The European Commission has just made an exciting announcement, and it's fantastic news for Dublin! The Irish capital city has once again secured a coveted spot on the shortlist for the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism award. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Dublin's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the tourism sector. Notably, Cork, another Irish city, has also earned its place on this esteemed list.
Dublin and Cork's inclusion on this shortlist is a result of their remarkable sustainability efforts and their dedication to enriching their cultural landscapes. They proudly share this honour with four other European cities: Bremerhaven in Germany, Genoa in Italy, Helsingborg in Sweden, and San Sebastián in Spain.
Cork deserves special recognition for its unwavering commitment to smart urban development and sustainability. Through a multitude of accolades and initiatives, Cork showcases how a city can seamlessly integrate responsible practices into its tourism model and daily life.
- Dublin, situated on the vibrant east coast of Ireland, stands as Europe's fifth-largest transportation hub, with a population exceeding 1.5 million. In 2019, the European Commission acknowledged the pivotal role tourism played in Dublin's economy, supporting 68,000 jobs and attracting 8.6 million visitors who contributed a substantial €2.6 billion to the city's tourism revenue. Dublin has also implemented a forward-thinking tourism program that leverages community involvement, technology, and innovation to reshape the conventional tourist experience.
- Bremerhaven, Germany, another city on the shortlist, boasts a unique maritime identity along the North Sea coast and a rich history as a vital trading port. The city is committed to preserving its coastal landscapes and protecting ecologically sensitive areas, aligning its tourism initiatives with sustainability goals.
- Genoa, the capital of Italy's Liguria region, is another proud contender for the 2024 competition. It enjoys a stellar reputation for its splendid palaces and architectural treasures. Although Genoa once thrived as an industrial and commercial centre, it has embarked on a comprehensive urban renewal journey to revitalize its artistic and cultural heritage.
- Helsingborg, one of Sweden's oldest cities, shares close cultural ties with Helsingør, Denmark, just a short 20-minute ferry ride away across the Øresund. In 2012, Helsingborg set an ambitious goal for 2035 to transform into a creative, vibrant, united, globally-connected, and well-balanced hub for residents and businesses alike.
- Lastly, the Spanish city of San Sebastián shines as a city that beautifully blends rich cultural heritage, renowned gastronomy, and a warm and inviting lifestyle. The Commission highlights San Sebastián's ability to balance its unique and ancient history, characterized by the enigmatic Basque language, with forward-thinking and sustainable initiatives that foster an inclusive and thriving community.
The competition for the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism promises to be fierce, with these six remarkable cities leading the way in sustainable and innovative tourism practices. Dublin, Cork, Bremerhaven, Genoa, Helsingborg, and San Sebastián are setting inspiring examples for cities around the world, showing that responsible tourism can be a catalyst for positive change and growth. We eagerly await the announcement of the winner and celebrate the remarkable achievements of these European destinations.