Agenda & Activities

09:00 - 10:00

BLUE TOURISM ECONOMICS STRATEGIES

In nations where tourism plays a crucial role in GDP and where marine natural resources are abundant, the development of blue economy strategies applied to tourism not only becomes a viable option, but a strategic imperative. These strategies not only allow to take advantage and preserve the rich natural assets, but also give a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves in a saturated global market. By adopting innovative and sustainable approaches that prioritize the conservation of marine ecosystems and the integration of the local community, these destinations can highlight as leaders in responsible and high quality tourism. The blue economy applied to tourism not only creates a more competitive offer, but also establishes a model to follow for other destinations, establishing a harmonious balance between economic growth and the preservation of natural values, resulting in a winning approach for generations present and future. In a face to face format, facing the strategies of several countries, we will be able to enjoy the backbone elements of the Blue Tourism Strategies that are inspiration models in this area. Something unpublished so far...

Gonzalo Alfredo La Rosa (Moderator)
Director del Instituo Ciudades del Futuro

Gustavo Ventura
Secretary of Tourism - Municipality of Ushuaia (Argentina)

Karina Fortete
Project Coordinator - Montevideo Smart Destination (Uruguay)

Edurne Vidal
General Manager - Tourism Agency of Santander

10:00 - 10:50

MINI FOR THE OCEANS AND SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY

The “Mini For The Oceans” project by Mini Spain is an initiative in collaboration with Gravity Wave to promote actions aimed at cleaning of the sea bottom and retrieving fishing nets, the main type of plastic waste found on the seabed. The idea is to recycle the nets and create new products such as street furniture. This initiative is 100% in line with BMW Group’s sustainability policy, which aims at tackling the environmental challenges affecting the oceans and the sustainable mobility. Through this project Mini shows its commitment to leading the conservation of marine environments and to promoting more responsible mobility practices in terms of electrification, circular economy and clean technologies, demonstrating its commitment to a cleaner and healthier future, both on the road and in marine ecosystems.

Miriam Aristegui
Strategic Alliances and Partnerships - Gravity Wave for #PlasticFreeOceans

10:50 - 11:00

REFILL THE FUTURE, REFILL THE OCEAN

Iván Bergés
Growth Director - Aguakm0

Santi Mier
CEO - Ocean52

11:30 - 12:30

WHAT CAN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SPAIN DO FOR THE COASTAL DESTINATIONS OF THE COUNTRY IN THE 21ST CENTURY?

National Geographic will show us the perspective of its experts, who are used to portraying the most extraordinary places in the world, the most unique tourist experiences and the most impressive flora and fauna we have on the planet, about Blue Tourism. Gonçalo Pereira, General Director of National Geographic for Spain and Portugal, will join us on stage to tell us not only what is seen behind the camera, but also the importance of media, such as them, to disseminate unique natural and tourist experiences, especially in Blue Tourism and how their journalism helps to bring this extraordinary nature closer to the general public.

Gonçalo Pereira
Director Spain and Portugal - National Geographic

12:30 - 13:30

INLAND BLUE TOURISM: GREAT LAKES OF CANADA AND THE USA

Anna Tanski
Tourism Director - Great Lakes USA and Canada

14:30 - 15:30

THE SUSTAINABILITY OF BLUE TOURISM

Coastal and maritime tourism is one of the most important economic sectors of the blue economy. It enables the creation of jobs and the socio-economic development of destinations, but at the same time it contributes to global warming, fragilizes vulnerable ecosystems, and can generate tensions with local communities. It is therefore necessary to properly plan and manage blue tourism through inclusive and participatory mechanisms, nature-based services and solutions, and responsible and sustainable business models. In this session, the Blue Tourism initiative, led by two of the most innovative entities in this field, will be presented. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), formed by governmental and civil society organizations, and the ECO-UNION association, a think tank and action center for environmental sustainability in in the Euro-Mediterranean region.

Arnau Teixidor
Ecosystem Resilience & Spatial Planning Programme Officer - International Union for the Conservation of Nature - IUCN

Giulia Balestracci
Project Manager Blue Tourism Initiave - Eco Union

15:30 - 16:30

MUSEUMS, AQUARIA AND CLIMATE CHANGE: STORYTELLERS AND CONVENERS OF DISCUSSION

Given their educational missions, museums are well placed to begin conversations with the public about climate change and the importance of environmental sustainability. They are the keepers of stories about the objects in their care and use these to inform audiences about the need to take action. Museums are potential partners and collaborators with companies engaged in Blue Tourism. This session makes a case for museums as storytellers and conveners of discussion around these issues through real world examples, the technologies used now and the potential for future use in outreach and education.

