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Travel Daily News
23-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
GDS-Movement and ETC urge destinations to get ahead of new EU Green Rules
GDS-Movement and ETC launch white paper to guide destinations on EU sustainability regulations, ensuring compliance, risk mitigation, and new business opportunities. FRANKFURT – The Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) and the European Travel Commission (ETC) launched a white paper, A Destination's Guide to the New EU Sustainability Regulations, at IMEX Frankfurt 2025. It aims to help destinations in the tourism and events industry better prepare for significant upcoming regulatory changes. Being prepared will support companies with sustainability compliance, negative environmental impact reduction, reputational damage mitigation, financial and legal immunity, and new business opportunities. With the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (ECGTD), and the Green Claims Directive (GCD) coming into effect, the message is clear: 'Proactive destinations can lead by example while honouring the new regulations', as Guy Bigwood, CEO, GDS-Movement said. The new directives will require greater transparency, accountability, and stricter management of sustainability claims, reshaping how destination management organisations and event associations operate and communicate their environmental impacts. These regulations apply not only to destinations and businesses within Europe, but to any organisation operating in the EU market, including global accommodation platforms and digital intermediaries. This white paper was launched to help National Tourism Organisations (NTOs), Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) and the wider tourism and events industry navigate these changes and offers a roadmap, outlining practical steps to achieving compliance, managing risks, and seizing new opportunities. It also provides guidance on updated sustainability reporting and compliant communication strategies to help organisations navigate the evolving legislative landscape with confidence. 'This is not just about compliance – it's about leadership and new scope,' Bigwood commented. 'Destinations that act now will build trust, enhance their reputations, and be better-positioned for long-term success.' The white paper highlights three key actions: Understanding the roles and responsibilities involved in complying with the new EU directives Practical steps for aligning with the regulations, marketing claims, and destination management strategies How to tackle the risks of non-compliance and the opportunities of early adoption, such as improved reputation, new funding channels, and enhanced visitor trust One key opportunity is the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSME), a simplified ESG reporting framework developed by the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG). Although voluntary, this process can help DMOs that are SMEs access additional green financing, improve risk management, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. 'Sustainability is now a key factor in how destinations are viewed and engaged with,' added Eduardo Santander, CEO of ETC. 'NTOs and DMOs are in a unique position to lead the way, helping local businesses and stakeholders navigate the shift to more responsible, responsive tourism. With new EU rules on the horizon, it's essential they stay ahead of the curve and set the example for others to follow', he said. Page 1 / 25 Zoom 100%
eNCA
15-05-2025
- Politics
- eNCA
Rome businesses count their blessings with US pope
ROME - The election of the first US pope is a godsend to businesses in Rome, as big-spending pilgrims flocking to the Vatican are also expected to spend in the Eternal City. In the historical Trastevere district with its cobblestoned streets and ancient churches, shopkeepers say tourists from the United States are usually excellent customers -- and tippers. "We're really pleased, it's great for business," restaurant owner Cristiano Bolognesi told AFP following the election of Robert Francis Prevost last week as Pope Leo XIV. Americans "don't spend as much as before, but they still have dollars. I think the impact will be felt in the coming months," he said. At Rome's City Hall, tourism councilor Alessandro Onorato said he was sure "the election of Pope Leo XIV will affect the flow of American tourists" -- an already vast market. Half of the five million people who visited the Italian capital last year were from the United States, he said. That trend continued in the first two months of 2025, with 313,000 of the 633,000 people visiting Rome hailing from the United States, he said. The election of Chicago-born Prevost has generated enthusiasm in the pontiff's homeland, which has the fourth-largest Catholic population in the world. Rick, a US tourist who did not want to give his last name, looked up at the balcony on St. Peter's Basilica where the newly-elected pope made his first appearance Wednesday. He and his wife Karla said they thought Leo would attract not just proud Americans but also those disappointed by US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration message. "It's not just that (Prevost is) American, it's also the stuff he's done in other countries... his social justice mission to the Church, the world," said Karla, from Texas. "We're among the Americans who believe believe in taking care of the immigrants," said Rick. - South Americans too - AFP | JEFF PACHOUD Stefano Corbari, head of the Fiavet Lazio federation of travel agencies in the region encompassing Rome, said US tourism was "doing well right now". "We already had a boom last year, and American dioceses are generally well organised. Starting next year, they'll start organising trips to Rome," he said. According to survey in February by the European Travel Commission (ETC), some 33 percent of US tourists head to Europe with a spending budget of over 200 euros a day. That is compared to 29 percent of tourists from China and 20 percent from Canada. "It's no longer the golden age when American tourists spent