Has implementing an ecolabel increased sustainable tourism in Barcelona?

Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 Cuadernos de Turismo, nº 40, (2017); pp. 93-134 Universidad de Murcia ISSN: 1139-7861 eISSN: 1989-4635 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6018/turismo.40.309631 HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? Rocío Arenado Rodríguez Ana García López José L. Jiménez Caballero Universidad de Sevilla ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to find out if by implementing an ecolabel in destinations, applying an SDM model, tourism sustainability increases. In order to this, three measures have been put into practice in Barcelona: (1) a focus group interview to key stakeholders (DMOs) see their implication with the certification project; (2) the implementations of two different actions relevant for the study: (a) to confront and pair up the certification body´s set of criteria with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) ones, (b) check if the certification adapts to Font´s study about ecolabels; and finally, (3) a discussion to find out if the media and local citizens felt in a city touristic ally sustainable. The findings show that Barcelona tourism board and other stakeholders were concerned about tourism sustainability. Besides, ecolabel can be believed to be trustworthy and reliable by adapting it to Font´s study (2001) and by confronting it with GSTC destination criteria. However, local population seems not to be satisfied at all with how the city is getting so many tourism. They seems not to understand labels, but they understand the negative impacts from tourism in their way of life. The limitation to this study is that just the Barcelona case is analyzed. The contribution is that it is actually putting into practice well known concepts that have usually been studied in theoretical ways. Keywords: sustainable tourism, sustainable indicators, Barcelona, ecolabel, strategic plan, local population, tourism stakeholders. Recibido: 30 de marzo de 2017 Devuelto para su revisión: 1 de junio de 2017 Aceptado: 2 de septiembre de 2017 Facultad de Turismo y Finanzas. Universidad de Sevilla. Avda. San Francisco Javier, s/n. 41018 SEVILLA (España). E-mail: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO94 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 ¿Puede una eco etiqueta incrementar la sostenibilidad turística en Barcelona? RESUMEN El objetivo principal de este estudio es detectar si la implementación de una eco etiqueta en destinos turísticos con un modelo SDM, incrementa su sostenibilidad. Para dicha investigación, se han puesto en práctica tres medidas en Barcelona: (1) entrevistas con agentes locales clave (DMOs), para comprobar su aceptación e implicación en el proyecto de certificación; (2) la puesta en práctica de dos acciones relevantes para el estudio: (a) contrastar los criterios de la eco etiqueta objeto de estudio con los criterios del GSTC (2016), (b) comprobar si la eco etiqueta se adecua al estudio de Font (2001) sobre las mismas. Por último, como tercera medida (3), se plantea una discusión para conocer si los medios de comunicación y la población local perciben la ciudad como turísticamente sostenible. Los resultados establecen que tanto Barcelona Tourism Board como los agentes claves muestran preocupación, interés y compromiso frente a la sostenibilidad turística. Y respecto a la ecoetiqueta, puede comprobarse que es fiable, pues se adapta a las exigencias tanto del modelo de Font (2001) como a los criterios del GSTC. Sin embargo, la población local muestra una clara insatisfacción y malestar con el volumen de turistas que visita a la ciudad. Esta parece no entender de etiquetas, pero sí de impactos negativos del turismo en sus vidas. La principal limitación del estudio es que solo ha sido analizado el caso de Barcelona. Mientras que su contribución más interesante es la puesta en práctica de conceptos ampliamente aceptados, pero que por lo general se estudian más de forma teórica que sobre los destinos turísticos. Palabras clave: turismo sostenible, Barcelona, eco etiqueta, plan estratégico, población local, agentes turísticos. 1. INTRODUCTION In the existing literature the same phenomenon is often named in different ways, trying to mean the same: sustainable tourism, sustainable development through tourism, principles of sustainable development in tourism, tourism development in terms of sustainable tourism, etc. Scholars, governments, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), scientists, researchers and participants in tourism are becoming increasingly concerned with this topic, due to the fact that sustainable tourism is regarded as the most desirable form of tourism development in particular areas, especially those which preserve the most natural and cultural authentic values (Butowski, 2010). It can certainly be seen that there has been a constant increase of environmental concern among the general public, making the environment one of the key tools to gain competitive advantage (Font, 2001). Moreover, “the tourism industry can play a key role in providing environmental information and raising awareness among tourists of the environmental consequences of their actions” (Malviya, 2005: 94). Traditionally, the aim of most destination management models was focused on how tourism development would provide opportunities for the effective management of environmentally sensitive areas. However, throughout the years, the focus has shifted towards the part that tourism can play in reducing environmental pollution and resource consump- HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 95 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 tion (UNEP, 