Katherine Burton
Director of Museum Studies Program - Harvard Extension School

Jorge Alberto Jiménez
Advisor - Axion

17:00 - 18:00

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE CRUISE SECTOR IN THE ERA OF SUSTAINABILITY

The cruise sector may be one of those that is most closely experiencing the transformation that sustainability entails in a comprehensive and holistic way. A renewed focus on environmental responsibility and quality of the passenger experience along with efforts to decarbonize operations, use renewable energy sources, electrify cruise fleets and implement advanced recycling programs waste paints a new scenario for this tourist product. This evolution towards sustainability also extends to the uniqueness, exclusivity and quality of tourist experiences, increasingly premium, becoming experiences that combine luxury, comfort and authenticity, while respecting the destinations visited and promoting awareness about the importance of preserve our planet.

Figen Ayan
Chief Port Officer at Galataport İstanbul & President at MedCruise

09:00 - 10:00

MARITIME TOURISM

The European WestMED Initiative (WestMED Initiative) is the European Sea basin initiative that brings together the countries bordering the Western Mediterranean, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Malta, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Mauritania. This initiative seeks to promote cooperation on issues related to the sustainable development of the marine and coastal region of the Western Mediterranean. Within the framework of WestMED, and more specifically from its Spanish National Hub, work is being done to establish a National Maritime Tourism Network, whose main objective is to promote sustainable maritime tourism and the diversification of fishing activity towards other activities that promote the economic development of coastal and marine areas when, for various reasons, they cannot carry out their fishing activity. This network seeks to diversify fishing activities to promote authentic and environmentally friendly experiences. By doing so, it is intended to contribute to local economic development, the conservation of marine ecosystems and the promotion of fishing culture and tradition in the Western Mediterranean region. Hand in hand with this important initiative of the European Commission, we will learn about the importance of maritime tourism and all the development it is having at the European and national level. This session will serve to present 3 examples of Spanish companies and/or initiatives around Maritime Tourism, we will understand what they offer and what opportunities and barriers they have encountered when developing their activities.

Marta Pascual (Moderator)
Spanish National Hub - WestMED Initiative Assistance Mechanism

Pablo Mariño
CEO - Bluscus Marine Tourism

Shonia Cruz
CEO - La Mar Consultoras LMC

Inmaculada Torres
Manager - Local Action Group for Fisheries and Aquaculture of the Region of Murcia - GALPEMUR

10:00 - 11:00

GREEN AND BLUE ENERGY GENERATION

The production of green and blue energy is emerging as a key factor in blue tourism, playing a crucial role in the sustainability and attractiveness of coastal and maritime destinations. The use of renewable and sustainable energy sources not only reduces the environmental impact of tourism activities but completes the backbone and enhances the attractiveness of these destinations. The possibility of experiencing an environment that embraces ecological and sustainable practices not only attracts conscious travellers, but also creates a positive and avant-garde image of the destination as a whole. Green and blue energy do not only transform the way tourism operates, but also establish a higher standard of responsibility and commitment to the preservation of marine ecosystems, creating an enriching and conscious tourism experience for travellers seeking to connect with nature and a sustainable future.

Manuel Larrasa (Moderator)
General Secretary of Energy - Government of Andalusia

Pedro M. Mayorga
CEO - EnerOcean

José María Reyes
Ports Business Development - Endesa

África Castro
Director of Strategy, Communication and Business Development - H2B2

11:30 - 12:30

Sponsor:

ZERO EMISSIONS PORTS.THE SUSTAINABLE TRANSFORMATION OF THE PORTS

The decarbonization of the ports and their electrification as mechanisms of sustainable development, pursuing the zero emissions ports goal, are the two large workhorses that today are most booming. The activity of maritime transport, cruise activity and nautical tourism converts ports and their activity in them as one of the most polluting agents throughout the tourist ecosystem but also as the main protagonist to articulate a change that is possible, which is already taking place and where there are technology that can accelerate these processes of fossil fuel elimination and emission compensation.

