiving awards on behalf of their initiatives.
Dynamic Discussions on Reducing Food Surplus A roundtable focusing on achieving zero surplus in the tourism industry will be held at the FiturNext venue, moderated by Javi Creus of Ideas for Change. Esteemed panelists will include Rafael Fernández-Álava from Costa Cruceros, Álvaro Sánchez López from Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, and Rosa Nordfeldt from Air Europa, discussing regulatory improvements, staff training, and technological advancements essential for effective waste management.
This session will also explore Air Europa’s efforts towards greater fuel efficiency and how these endeavors contribute to broader sustainability goals within the tourism sector.
Highlighting Regional and Gastronomic Tourism Initiatives The event’s later sessions will spotlight winners like Patricia Moreno Ramos and Juan Antonio Bello, who will share insights into Extremadura’s three sustainable gastronomic routes—Cheese, Olive Oil, and Iberian—which combine cultural and culinary tourism to offer unique local experiences.
Additionally, discussions will delve into the circular food systems implemented by Hurtigruten Cruises and an innovative app developed by Meliá Hotels International that connects food surplus from hotels with potential users, illustrating the industry’s role in combating food waste.
Launching Global Anti-Food Waste Campaigns The opening day will conclude with a keynote from Virginia Fernández-Trapa of UN Tourism titled “Prevent. Redistribute. Circular. – Joining Global Efforts Against Food Waste,” emphasizing the collaborative nature of fighting food waste on an international scale.
Inaugurating a Platform for Sustainable Tourism Dialogue FiturNext 2025 kicks off with a host of notable speakers from the public sector and the tourism industry, underscoring a unified commitment to advancing food sustainability. Public figures like Ignacio Gragera and Silvia Heredia will join experts such as Víctor Monsalvo and Dr. Mariana Aldrigui, highlighting the depth of discussion and expertise present at this landmark event.
As FiturNext 2025 continues, it remains a cornerstone for fostering innovation and collaborative solutions in sustainable tourism, bringing together a diverse array of policymakers, industry leaders, and experts dedicated to shaping a sustainable future in tourism.
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