2002). This has led many DMOs (Destination Management Organizations) to apply SDM (Sustainable Destination Management) models for sustainability assessment by using different plans, policy instruments and other tools, in order to stimulate awareness and make an impact on reduction (Schianetz et al., 2007). Planning the tourism industry is crucial for a destination, especially because its effects are substantial and potentially long-standing (Michael, 1999). If a destination chooses to achieve sustainable tourism development, the actions by its stakeholders must be consistent, by implementing community-based approach to tourism (which involves the locals in decision-making) (Hall, 2005). Moreover, the importance of co-ordination (e.g. networks and partnerships) increases the competitiveness and sustainability of touristic destinations (Antón et al, 2011; Bramwell & Lane, 2000; Lazzeretti & Petrillo, 2006; Pavlovich, K. 2003; Saxena, 2005). Therefore, having a DMO applying a destination management model (with a clear strategy) is a must for any destination. According to the different tools used in SDM models, ecolabels are the ones with the broadest scope and one of the most promising voluntary initiatives that lead to improvement of the destinations´ environmental and sustainable performance (Ayuso, 2007; UNEP, 1998). However, it has to be highlighted that ecolabels are controversial topics in tourism because some authors claim that they perform more as a market mechanism to influence consumers´choice than as sustainability tools. Naturefriends International (2012), however, asserts that “The greater extent to which a label takes into account the ecological, social and cultural concerns of the host population, the more it can contribute to sustainable development”. The foreword of these two opposite ideas aim to set the introduction of this study, which is to discover if by implementing an ecolabel in destinations applying an SDM model, sustainability increases. Barcelona was the first city in the world to obtain a destination certification, so the analysis of this topic is important due to the fact that nowadays it is accepted that the desirable state of tourism is the sustainable one. Do certifications really help towards being more sustainable? Is Barcelona more sustainable now, after getting the certification? In order to answer these questions, the paper includes some literature review about ecolabels, an in-depth explanation about Barcelona and the ecolabel that has been implemented, as well as an extensive methodology that challenges this ecolabel. The research finishes with a conclusion summing up the study and presenting the findings. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW There has been many studies concerning sustainable tourism, especially in the 90s (Archer, 1996; Bramwell & Lane, 1993; Green, 1995; Liu & Jones, 1996; McIntyre et al, 1995; Wahab & Pigram, 1998). According to Buckley (2012), there has been over 5000 published papers in this field of study. This topic has traditionally arose interest (Ruhanen et al, 2015), as well as critics (Liu, 2003). Afterwards, studies including ways to measure this sustainability through tools (indicators, model, index) became also popular (Castellani & Salas, 2010; Cernat & Gourdon, 2012; Fernández & Rivero, 2009; Ko, 2005; Miller, 2001; Pulido & Sánchez, 2009; Schianetz & Kavanagh, 2008; Singh et al, ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO96 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 2009). Organizations as GSTC and the European Tourism Indicators System (ETIS) also contributed to the development of this field of study (Fernández et al, 2017). In the context of sustainable tourism development, Ecolabels were also developed mainly in the 90s and may be seen as both an environmental management and a marketing tool as they help to reduce negative impacts and increase competitive advantage (Buckley, 2001, 2002; Fairweather, Maslin, & Simmons, 2005; Font, 2002; Hamele, 2001, Honey & Stewart, 2002). The large number and diversity of ecolabels makes it difficult to create a single definition for all of them (Kozak & Nield, 2004); nevertheless, UNEP (United Nations Environmental Program) suggested the following ‘a seal or label which assists the market to identify products or services as being less harmful to the environment than similar products or services with the same function’ (UNEP, 1998:47). Buckley (2002) also indicates that a label is a basic description of something, associated with it in some way so that a potential purchaser can obtain information from it rather than the object itself. In its broadest sense, an ecolabel is simply one whose content refers mainly to the environment. Bearing these tasks in mind, it is understood that when implementing an ecolabel, not just the consumer’s choice is taken into account, but, its sustainable aspect. Ecolabels must be considered inputs in the sense of environmental management effort (measures taken) and output in the sense of impact produced (benefits for the environment) (Buckley, 2002). They usually encourage businesses to raise their standards of environmental performance and allow destinations to demonstrate their environmental credentials to customers (WTO, 2007). However, even though ecolabels in the tourism services has been extensively studied, there is no agreement whether or not eco certification increases tourist demand for a product among the general tourist population. 