FITURNEXT is inviting projects from around the world that demonstrate how tourism can contribute to sustainable water use
The FITURNEXT Observatory, an initiative under the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), has launched its seventh edition with a call for innovative tourism practices that promote efficient and responsible water management.
According to the press statement, as part of its 2026 Challenge, FITURNEXT is inviting projects from around the world that demonstrate how tourism can contribute to sustainable water use, in alignment with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The statement adds that these include ensuring access to clean water, promoting health and wellbeing, supporting climate action and encouraging responsible consumption and production.
FITUR says with water scarcity and pollution threatening communities and ecosystems globally, FITURNEXT’s focus comes at a critical time.
The statement adds that the United Nations data reveals that over one billion people still lack access to safe drinking water, and only a tiny fraction, 0.5 pc, of the world’s water is usable freshwater.
FITUR adds that the number of urban residents facing water scarcity is projected to double by 2050, raising the spectre of a global water crisis.
According to the statement, FITURNEXT is seeking entries from companies, public administrations and organisations that have developed replicable models for sustainable water management in tourism. The competition is divided into three categories, namely Destinations and Territories, targeting public sector strategies, HORECA and Transport, for hotels, restaurants, and transport providers, and Other Agents in the Tourism Value Chain, which includes travel agencies and experience companies. Submissions are open until August 31, and the selected projects will be honoured at FITUR 2026 in January.
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