What we achieve

In this section you can read about the main project results, as they are accomplished.

You will also download the project key deliverables soon

Building Sustainable Tourism Rooted in Agrobiodiversity and Community

INSPIRE is transforming Mediterranean tourism through a community-led model that protects nature, supports local economies, and celebrates cultural identity.

Tackling the Challenges

Mass tourism and intensive agriculture are placing growing pressure on Mediterranean ecosystems and communities. Rural depopulation, loss of agrobiodiversity, and gentrification threaten not only the environment but also the cultural and economic resilience of the region. Tourism often disconnects from local food systems, traditions, and people.

Turning Resources into Opportunities

Despite these challenges, the Mediterranean holds immense value:

• A rich agrobiodiversity heritage with unique plant and animal species.
• Successful food valorization models (e.g., Slow Food Travel).
• Strong potential for participatory approaches, digital innovation, and transnational cooperation.

Our Strategy for Change

INSPIRE develops and tests a new model for sustainable, inclusive, and community-based tourism.
Here’s how we do it:

• Co-creation of sustainable destinations grounded in local agrobiodiversity.
• Living Labs in five pilot areas to engage stakeholders in planning, storytelling, and management.
• Digital tools (e-labs, crowdmapping) to map biodiversity and ensure visibility, scalability, and participation.
• Transnational exchange of practices to build a shared Mediterranean approach to sustainable tourism.

Our Impact

INSPIRE is building a future where:

• Tourism supports ecological balance and cultural identity, rather than undermining them.
• Communities become ambassadors of their landscape, food, and traditions.
• New economic opportunities arise in rural areas through nature- and culture-based tourism.
• Agrobiodiversity and local knowledge are preserved and celebrated, ensuring intergenerational transmission.

Tourism should not just be sustainable—it should be regenerative, inclusive, and rooted in place.