2.1. Technical Features of ecolabels There is a considerable misunderstanding between the terms ecolabel and certification, because they usually have the same structure and both recognize the achievement of the criteria with a label or logo. Likewise, it is more and more common for both to include the three sustainable pillars (environmental, economic and socio-cultural) in their criteria. However, there are differences among them: the origins of certifications are in the manufacturing industry, and later in time, ecolabels were introduced as a formalized method, more focused on environmental efficiency. In 1985 the first milestones for environmental certification were settled (Font, 2002), and somehow, a misunderstanding arose: confusion between certification as a process and certification as an end. As previously stated, a certification company is the one that controls and ensures the fulfilment of the standards (certified by…) whereas an ecolabel refers to the compromise of guarantee. Nonetheless, this differentiation is not always very clear, because nowadays there are not many existing ecolabels without the backup of a certification body; therefore, it is used indistinctly. For the purpose of this paper, and better readability, the terms certification and ecolabels will be used interchangeably (especially because the ecolabels being studied - Biosphere World Class Destination - and their certification scheme - STR (Responsible Tourism System) - are part of the same awarding body – ITR (Responsible Tourism Institute). HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 97 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 Ecolabels can be applied to product, services and destinations; yet, this study will always refer to the destination ones, as is the case of this study. Ecolabels can still be very different in terms of scope, popularity, quality, credibility, etc. Yet, the aim of ecolabels is usually the same, which is to improve the environmental performance. In figure 1, Font (2001) shows the different players that need to be involved in an ecolabel in order to be trustful. Figure 1 THE PLAYERS IN TOURISM ECOLABELS Source: Font (2001). In this chart, the different concepts mean the following: 1. Standards: A document approved by a recognised body that provides for common and repeated use of a prescribed set of rules, conditions or requirements. 2. Assessment: Process of examining, measuring, testing or otherwise determining conformance with requirements specified in an applicable standard. 3. Certification: The procedure by which a third party (i.e. the awarding body) gives written assurance to the consumer (and the industry in general) that a product, process, service, or management system conforms to specified requirements (Toth, 2000). 4  ecolabels were introduced as a formalized method, more focused on environmental efficiency. In 1985 the first milestones for environmental certification were settled (Font, 2002), and somehow, a misunderstanding arose: confusion between certification as a process and certification as an end. As previously stated, a certification company is the one that controls and ensures the fulfilment of the standards (certified by…) whereas an ecolabel refers to the compromise of guarantee. Nonetheless, this differentiation is not always very clear, because nowadays there are not many existing ecolabels without the backup of a certification body; therefore, it is used indistinctly. For the purpose of this paper, and better readability, the terms certification and ecolabels will be used interchangeably (especially because the ecolabels being studied - Biosphere World Class Destination - and their certification scheme - STR (Responsible Tourism System) - are part of the same awarding body – ITR (Responsible Tourism Institute). Ecolabels can be applied to product, services and destinations; yet, this study will always refer to the destination ones, as is the case of this study. Ecolabels can still be very different in terms of scope, popularity, quality, credibility, etc. Yet, the aim of ecolabels is usually the same, which is to improve the environmental performance. In figure 1, Font (2001) shows the different players that need to be involved in an ecolabel in order to be trustful. Figure 1 THE PLAYERS IN TOURISM ECOLABELS Source: Font (2001). In this chart, the different concepts mean the following: 1. Standards: A document approved by a recognised body that provides for common and repeated use of a prescribed set of rules, conditions or requirements. 2. Assessment: Process of examining, measuring, testing or otherwise determining conformance with requirements specified in an applicable standard. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO98 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 4. Recognition and acceptance: The basic purpose of such systems is to lead to recognition and acceptance by the industry as a strong voluntary standard, met by a crucial mass of players, and by the market as a quality symbol and a meaningful difference that influence purchasing behaviour (Font, 2002). The previous chart can be summarized by stating that for an ecolabel to be meaningful and trustful, this must be part of an ecolabel scheme accompanied by the use of certain indicators-criteria-, which are instruments to measure impacts and set procedures. These criteria are made up of standards and administered by a reputable organization. Without this backup, the ecolabel could end up being meaningless (Buckley, 2001; Diamantis & Westlake, 2001). Furthermore, the certification criteria should be disclosed and published in order to guarantee transparency (Naturefriends International, 2012). 