Tourism accounts for about 15 percent of the gross domestic product in the Valencia region, underscoring its role as a major economic driver for Alicante. The sector’s growth is deeply linked to the region’s natural resources and landscapes, with every stage of a tourism product—from accommodation to transport—reflecting environmental considerations. This means the environment is not just scenery but a core economic asset that shapes visitor experiences and local livelihoods alike.
Leaders discussing the future of tourism, sustainability, and municipal governance highlighted the central role of local councils in managing environmental impacts with responsibility and efficiency. In a roundtable on “Tourist municipalities and sustainability”, Juan José Berenguer, mayor of El Campello, and Vicente Arques, mayor of L’Alfàs del Pi, stressed that sustainable practices should guide decision making at the municipal level to balance economic benefits with environmental stewardship. (Attribution: Local Government Roundtable)
Arques remarked that sustainability is a fundamental consideration in L’Alfàs del Pi, noting its cross-cutting nature across water management, waste collection, and parking solutions. He added that tourism today can leverage a wide range of assets, remarking that almost anything could be framed as an opportunity for tourism with the right management. (Attribution: Municipal Leadership)
Arques also described how traditions, gastronomy, culture, beaches, and heritage collectively form a robust tourism proposition. He emphasized that the industry’s future lies in sustainability, with a growing trend toward active aging that includes a suite of healthy services, outdoor activities, and cultural offerings that resonate with visitors seeking a high quality of life. (Attribution: Regional Tourism Council)
The Campello mayor echoed the view that tourism municipalities should maintain their dedication to sustainability, arguing that no responsible leader would pursue projects that harm beaches, landscapes, or cultural heritage. He urged a long-term perspective, noting that tourism is an enduring activity that must adapt to evolving needs while protecting ecosystems and local communities for future generations. (Attribution: Local Government Statement)
The two leaders agreed that sustainable tourism must balance the interests of visitors with those of neighboring residents and avoid conflicts. Seasonal patterns were identified as a lever to prevent overconcentration, offering flexible arrival schedules and a wider array of visitor experiences throughout the year. (Attribution: Municipal Dialogue)
Arques noted a growing interest from European residents who choose to spend longer periods in Campello, driven in part by climate advantages that help desynchronize peak seasons. He cautioned, however, to monitor growth carefully given limited hotel capacity and rising tourist apartment options, ensuring that neighborhood dynamics remain positive. (Attribution: Local Government)
L’Alfàs del Pi also hosts a sizable year-round expatriate community and has evolved beyond its traditional beach appeal to include cultural programming, industry, environmental initiatives, and gastronomy to meet evolving demand. The aim is to view tourism holistically, delivering a diverse set of experiences that appeal to residents and visitors alike. (Attribution: Municipal Perspectives)
Beyond seasonal dynamics, the region is moving toward active aging by offering pathways for sport, museum visits, and healthy spaces that empower both locals and guests to stay engaged. Collaborative service and experience development among municipalities is essential, with leaders noting that collaboration yields greater impact than isolated efforts. (Attribution: Intermunicipal Collaboration)