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In 2013, the Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park became one of Europe's Europarcs and as such, part of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism programme. This, in turn, raised the international importance for nature tourism in the region.
- Pallas-Yllastunturi became a EUROPARC park in 2013
- Part of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism programme
- Charter Network covers c. 119 protected areas across thirteen countries
- First seven protected areas signed the Charter in 2001
- Charter documents available in English, Italian, Spanish, French and German
Enontekio's National Park
The charter park development project brings together nature tourism and entrepreneurs in the development of sustainable nature tourism in protected areas. The project has been in existence for 15 years.
The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism
The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism is a practical management tool that helps protected areas continuously improve the sustainable development and management of tourism, balancing the needs of the environment, the local population and local tourism businesses. Rather than a typical quality or eco-label, it is a process-oriented methodology for all kinds of protected areas, focused on initiating and assisting sustainable tourism planning. It provides a 'strategy development kit' of principles, methodology and check-lists for areas to work with.
The European Charter Network: Working in partnership
Since the first seven protected areas signed the Charter in 2001, the Network has grown significantly. It now includes c. 119 protected areas across thirteen European countries, plus a growing number of local tourism businesses, local and regional authorities, NGOs and others as Charter partners. The Charter documents are available in English, Italian, Spanish, French and German, with translation supported by TUI — Touristik Union International. Sharing experience and knowledge through networking is a main aim, via regular network meetings, exchanges and study visits.
Taking the European Charter forward
Beyond the EUROPARC Federation, many people and several projects keep the Charter current. EUROPARC Consulting handles its administration; the EUROPARC Sustainable Tourism working group provides expertise on projects and activities; the Evaluation Committee and verifiers award Charter areas; and EUROPARC Sections take the Charter forward in their countries or regions. In 2011-12 EUROPARC coordinated three Charter projects: STEPPA, Parks & Benefits and Sustainable Tourism Destinations.