Esther Molina (Moderator)
Head - Suncruise Andalucía and President of the Tourism Commission of Cesur

Francisco José González
General Manager - Port Authority of Motril

Carlos de La Rocha
Business Development Manager Energy Services South Zone - Acciona Energía

12:30 - 13:30

THE GOVERNANCE OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS

The transversal nature of tourism requires maximum coordination and consensus in the policies developed in tourist destinations. Destinations are called upon to articulate their value proposition with an accessible infrastructure, an innovative and differentiated offer, a sustainable and responsible approach to tourism, and a use of technology that allows maximum anticipation both of the market and the day-to-day management challenges. Local authorities must create trust and manage public assets with legitimacy, they must involve all strategic stakeholders and meet the expectations of tourists, residents and businesses. How to do this is a complex challenge and we will address it in this presentation.

Ana Moniche (Moderator)
European Projects and International Networks Area Manager - Turismo de Andalucía

Dagmar Lund-Durlacher
Senior Research Associate - Center for Sustainable Tourism at Eberswalde University (Germany) and the Institute for Tourism Sustainability in Vienna

Jeremie Fosse
President - Eco Union

Juan Castro
Manager - Cluster of Innovative Companies for Tourism of the Valencian Community - ADESTIC

14:30 - 15:30

THERE’S NO SUSTAINABILITY WITHOUT LEADERSHIP

There is a strong connection between sustainability, leadership and health. In his presentation, Andreas will share his insights after 25 years of working in sustainable tourism within a large tour operator (TUI), an NGO (Futouris), and his own consultancy (bluecontec). He will explore the success factors and challenges of different sustainable tourism approaches and explain why he believes that we need to start sustainability from the inside out, in other words, our motivation and attitude. Thus, his presentation will dive into the new regenerative leadership approach, focusing on what we can learn from nature for our tourism businesses and gain a more holistic destination management approach.

Andreas Koch
Managing Director - blueContec

15:30 - 16:30

INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES TO DESEASONALIZE THE TOURISM INDUSTRY

The development of innovative strategies to deseasonalize the tourism sector is of vital importance in the search for a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry. Seasonality is often a significant challenge as it can lead to extreme fluctuations in demand, affecting the economic stability of local communities and the quality of jobs in the sector. By promoting the diversification of tourism offers, adaptation to new travel trends and creating incentives to attract visitors throughout the year, these strategies not only help to smooth out seasonal fluctuations, but also contribute to the more equitable distribution of the economic benefits of tourism. Furthermore, by promoting the decongestion of destinations in high season, the traveler experience can be improved and pressure on natural and cultural resources can be reduced, in line with the trends of more sustainable and responsible tourism.

Esteban Herrera (Moderator)
European Projects and International Networks Area - Turismo Andaluz

Paulo César Nauiack
Superintendent - Municipal Tourism Institute Curitiba (Brazil)

Tono Franco
Managing Director - Fundació Visit València

Mamuka Berdzenishvili
Founder and Executive Director Tourism Institute - Georgia National Hub

Víctor Gorga
Country Manager for Tourism Development and Territorial Marketing - Inmark Group

17:00 - 18:00

WestMED INITIATIVE

The European WestMED Initiative (WestMED Initiative) is the European Sea basin initiative that brings together the countries bordering the Western Mediterranean. It is the result of years of dialogue between ten countries in the Western Mediterranean region involved in the ‘5+5 Dialogue’: five EU Member States (France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Malta) and five Southern partner countries (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia). These countries are ready and willing to work together on their shared interests for the region: increasing maritime security, promoting sustainable blue growth and jobs, and preserving ecosystems and biodiversity. The Initiative builds on the European Commission’s long experience in macroregional and sea basin strategies (such as the Atlantic Strategy, the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region and the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region). It also builds on other EU policies linked to the region, such as the priorities of the European Neighborhood Policy Review and the recent Communication on international negotiations in the Western Mediterranean. The session will explain what the WestMED Initiative is, what are the work areas and activities carried out so far and will present what opportunities for collaboration and financing for blue economy exist.

