Sustainable Tourism Law

656 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM LAW In what concerns the first topic, it was considered that tourism can have a relevant contribution for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage 82 , calling on the need for collaborative efforts and the development of partnerships to prevent pressures and improve the coordination amongst public entities at the European, national and local levels, as well as “a need for private sector enterprises to engage fully in the conservation of nature and culture”. A better clarification was also highlighted regarding the frameworks and policy instruments to which businesses can respond and to the full involvement of local populations in strategies and actions related to cultural and environmental patrimony, and in the promotion of sustainable tourism. The outcome of the forum provided three essential conditions to deliver more sustainable tourism in protected areas : 1. When necessary, a more rigorous legal protection and application of legislation; 2. High quality management plans implemented by a staff with a multiplicity of skills; 3. Sufficiency of financial resources; Warnings have been made against the danger of European Union’s rules and regulations inhibiting the creativity of the sector’s corporations 83 , as well as of the communities and taking into consideration how the circumstance of the winners of European Destinations for Excellence awards make up good examples of the diversification of the touristic products, as guided by sustainability principles. Taking into consideration the second topic, in the management of resources and waste , we have observed that a lot can still be done in this domain 84 , alerting, however, that it can result in higher prices for the consumer. The possibility of needing legislation in fields that are often external to tourism is accepted, as is the case of the EU Water Framework Directive and appropriate economic instruments, such as tax incentives, may be applicable. On the other hand, awareness by consumers – the tourists – can be achieved through reliable mechanisms such as eco-labels . This ideal is emerging associated 82 A “process that requires responsibility, integrity, cooperation and commitment by all concerned”. 83 A need to avoid standardisation. 84 “Although achieving total sustainability in terms of resource use and pollution may be an illusion, much can and should be done”.