SciTransfer
VERNE · Project

Circular Economy Toolkit and Business Models for Sustainable Tourism Destinations

environmentPilotedTRL 6

Imagine a tourist town where nothing goes to waste, from hotel food scraps to how visitors get around. Instead of the usual 'take-make-waste' cycle, this project creates a blueprint for cities to reuse everything efficiently. It's like a guidebook that helps local businesses and mayors switch to greener ways of operating without losing money.

By the numbers
5
European representative tourist destinations for pilots
17
Total consortium partners
11
Countries involved
The business problem

What needed solving

Tourism destinations rely on linear 'take-make-waste' models that deplete resources and damage the environment. This creates a conflict between economic growth and long-term ecological viability.

The solution

What was built

A one-stop-shop hub containing tools, expertise, and validated circular business models for tourism, including waste and wastewater management systems.

Audience

Who needs this

Hotel chain sustainability officersCity mayors of tourist hubsRegional tourism board directorsGreen transport fleet operators
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Hospitality
any
Target: Hotel and Resort Operators

If you are a hotel operator dealing with high food and water waste costs — this project developed circular business models that reduce resource depletion. These tools help you implement better waste management to lower overheads and improve your green rating.

Urban Transport
mid-size
Target: Electric Vehicle Fleet Providers

If you are a transport provider dealing with inefficient tourist mobility — this project developed systemic solutions including the use of electric vehicles. This allows you to integrate your fleet into a regional sustainable transport network.

Public Administration
enterprise
Target: Destination Management Organizations (DMOs)

If you are a city manager dealing with the environmental strain of mass tourism — this project developed a one-stop-shop of expertise and tools. You can use these to transition your entire region toward a sustainable economy.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or price of implementing these solutions?

Based on available project data, specific pricing or implementation costs are not provided; the project focuses on developing the business models and feasibility analysis.

At what scale are these solutions being tested?

The solutions are being implemented and demonstrated in 5 representative European tourist destinations as pilots.

How is the IP or licensing handled for the tools?

Based on available project data, there is no specific mention of licensing terms, though the project aims to be a one-stop-shop hub of expertise and best practices.

What is the timeline for the rollout?

The project runs from 2024-11-01 to 2027-10-31.

How do these tools integrate with existing tourism services?

The outcomes are incorporated into new business models that quantify the effects on the competitiveness and sustainability of existing services.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is well-balanced for a transition project, consisting of 17 partners across 11 countries. With a 24% industry ratio (4 companies) supported by 6 universities and 6 research centers, the project blends academic rigor with practical application. The heavy presence of research and university partners suggests a strong focus on the feasibility and quantification of the new business models.

How to reach the team

Contact PNO INNOVATION SL in Spain

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to find out how to apply these circular tourism models to your destination.

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