huge sums, but they expect a certain level of quality, and travel for a short time, so their budget is in the upper middle range," Corbari told AFP. As Prevost, Pope Leo spent much of his career in Peru and therefore "may attract South Americans, who are good clients," said restaurant owner Bolognesi. Tourism in Italy directly accounts for more than six percent of GDP, according to official figures. That rises to almost 13 percent when indirect effects -- particularly restaurants, culture and transportation -- are taken into account. The Vatican -- which reported a consolidated loss of almost 70 million euros in 2023 -- would also welcome an uptick in visitor numbers to its money-making museums. Locals' opinions may differ. Like in other European cities, residents say Rome is a victim of overtourism. Rome City Hall announced at the end of 2024 that it was considering charging for access to the famous Trevi Fountain and limiting the opening of new short-term rentals. Local authorities have said they want tourism to be "sustainable for the city and for the environment" -- a theme dear to Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis. By Maxence D'aversa
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rome businesses count their blessings with US pope
The election of the first US pope is a godsend to businesses in Rome, as big-spending pilgrims flocking to the Vatican are also expected to spend in the Eternal City. In the historical Trastevere district with its cobblestoned streets and ancient churches, shopkeepers say tourists from the United States are usually excellent customers -- and tippers. "We're really pleased, it's great for business," restaurant owner Cristiano Bolognesi told AFP following the election of Robert Francis Prevost last week as Pope Leo XIV. Americans "don't spend as much as before, but they still have dollars. I think the impact will be felt in the coming months," he said. At Rome's City Hall, tourism councilor Alessandro Onorato said he was sure "the election of Pope Leo XIV will affect the flow of American tourists" -- an already vast market. Half of the five million people who visited the Italian capital last year were from the United States, he said. That trend continued in the first two months of 2025, with 313,000 of the 633,000 people visiting Rome hailing from the United States, he said. The election of Chicago-born Prevost has generated enthusiasm in the pontiff's homeland, which has the fourth largest Catholic population in the world. Rick, a US tourist who did not want to give his last name, looked up at the balcony on St. Peter's Basilica where the newly-elected pope made his first appearance Wednesday. He and his wife Karla said they thought Leo would attract not just proud Americans but also those disappointed by US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration message. "It's not just that (Prevost is) American, it's also the stuff he's done in other countries... his social justice mission to the Church, the world," said Karla, from Texas. "We're among the Americans who believe believe in taking care of the immigrants," said Rick. - South Americans too - Stefano Corbari, head of the Fiavet Lazio federation of travel agencies in the region encompassing Rome, said US tourism was "doing well right now". "We already had a boom last year, and American dioceses are generally well organised. Starting next year, they'll start organising trips to Rome," he said. According to survey in February by the European Travel Commission (ETC), some 33 percent of US tourists head to Europe with a spending budget of over 200 euros a day. That is compared to 29 percent of tourists from China and 20 percent from Canada. "It's no longer the golden age when American tourists spent huge sums, but they expect a certain level of quality, and travel for a short time, so their budget is in the upper middle range," Corbari told AFP. As Prevost, Pope Leo spent much of his career in Peru and therefore "may attract South Americans, who are good clients," said restaurant owner Bolognesi. Tourism in Italy directly accounts for more than six percent of GDP, according to official figures. That rises to almost 13 percent when indirect effects -- particularly restaurants, culture and transportation -- are taken into account. The Vatican -- which reported a consolidated loss of almost 70 million euros in 2023 -- would also welcome an uptick in visitor numbers to its money-making museums. Locals' opinions may differ. Like in other European cities, residents say Rome is a victim of overtourism. Rome City Hall announced at the end of 2024 that it was considering charging for access to the famous Trevi Fountain and limiting the opening of new short-term rentals. Local authorities have said they want tourism to be "sustainable for the city and for the environment" -- a theme dear to Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis. max/ide/lth
France 24
15-05-2025
- France 24
Rome businesses count their blessings with US pope
In the historical Trastevere district with its cobblestoned streets and ancient churches, shopkeepers say tourists from the United States are usually excellent customers -- and tippers. "We're really pleased, it's great for business," restaurant owner Cristiano Bolognesi told AFP following the election of Robert Francis Prevost last week as Pope Leo XIV. Americans "don't spend as much as before, but they still have dollars. I think the impact will be felt in the coming months," he said. At Rome's City Hall, tourism councilor Alessandro Onorato said he was sure "the election of Pope Leo XIV will affect the flow of American tourists" -- an already vast market. Half of the five million people who visited the Italian capital last year were from the United States, he said. That trend continued in the first two months of 2025, with 313,000 of the 633,000 people visiting Rome hailing from the United States, he said. The election of Chicago-born Prevost has generated enthusiasm in the pontiff's homeland, which has the fourth largest Catholic population in the world. Rick, a US tourist who did not want to give his last name, looked