The year 2024 has been a period of significant progress for Aethnic, marked by a commitment to a fairer, more sustainable tourism model aligned with the values of the social and solidarity economy. Throughout this year, we have led innovative projects, established strategic alliances, and generated tangible impacts in the communities and territories where we work.
A year of positive impact
As part of the RurAll project, we have created a regenerative tourism network aimed at revitalizing rural territories. This initiative has not only offered authentic tourism experiences but has also strengthened the economic and social fabric in five key regions. The platform launched in September facilitated the creation of eight new experiences that highlight local culture and encourage active community participation.
Another notable achievement has been the consolidation of our impactful travel programs in Morocco, Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea Bissau. More than 280 travelers participated in 52 carefully designed itineraries that not only offer enriching experiences but also generate positive impacts on local economies. Participants rated these experiences as transformative and authentic, reinforcing our responsible tourism model.
In the field of local tourism, the Aethnic Network (Xarxa Aethnic) has continued to grow, offering more than 40 active experiences promoting proximity tourism aligned with ESS principles. This platform has connected small local providers with an audience increasingly aware of the need for ethical and responsible tourism.
International collaboration has also been a key pillar this year, especially through the HOSP.ECO project. Together with partners from five European countries, we have developed an innovative tool to measure and reduce environmental impact in the HORECA sector. Additionally, we launched a free online learning platform with training resources for professionals, consolidating our commitment to training and sustainable leadership.
At the same time, the Greenhost project began with great momentum. The first transnational meeting held in Thessaloniki brought together 19 partners from seven European countries to lay the foundations for sustainable transformation in the hospitality industry. The initial report provided an accurate overview of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
Aethnic’s commitment to its local environment was also reflected in initiatives such as TurismESS. In collaboration with local stakeholders, we have worked on creating a tourism ecosystem aligned with eco-social transition goals. Concrete actions, such as organizing a hackathon, updating the TurismESS guide, and holding a debate attended by over 80 participants, have helped highlight and strengthen this responsible tourism model.
We have also addressed social challenges through the Tourism and Gender project, focused on the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in the tourism industry. Through training sessions, the development of a best practices report, and an open dialogue space, we have advanced toward a more inclusive and respectful tourism model.
Additionally, the Climate Route has used tourism as a tool for raising awareness about climate change. The thematic routes developed in Barcelona, combined with online training and capacity building for designing educational itineraries in five Spanish cities, have marked a significant step in our commitment to environmentally impactful tourism.
Internationally, we collaborated with artisan communities in Chefchaouen through the Tourism and International Development project, where 65 women strengthened their skills and improved the commercialization of their products, contributing to the construction of a more ethical and equitable supply chain.
Commitment and transparency: Our Social Balance
Aethnic’s commitment to sustainability and equity is reflected in our Social Balance. We have implemented an environmental management system that promotes both internal and external awareness. Gender equity remains a priority, with 50% of leadership positions held by women. Additionally, we ensure salary transparency and carry out 48% of our purchases within the social and solidarity economy, aligning every decision with our core values.
Looking to the future
The year 2025 presents a new opportunity to continue innovating, collaborating, and transforming tourism into a real tool for social and environmental change. At Aethnic, we remain committed to building a tourism model that not only generates economic value but also promotes people’s well-being and environmental care.
Thank you for joining us on this journey toward a fairer and more sustainable future.