Marta Pascual
Spanish National Hub - WestMED Initiative Assistance Mechanism

09:00 - 10:00

COAST LEGAL FRAMEWORK

The competitiveness of the coastal regulatory framework plays a key role in the development of blue tourism. While it is essential to ensure the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, the challenges and problems associated with the beach management plans, the coastal legislation and the relationship with business operators can be quite complex. Sometimes the implementation of beach management plans and the application of regulations can create conflicts between the environmental protection and business needs, hampering their harmonious coexistence. The rigidity of the Coast Law can hinder sustainable tourism development, while the promotion of business investment can clash with conservation objectives. In this delicate balance, a careful yet strategic collaboration between authorities, businesses and environmental organizations is needed to ensure that regulations promote a responsible and high-quality blue tourism that protects our valuable marine resources and provides economic and development opportunities in harmony with the environment.

Carmen Porras (Moderator)
Journalist - Hosteltur

Arturo Crosby
CEO - Forum Natura International

Javier Navarrete
Head of Service of Public Use and Ecotourism in Natural Areas - General Directorate of Protected Natural Areas of the Department of Sustainability, Environment and Blue Economy - Government of Andalusia

Francisco García
President - Business Association Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park - ASEMPARNA

Pepe Palacios
President - Association for Environmental and Consumer Education - ADEAC

10:00 - 11:00

NAUTICAL SPORTS TOURISM

Roberto Álvarez (Moderator)
CEO - Satour DMC & Tourism Consulting. Regional Manager of Andalusia - Institute for Responsible Tourism Biosphere

Ignacio Javier del Río
Asset Manager - Ocean Capital Partners

Manuel Crespo
Director - Andalusian Institute of Professional Diving

Rafael Merino
General Manager of the Public Ports Agency of Andalusia - APPA

Ignacio Murube
CEO - Over Limit Group

11:30 - 12:30

Sponsor:

EFFECTS OF CLIMATIC CHANGE ON BLUE TOURISM

The effects of climate change on blue tourism are undeniable and require urgent and coordinated action. It is imperative for the business sector to play a leading role in promoting sustainable development objectives by adopting responsible and respectful practices for the environment. Instead of only focusing on prohibitions and sanctions, policies must promote responsibility and innovation, encouraging companies to embrace sustainability and incorporate clean technologies in their operations. Likewise, tourist awareness becomes an essential link in the protection of marine and natural ecosystems. By educating travelers about the fragility of these environments and their importance, a change of mentality is promoted that transcends beyond tourism, generating a solid base for long-term conservation. In this collective effort, the impulse of sustainability from all fronts becomes the key to ensuring a blue and responsible tourism, which not only enjoys the beauty of the oceans, but also contributes to their wellbeing and perpetuity.

Cristina Alonso (Moderator)
Journalist - Actualidad Económica - El Mundo

Antonio García
General Director of the European Green Capital - Valencia City Council

Pedro Torres
Marketing Manager - ESRI

María C. Uyarra
Senior Researcher Marine Resources - AZTI

Pedro Aguilera
Professor of Ecology - CEIMAR

12:30 - 13:30

SPORT AS A DESEASONALIZATION FACTOR

The role of water sports is crucial for the deseasonalization of tourist destinations respecting blue tourism. The diversity of water sports, such as surfing, sailing, kayaking, and diving, not only attracts travelers throughout the year but also contributes to local economic development as it extends the tourist season. In addition, water sports promote a connection with the oceans and raise environmental awareness. People practicing these sports often develop a deep respect for the marine environment and become active marine conservationists. By promoting the sustainability and conservation of aquatic ecosystems, water sports become an ally in the fight against the degradation of the oceans, protecting their health and beauty for present and future generations.

Víctor Romero (Moderator)
Deputy Director of Sponsorship and Sports Promotion - Turismo y Deporte de Andalucía

José Miguel Segura
Head of the Documentation, Training, Research and Qualifications Service - Andalusian Institute of Sport

Eduard Centelles
President of the Spanish Federation of Underwater Activities – FEDAS

Pako Romero
Deputy in Almeria - Andalucía ECO&ACTIVA

14:30 - 15:30

SMART BLUE TOURISM LABORATORIES

The work carried out by SEGITTUR, including the concept of Laboratories within the Smart Destination Platform to establish “test beds” has been a significant step towards the digital transformation of the tourism industry. Tourism Living Labs, already operating in many cities, provide a collaborative space where companies, institutions, and citizens can experiment and co-create innovative solutions for tourism. There are numerous benefits of these laboratories, from technology and application validation to the enhancement of tourist experience and the promotion of destination competitiveness. Projects such as Gaia-X are defining new data spaces in the tourism sector, leading the way towards more efficient and secure management of information. SEGITTUR’s Smart Destination Platform initiative is key for establishing interoperability data standards, enabling the effective integration of systems and the creation of a common data environment for tourism. Furthermore, within the framework of blue tourism, this platform facilitates the implementation of use cases, ranging from sustainable marine resource management to the promotion of authentic and responsible experiences in coastal destinations. Altogether, these initiatives are accelerating digitization and innovation in tourism, leading to a more efficient, sustainable, and traveler-centered industry