3. CASE STUDY: BARCELONA Before introducing the case study, it is important to consider the value and importance of tourism in Barcelona. It is a city located in the Catalonian region in the north east part of Spain. It is the third city most visited in Europe after London and Paris and the 12th in the World (Hedrick-Won & Choong, 2016) and does not need much description as it is very well known. Moreover, over the last decades Barcelona has become one of the most successful models of urban development and place branding. The city complements its offer with many sports events, as well as finely developed shopping possibilities. This destination will only be presented in figures: Table 1 BARCELONA IN FIGURES Criteria Data: 2015 Evolution from 2011 Inhabitants in Barcelona city 1.604.555 -0.7% Inhabitants in Barcelona region 5.523.922 -0.9% Visitors 8.303.649 +112% Overnight stays 17.656.329 +114% Airport passengers 39.711.276 +115% AVE (high speed train) passengers 3.717.900 +143% Travellers coming on a cruise 2.364.292 +1% Beds offered 7.2946 +114% Business meetings a year 2.268 -0,6% Source: Instituto de Estadística de Cataluña (2015), Departament d’Estadística. Ajuntament de Barcelona (2015), INE (2016), Barcelona Convention Bureau (2016), Barcelona Turisme (2010b; 2016). As Barcelona has been increasingly receiving more tourists throughout the years, they are constantly trying to improve what they offer. To do so, in 2010, Barcelona City Council HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 99 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 together with the DMO, created the Strategic Plan for the city together with 8.000 people for different sectors. This Plan was focused on economic, social and environmental sustainability as its main principles. The Plan assumed these principles and believed that tourism is not a closed, independent economic sector, but a transversal reality. Moreover, the aim of the Plan was to maintain Barcelona´s international leadership as a prescriptor and innovative destination, which considering the tourists statistics seen above, seems fulfilled. This plan revealed the importance that the city gave to sustainability as it can be appreciated on the core objectives and focuses (Barcelona Turisme, 2010a): Table 2 BARCELONA TOURISM STRATEGIC PLAN 2010-2015 Core Objectives for 2015 Fostering improvements to tourist activity in Barcelona Ensuring that tourism fits in better with the needs of the city 4 major proposal to achieve objectives To determine the impact and effects generated by tourism activity in the city itself To reflect on the model of tourism in the city To set the tourism development of the city within a framework of sustainable growth To foster the positive involvement of the community in the city’s tourism project. The aim of the tourism model implemented was to express the type of tourism Barcelona aspired to, as well as the role this activity has to play in the city throughout its development. Three core principles defined the tourism model: • Coherence with the city model, based on a reciprocal feedback relationship, as well as in positive synergies in a bi-directional way. In this sense, the tourism model is part of the city model while helping to shape it, so that the coherence between both models is a key aspect. • The balanced relationship between visitors and residents, with no competition or conflict between them, based on cultural and economic exchanges and reciprocal contributions, understood as an enriching and mutually constructive experience. • Economic, social, environmental and heritage sustainability, in order to fulfill the needs of future generations while satisfying present needs. As seen in the objectives and principles, one of the strategic lines was to identify sustainability as a key factors for the sector´s competitiveness; which made it understandable that in 2011 Barcelona applied for a certification based on destination criteria: Biosphere Destination (before called Biosphere World Class Destination), which is the case being studied. This certification was renewed for three more years on 2014. Furthermore, in October 2013, private and public sector involved in tourism signed the document “Vision for Responsible Tourism in Catalonia 2020: the Barcelona Declara- ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO100 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 tion” in which they agreed on the criteria, directives and commitments to be implemented in the development in the sort of tourism captured by the slogan “best place to live, best place to visit”, which implies analysing the local resident, the environment and the tourists. And on a regional level, in November 2012, the regional Government established the Catalonia Tourists tax, which is basically a tax on stays in tourist establishments. The aim is to promote Catalonia region, encourage sustainable tourism, maintain and create tourism resources. However, in Barcelona in particular, all the income collected from the tax is destinated to create infrastructures to easy tourism congestion and better distribution of the wealth coming from tourism, making tourism more manageable for locals. Biosphere Destination Standard: As seen on the Strategic Plan, Barcelona is oriented to achieving sustainability, in its broader meaning on the city. One of the measures was to obtain an ecolabel. In June 2011 Barcelona was the first city in the world to obtain the Biosphere Destination Standard (nowadays there are other 13 Spanish destinations also certified). This certification was awarded by the ITR (Responsible Tourism Institute), an organization born after the World Conference on Sustainable Tourism (1995) sponsored by UNESCO. The main objective of the ITR has always been promoting the principles of the “World Charter For Sustainable Tourism” by implementing actions and programmes for sustainable development in the tourism industry. For this purpose, ITR follows the recommendations of the United Nations