up at the balcony on St. Peter's Basilica where the newly-elected pope made his first appearance Wednesday. He and his wife Karla said they thought Leo would attract not just proud Americans but also those disappointed by US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration message. "It's not just that (Prevost is) American, it's also the stuff he's done in other countries... his social justice mission to the Church, the world," said Karla, from Texas. "We're among the Americans who believe believe in taking care of the immigrants," said Rick. South Americans too Stefano Corbari, head of the Fiavet Lazio federation of travel agencies in the region encompassing Rome, said US tourism was "doing well right now". "We already had a boom last year, and American dioceses are generally well organised. Starting next year, they'll start organising trips to Rome," he said. According to survey in February by the European Travel Commission (ETC), some 33 percent of US tourists head to Europe with a spending budget of over 200 euros a day. That is compared to 29 percent of tourists from China and 20 percent from Canada. "It's no longer the golden age when American tourists spent huge sums, but they expect a certain level of quality, and travel for a short time, so their budget is in the upper middle range," Corbari told AFP. As Prevost, Pope Leo spent much of his career in Peru and therefore "may attract South Americans, who are good clients," said restaurant owner Bolognesi. Tourism in Italy directly accounts for more than six percent of GDP, according to official figures. That rises to almost 13 percent when indirect effects -- particularly restaurants, culture and transportation -- are taken into account. The Vatican -- which reported a consolidated loss of almost 70 million euros in 2023 -- would also welcome an uptick in visitor numbers to its money-making museums. Locals' opinions may differ. Like in other European cities, residents say Rome is a victim of overtourism. Rome City Hall announced at the end of 2024 that it was considering charging for access to the famous Trevi Fountain and limiting the opening of new short-term rentals. Local authorities have said they want tourism to be "sustainable for the city and for the environment" -- a theme dear to Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis.
Int'l Business Times
15-05-2025
- Business
- Int'l Business Times
Rome Businesses Count Their Blessings With US Pope
The election of the first US pope is a godsend to businesses in Rome, as big-spending pilgrims flocking to the Vatican are also expected to spend in the Eternal City. In the historical Trastevere district with its cobblestoned streets and ancient churches, shopkeepers say tourists from the United States are usually excellent customers -- and tippers. "We're really pleased, it's great for business," restaurant owner Cristiano Bolognesi told AFP following the election of Robert Francis Prevost last week as Pope Leo XIV. Americans "don't spend as much as before, but they still have dollars. I think the impact will be felt in the coming months," he said. At Rome's City Hall, tourism councilor Alessandro Onorato said he was sure "the election of Pope Leo XIV will affect the flow of American tourists" -- an already vast market. Half of the five million people who visited the Italian capital last year were from the United States, he said. That trend continued in the first two months of 2025, with 313,000 of the 633,000 people visiting Rome hailing from the United States, he said. The election of Chicago-born Prevost has generated enthusiasm in the pontiff's homeland, which has the fourth largest Catholic population in the world. Rick, a US tourist who did not want to give his last name, looked up at the balcony on St. Peter's Basilica where the newly-elected pope made his first appearance Wednesday. He and his wife Karla said they thought Leo would attract not just proud Americans but also those disappointed by US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration message. "It's not just that (Prevost is) American, it's also the stuff he's done in other countries... his social justice mission to the Church, the world," said Karla, from Texas. "We're among the Americans who believe believe in taking care of the immigrants," said Rick. Stefano Corbari, head of the Fiavet Lazio federation of travel agencies in the region encompassing Rome, said US tourism was "doing well right now". "We already had a boom last year, and American dioceses are generally well organised. Starting next year, they'll start organising trips to Rome," he said. According to survey in February by the European Travel Commission (ETC), some 33 percent of US tourists head to Europe with a spending budget of over 200 euros a day. That is compared to 29 percent of tourists from China and 20 percent from Canada. "It's no longer the golden age when American tourists spent huge sums, but they expect a certain level of quality, and travel for a short time, so their budget is in the upper middle range," Corbari told AFP. As Prevost, Pope Leo spent much of his career in Peru and therefore "may attract South Americans, who are good clients," said restaurant owner Bolognesi. Tourism in Italy directly accounts for more than six percent of GDP, according to official figures. That rises to almost 13 percent when indirect effects -- particularly restaurants, culture and transportation -- are taken into account. The Vatican -- which reported a consolidated loss of almost 70 million euros in 2023 -- would also welcome an uptick in visitor numbers to its money-making museums. Locals' opinions may differ. Like in other European cities, residents say Rome is a victim of overtourism. Rome City Hall announced at the end of 2024 that it was considering charging for access to the famous Trevi Fountain and limiting the opening of new short-term rentals. Local authorities have said they want tourism to be "sustainable for the city and for the environment" -- a theme dear to Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis. Tourism in Italy directly accounts for more than six percent of GDP AFP