John Mora (Moderator)
Vice-president Smart Cities Commission VP - AMETIC

Daniel Caro
Chief Data Officer - Turismo Andaluz

Alejandro Mullor
Worldwide Public Sector Industry Advisor, Tourism Lead - Microsoft

Frédéric Vieuxmaire
Smart City & Tourism Manager - Telefónica Spain

Francisca Rubio
General Manager - Gaia-X Spain

15:30 - 16:30

Sponsor:

WASTE MANAGEMENT. CLEANING BEACHES AND OCEANS

An efficient management of the infrastructures and their adaptation to the high seasons in tourist destinations has become an essential pillar to ensure high-quality and sustainable experiences. In particular, waste management, recycling, and beach cleaning play a key role in distinguishing those destinations committed to environmental protection and responsible tourism. The implementation of strong waste and recycling management systems not only ensures the preservation of the natural and marine environment but also reflects a proactive attitude toward sustainability. Destinations that focus their efforts on keeping beaches clean and managing waste responsibly, create a more attractive environment for visitors and also convey values of respect for nature and the local community. In a market where environmental awareness and tourism ethics are on the rise, sustainable infrastructure management is becoming a valuable distinctive that recognizes those destinations that are truly committed to protecting the resources and the well-being of all.

José Cándido Seba (Moderator)
RECI manager and Civinet Iberia ambassador - Rota City Council and European Commission

Antonio Urdiales
Deputy Councilor of Environmental and Energy Sustainability Area - Almeria City Council

Jesús Gutiérrez
Eastern Andalusia Manager - Ecovidrio

Daniel Chaves
Environment Technician - Salobreña City Council

Jorge Reig
Restaurant Casa Santi - Roquetas de Mar

17:00 - 18:00

Sponsor:

SMART WATER MANAGEMENT AS A NATURAL RESOURCE FOR BLUE TOURISM

Emilio Herrera (Moderator)
VP Smart Cities Comision AMETIC y Head of Public Sector Cibernos

Víctor Serrano
General Director of the Mar Menor - Regional Ministry of Environment, Universities and Research of the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia

Paulo César Nauiack
Superintendent - Municipal Tourism Institute Curitiba (Brazil)

Carmen Farré
Head of Innovation Nature based Solutions & Nutrients full Reuse | Innovation Business - Veolia

09:00 - 10:00

CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION. CHILDREN EAT THE FUTURE

In the current and future context of blue tourism, training is emerging as a crucial factor for leaders in the field. The environmental and sustainability challenges of the marine environment require leaders who are informed, trained and aware of the fragility of marine ecosystems. With the right type of training they will have not only a comprehensive understanding of the impact of human activities on the oceans, but also they will develop innovative strategies to promote responsible blue tourism, a beneficial activity for both local communities and the marine ecosystem as a whole. In this sense, investing in the training of blue tourism leaders guarantees a more conscious, sustainable and ethical approach, ensuring the preservation of natural resources for present and future generations. All this and more will be dealt with in this panel discussion.

Xanty Elías
Michelin Green Star Chef

10:00 - 11:00

SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO THE BLUE ECONOMY IN THE EU

Europe has given significant attention to the blue economy, recognizing it as a key sector for sustainable development and innovation. Within this approach, the vertical blue tourism has emerged as an intelligent specialization (S3) that combines the richness of marine resources with technological innovation and sustainability. In line with this vision, various funds and programs have been promoted to promote innovation in blue tourism. Initiatives such as Horizon Europe, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, and specific regional and national programs, seek to support projects that promote excellence in coastal and marine tourism. These funds not only support the creation and development of innovative tourist initiatives, but also promote research and collaboration in the search for sustainable solutions for the challenges facing this sector. In short, investment in the blue economy, and in particular in blue tourism, reflects Europe’s commitment to employment creation, economic prosperity and protection of marine ecosystems through innovation and sustainable development.