Conference for the protection of the environment and development (Rio-1992), and the guidelines of various programs of the WTO (World Tourism Organization) and UNESCO on sustainable development and protection of cultural and natural heritage. Therefore, currently the ITR maintains a cooperation agreement with UNESCO and is affiliated to the World Tourism Organization UNWTO, and member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). ITR claims that one of the most important challenges of today, and a responsibility of all stakeholders in tourism, is designing sustainable tourism patterns that allow you to develop “products” and “sustainable destinations”. Probably, that is the reason why the ITR created and developed the Responsible Tourism System (STR), which is recognized under the brand BIOSPHERE RESPONSIBLE TOURISM. This certification emerged as the answer to establish criteria for sustainable behaviour in the international tourist business. Therefore, the STR promotes sustainable tourism products. The Biosphere certification is built on standards (for destinations, hotels, tour operators, mobility, holiday rental houses and visitor centers) based on the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the 2030 Agenda, following the guidelines and recommendations of the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism +20 proclaimed in World Summit on Sustainable Tourism sponsored by COP21 (Climate Change Conference, Paris 2015), UNESCO, UNWTO and UNEP. ITR highlights some of the benefits of applying this certification (ITR, 2016): – Complete field of action (three sustainability pillars) – Less paperwork due to its orientation to results – Not too high implementation costs – Preservation and efficient management of natural resources HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 101 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 – Protection of the patrimony and cultural diversity – Improvement of the quality life of the local community – Resource efficiency (energy, water, emissions, waste, consumption, etc) – Maximization of the touristic experience for the visitor – Improvement of the tourism quality – Increase in the visitor’s confidence – Compatible with other certifications (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, EMAS, etc.) With Biosphere Destination Standard, Barcelona intended to construct a quality tourism model for promoting a balance between city residents and visitors while ensuring sustainability. The conservation and protection of the natural and cultural heritage of the destination, as well as its local traditions, was also highlighted. 4. METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH The purpose of this section has been to challenge the Biosphere Destination Standard to see its authenticity, and to do so, key stakeholders have been interviewed in order to see their implication with the project. Besides, two other measures have been undertaken to prove its reliability. First a focus group with the city stakeholders has been held, to determine if they were actually involved in this plan together with the DMO and if they actually believed in its importance towards achieving sustainability. Finding out this is important because when stakeholders choose to oppose to sustainable tourism strategies, they present a barrier to its realisation; therefore, recognizing their role as stakeholders is crucial and they need to be involved during the whole process (Waligo et al. 2015). The two other measures have been: To confront and pair up the set of criteria that Biosphere Destination Standard has, with the GSTC ones. As previously mentioned, the set of standards developed by ITR, fulfil the GSTC requirements and therefore this entity recognizes and approves them. In order to provide more information about this world guide accredited company, it can be said that the GSTC is a USA-registered non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including UN agencies, leading travel companies, hotels, country tourism boards, tour operators, individuals and communities. It establishes and manages global sustainable standards (for hotels and destinations) with the aim of increasing sustainable tourism knowledge and practices among public and private stakeholders. It can be believed that if the Biosphere standards meet the GSTC ones, they will be considered trustworthy. To adapt the certification to Font´s study about ecolabels: The players in tourism ecolabels. Font (2001), introduced the different factors that a well-planned and organized ecolabel must have. It is assumed that if Biosphere Destination Standard fulfils so, it will be showing its good design and credibility. In addition to this, the author aspired to also determine the opinion and feelings of the local population towards tourism in Barcelona. In order to do so, a discussion is included in this section, where different national and international newspapers registering the locals point of view are analyzed. It is important to bear in mind, that tourism sustainability has three pillars: economic, environmental and local population. