Long focused on reducing impacts, sustainable tourism is evolving towards a more ambitious approach: regenerative tourism. This trend, increasingly present in sectoral analyzes and international publications, proposes a clear paradigm shift: no longer just preserve, but actively improve local ecosystems and communities.
Recent analyses, notably in Forbes, confirm a shift: regenerative tourism is gradually emerging as the next stage of tourism development. Hector De Castron of Regenera Luxury – the world’s first and leading standard in regenerative luxury – speaks to a paradigm shift — from “less impact†to “actively contributeâ€.
From sustainable to regenerative: a change of posture
Sustainable tourism aims to limit negative impacts: reduction of the carbon footprint, flow management, protection of natural environments.
Regenerative tourism goes further. He seeks to:
- restore degraded ecosystems
- strengthen biodiversity
- generate positive impacts for local communities
In other words, it is no longer just a question of “doing less harm”, but of leave the premises in a better condition than before the visit. Tourism is becoming a lever of contribution rather than a simple economic activity.
For tourism stakeholders
Adopting a regenerative approach does not mean transforming everything, but gradually integrating new principles into the development of the offer.
Three levers emerge:
1. Integrate dining into the experience
Some initiatives allow visitors to contribute directly:
- participation in reforestation projects
- involvement in habitat protection
- active awareness programs
- Cleaning chore
The tourist experience thus becomes participatory and contributory.
2. Strengthen ties with local communities
Regenerative tourism promotes know-how, local actors and territorial dynamics.
This translates to:
- greater integration of local businesses
- better distributed economic benefits
- co-construction of projects with communities
3. Rethink performance indicators
Beyond ridership and revenue, new indicators are emerging:
- état des écosystèmes
- qualité de l’expérience
- social and territorial impacts
Success is now also measured in terms of sustainable benefits for the territory.
With its vast natural spaces, its outdoor networks and its regions seeking economic diversification, Quebec is particularly well positioned to integrate these approaches.
Crédit photo :  https://sustainabletourismandresponsibletravel.com/Â
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