Manuel Pleguezuelo
Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries - European Commision

11:30 - 12:30

GROWTH SOUL COMPANIES

The greatest challenges humankind currently faces are the sustainability and regeneration of our planet, social inequality and the impact of the technological revolution at all levels. Businesses, from the smallest company to the largest multinationals, can and should contribute to meeting these challenges. Their role is essential because they have the strength, creativity and flexibility that other organizations lack. Ángel Bonet proposes that companies, guided by a new type of leadership, review their foundations and transform themselves to play the role that society needs worldwide. They will become Growth Soul Companies, companies that grow with a soul, fully aware of the impact of their actions on the planet and on society.

Ángel Bonet
President - ImpactCo

12:30 - 13:30

Sponsor:

SUSTAINABLE MARINAS FOR PRESENT AND FUTURE GENERATIONS

ESG is one of the main pillars of D-Marin Business and no longer a mere concept; it is an imperative and a responsibility to ensure a sustainable world, both environmentally and ethically, for company teams, suppliers, and the communities in which business operates. D-Marin meets company goals taking advantage of scale and technology using in-house digital innovations unique in the nautical industry. All these achievements and large investments in green energies ranked the company on top 25% worldwide of sustainable corporations in the global leisure industry audited by EcoVadis. D-Marin is a leading operator of premium yacht marinas with 23 locations across in Greece, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Montenegro, Croatia, Italy, Spain and Malta. D-Marin offers comprehensive marina management, marina development and has a single focus of enriching the yachting experience of customers.

Rafael Aznar
Country Manager - D-Marin Spain

Matthias Gehring
Chief Digital Officer - D-Marin

Areti Priovolou
HSE Officer - D-Marin

13:30 - 14:00

CLOSING OF THE CONGRESS

Institutional Closing by organizations and authorities that have supported and promoted the Congress.

María Sacramento Sánchez
Deputy Mayor and Councilor for Tourism, Public Works, Maintenance, Accessibility and Blue Economy - Almeria City Council

Fernando Giménez
2nd Vice-president - Deputy Delegate of the Presidency, Demographic Challenge, Historical Heritage and Tourism Area

Ramón Fernández-Pacheco
Regional Minister of Sustainability, Enviroment and Blue Economy - Government of Andalusia

09:00 - 10:00

SMART AND BLUE ISLANDS

Islands are blue destinations due to their geographical nature. We will talk about the Spanish Smart Islands programme and the Red.es projects to see how technologies have been applied and how they have been used in natural disasters.

Adolfo Borrero (Moderator)
Senior Advisor - Sun&Blue

Robert Tabone
Ministry for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government - Government of Malta

Gustavo Ventura
Secretary of Tourism - Municipality of Ushuaia (Argentina)

Carlos D. Gutiérrez
Fuerteventura Isla Inteligente Project Coordinator - Fuerteventura Island Council

Juanma Revuelta
CEO Finnova Futurism. Startup Europe Accelerator Director. Senior Advisor Next Generation EU Economic Diplomacy

Paola Plasencia
Chief Executive Officer - HECANSA

10:00 - 11:00

COASTAL HERITAGE AS A BLUE TOURISM ENGINE

The coastal heritage stands as a key driver in the impulse of blue tourism, since its natural and cultural wealth attracts travelers in search of authentic experiences and in harmony with the marine environment. Although in the past there was a debate on the restrictive protection of these resources, the general opinion of the scientific community has positively valued its sustainable integration into tourist activity. The scientific community advocates a balanced approach that considers both the conservation of ecosystems and the generation of economic interests through tourism. This perspective ensures long-term protection by encouraging investment in responsible practices, promoting environmental education, and promoting the active participation of local communities in coastal heritage management. The optimization of these resources, instead of their prohibition, emerges as a more effective path to safeguard their integrity and provide tourists with valuable and respectful experiences while stimulating the sustainable economic development of coastal regions. In this debate table we will discuss this perspective and the wealth of coastal heritage we have along the entire Mediterranean coast with leading figures in the fields of science and maritime conservation.

