Since 2019, Club Nàutic Estartit has been committed to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (CETS), a commitment we renewed in 2022 with the intention of continuing to promote tourism and activities that contribute positively to both the conservation of the environment and the well-being of local communities.
The CETS provides us with a clear framework for sustainable tourism management, helping us to maintain a balance between preserving the natural and cultural values of the Montgrí, Medes Islands, and Baix Ter Natural Park, and offering quality tourist experiences to our visitors.
What is the CETS?
The CETS in Protected Natural Areas is an initiative driven by the EUROPARC Federation. Its main objective is to promote a model of tourism that is respectful of the environment, fosters economic and social sustainability, and offers valuable and educational tourist experiences. The CETS is based on a clear methodology that involves different key stakeholders in the conservation and management of sustainable tourism through three phases:
- Phase I: Sustainable destinations
This first phase focuses on the accreditation of the authorities responsible for protected natural areas, ensuring the development of a common sustainable tourism strategy that preserves the natural and cultural values of the territory.
- Phase II: Adhered businesses
In this phase, local tourism businesses commit to adopting sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact and contribute to the local economy, working closely with park authorities.
- Phase III: Sustainable travel agencies
This final phase involves travel agencies and tour operators that promote protected areas as sustainable destinations, ensuring that visitors enjoy experiences that are respectful of the environment.
The benefits of joining the CETS are numerous. Firstly, it ensures that tourism develops in a way that preserves biodiversity and local culture. Additionally, it promotes sustainable economic development, strengthening the local economy and offering tourists a more authentic and conscious experience. Finally, the CETS provides visibility and recognition at the European level, positioning protected areas and affiliated businesses as models of sustainability.
Our role in the conservation and promotion of sustainable tourism
Club Nàutic Estartit has implemented specific measures as part of our commitment to the CETS:
Offering guided and sustainable activities: We provide a wide range of tourist activities within the protected natural area, always with a sustainable focus. These activities are conducted with appropriate ratios to avoid overcrowding and ensure a quality experience for visitors. Additionally, these activities are guided by accredited professionals who ensure the safety and quality of the experience, while also educating participants about the importance of natural conservation. For example, we organize kayak routes and sailing trips within the natural park using a boat equipped with an electric motor, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly experience.
Distribution of informative and educational material: With the aim of raising visitors’ awareness of the park’s natural wealth and the importance of its preservation, we publish articles related to environmental best practices and awareness. We also distribute detailed informational material about the Montgrí, Medes Islands, and Baix Ter Natural Park. This material includes flyers and informational panels that describe the best practices visitors should follow within the port and during navigation throughout their stay. Additionally, it is complemented by specific materials about the Medes Islands, ensuring that visitors are well-informed about the regulations and recommended practices within the park.
Implementation of Quality and Environmental Certifications: Since 2004, we have maintained the EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) registration, a European-recognized environmental management system that helps organizations assess, manage, and improve their environmental performance. In addition, we have also obtained ISO 14001 certification, an international standard for environmental management systems. These certifications reflect our commitment to the continuous improvement of environmental practices, including the monitoring and reduction of water, electricity, and fuel consumption. It is also worth highlighting the Blue Flag award that we receive year after year, a mark of environmental quality for beaches and marinas.
Continuous improvement and innovation in sustainability: We strive to continuously innovate and improve. For this reason, we have planned the installation of photovoltaic panels for self-consumption at our facilities, with the goal of reducing CO2 emissions associated with our operations. We have also installed charging points for electric vehicles, thereby contributing to the reduction of indirect emissions from our users. These initiatives are part of a broader plan to reduce the overall environmental impact of the club and to promote a culture of sustainability among our members and visitors.
Being part of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. Through our work at the Montgrí, Medes Islands, and Baix Ter Natural Park, we strive to offer activities that provide unforgettable experiences for visitors, while also being designed to educate and raise awareness about the importance of natural conservation.
We are proud to be part of this initiative and to continue working towards a future where tourism and nature can coexist in a harmonious and beneficial way for everyone!