Joaquín Rodríguez (Moderator)
Geology Professor - Huelva University

Milagros Alzaga
Head - Center for Underwater Archaeology - IAPH

Clive Finlayson
Director - Gibraltar Museum

José María Calaforra
Geology Professor - Almeria University

11:30 - 12:30

INTERIOR BLUE TOURISM. UNITED BY THE WATER: RIVERS AND LAKES AS ASSETS

Blue tourism goes far beyond the seas and oceans reaching inland destinations through rivers, lakes and reservoirs, which are also natural resources with high added value. In an increasingly urbanized world, the rise of water-based resorts, spas and even water parks with premium facilities have made the use of water as a source of wealth in tourism. We will try to deepen their peculiarities and how they can live together.

Francisco Morcillo (Moderator)
CEO - MB3 Gestión

Rafael Carmona
President - Port Authority of Seville

Carolina Casado
Tourism Director - Badajoz Provincial Council

Enrique Acosta
CEO - Ea Branding

12:30 - 13:30

NEW TECHNOLOGIES APPLIED TO BLUE TOURISM

The new technologies applied to blue tourism play a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of coastal and marine tourism. Applications providing tourist and cultural information not only enhance the traveler's experience but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of marine heritage. Immersive technology, on the other hand, transports tourists to a new dimension, enabling them to virtually dive into coastal destinations and explore their rich biodiversity. Furthermore, artificial intelligence, used for predicting tourist flows and intelligently managing reservations, not only optimizes trip planning but also helps mitigate environmental impacts by efficiently distributing visitor influx. In summary, these innovations not only improve the tourist experience but also contribute to the sustainability and conservation of coastal tourist destinations, ensuring a harmonious balance between tourism growth and the preservation of the marine environment.

José Luis Córdoba (Moderator)
Director - AndaluciaLab

Enrique Lara
CEO - OK Located

Francesco Pititto
CEO - Envjoy Nature

Manuel Lara
Co-Founder - MilenIA

Javier Romera
Head of technological and educational projects - Valores Valientes Association

13:30 - 14:00

LIVE BROADCAST OF THE CONTENT OF ROOM 1

Room 1 overflow. In the adjacent rooms the content will be a live broadcasting of Room 1.

09:00 - 10:00

DATA SCIENCE PLATFORM FOR TOURISM SUSTAINABILITY

Antonio Guevara
Dean of the Faculty of Tourism - University of Malaga

Ramón Ferri
Head of the Innovation and Digital Agenda Area - Valencia City Council

10:00 - 11:00

IMPACT OF TOURISM ON LOCAL COMMUNITIES

The impact of tourism on residents and their environment is a key factor to take into account in the development of tourist destinations and deployment of the industry’s business fabric. Unsustainable tourism, characterized by overcrowding, saturation of infrastructure and deterioration in the quality of life of residents, has been a concern in many tourist areas and is a very popular topic today. However, sustainable, seasonally adjusted, and respectful blue tourism represents a paradigm shift that can have a very positive impact on local communities and the well-being of their residents. By promoting a more balanced and conscious approach to tourism, we can create sustainable economic opportunities, preserve cultural authenticity and improve the quality of life of those living in blue destinations. Additionally, by deseasonalizing tourism, the visitor flow can be more evenly distributed throughout the year, reducing pressure on infrastructure and the environment, while encouraging a harmonious relationship between the local community and tourists. This transformation towards a more responsible tourism not only benefits visitors but also protects and enriches the lives of those who call these beautiful coastal regions their home.

Mariano Torres (Moderator)
CEO - Sien Consulting

José Antonio González
Head of Promotion of the Provincial Tourism Service - Almeria Provincial Council

José Javier Ruiz
Major - City of Rota

Pedro Barrionuevo
Director of Tourism and Business Development - Turismo Costa del Sol

María del Mar López
Tourism and Beaches Area - San Pedro del Pinatar. Murcia

11:30 - 12:30

Sponsor:

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES AND POLICIES FOR BLUE DESTINATIONS

Emilio Herrera (Moderator)
VP Smart Cities Comision AMETIC y Head of Public Sector Cibernos

José Javier Ruiz
Major - City of Rota

Karina Fortete
Project Coordinator - Montevideo Smart Destination (Uruguay)

Antonio García
General Director of the European Green Capital - Valencia City Council

12:30 - 14:30

LIVE BROADCAST OF THE CONTENT OF ROOM 1

The overflow from Room 1 can proceed to the adjacent rooms to watch the broadcast of the event.