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO108 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 Standard that has a specific requirement to take care of this: Standard D.7.2., “The destination must ensure a healthy air quality, free of pollutants” (Ajuntament de Barcelona, 2016). In regards to tourism satisfaction, the annual tourism activity poll shows that tourists rate Barcelona 8.6 but complain about its massification. Even more, 58% of the visitors believe that the city is too crowded. Barcelona has been classified as the 4th destination that disappoint tourists the most. Tourists are unsatisfied with massification and insecurity. Moreover, 39% of tourists believe that prices are too high considering the quality that they receive. A clear example of why tourists are giving negative results to Barcelona is that eight out of ten people walking down the Ramblas are tourists (Chibás, 2004). According to Labadi & Logan (2015) “bye bye Barcelona” focusses on the darker aspects of mass tourism in Barcelona; this is why this resource has been used in this discussion. The certification has a whole section to ensure that this does not happen: A.12.1. Destinations should have mechanisms to monitor, assess and publicly report visitor satisfaction, and, if necessary, to take action to improve visitor satisfaction and promote the quality of tourism services at all levels. Obviously, another aspect to take into account, and even more when talking about sustainable tourism, is the local population. In the case of Barcelona, even though tourism is creating 2 million euros a day, representing 12% of Barcelona’s GDP, local population are highly unsatisfied with the situation. A percentage of 13% of Barcelona residents assess as negative or very negative the fact that Barcelona is a world known destination. Even more, mass tourism is the second thing that most worries Barcelona citizens after unemployment (Genillo, 2016). One of the main impacts of this massification is many legal and illegal touristic apartments that are appearing everywhere in the city. Locals are selling their houses and leaving the centre traditional neighbourhoods (Palazzi, 2016). For instance, 51% of the properties in Ciutat Vella neighbourhood are touristic. This is causing a loss of identity in the city. A neighbour says “We are losing the small traditional businesses, all you can see now are souvenir shops everywhere and fast food restaurants. Prices are rising making the daily life impossible as there are floods of people everywhere” (Chibás, 2004). One representative of the neighbourhood associations says: “This is an invasion. We have lost The Ramblas, La Boquería market, Parc Güell...we are simply losing our city after tourists” (EVDCV, 2013). At the moment there are plenty of neighbour associations fighting against mass tourism as ABTS (neighbourhood assembly for a sustainable tourism) or ABA (Affected neighbourhood assembly). Furthermore, on many occasions, neighbours have organized protests in front of the city council, claiming a change in tourism policy. In Barcelona and anothers urban destiny we have not forget the extreme importance of the process of renovation/restructuration of existing, consolidated tourist destinations both as regards their tourism competitiveness and, especially, due to the consequences – often in the form of new conflict – than these processes have in environmental and social terms (Antón et al, 2011). According to López-Palomeque (2015), the association “turismo-conflicto” (tourismconflict) has been present in the debates regarding Barcelona’s tourism model, leading to many of its members suffering from tourism phobia. Once more, it is seen that the HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 109 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 certification covers this problem: Tools for civic participation in tourism and measurement of the satisfaction of the local community B.4.1. The destination must have a system that promotes public participation in destination planning and decision making. All these news regarding Barcelona and its neighbour also sounds internationally: “Will the citizens of Barcelona revolt against soaring tourist numbers? With the Catalonian city hosting five times as many visitors as 20 years ago, there is a feeling among some locals that the financial benefits are not worth the hassle” (Burgen, 2015). “Nobody goes there anymore, it’s too crowded” (Gulliver Business Travel, 2015). “Saturated by tourists, Barcelona wishes to revise its tourism model” (Thibaud, 2015). Furthermore, in November 2012 the regional government introduced the Catalonia Tourism Tax, which in Barcelona was used to easy tourism congestion. Also, in October 2013, private and public sector involved in tourism, in an attempt to ensure that tourism was growing in a satisfactory way in terms of sustainability, signed a document forecasting Barcelona’s situation in 2020 taking into account local residents, the environment and the tourists. If on the one hand, Biosphere Destination Standard has all the needed requirements to prevent this problems and on the other hand, Barcelona has made a great effort trying to control this situation from the Strategic plan in 2010; what went wrong? why is the city massified with tourism and both, tourists and locals are unsatisfied? 5. CONCLUSION The aim of this study was to find out if by implementing an ecolabel in a destination, applying an SDM model, tourism sustainability increases. The case being studied has been Barcelona, which in the last five years has increased number of visitors and overnight stays over 110%. As previously seen, back in 2010, Barcelona implemented a well-structured tourism strategic plan, where one of the core objectives was ensuring that tourism fits better with the needs of the city. In order to achieve this objective, two of the major proposals were to determine the impacts of tourism in the city and to set tourism development within the framework of sustainable growth. It is seen that even then, Barcelona tourism board and other stakeholders were concerned about tourism sustainability. One of the first measures to ensure this sustainability, was the implementation of the Biosphere Destination Standard. This ecolabel has been challenged throughout this research in two ways: by adapting it to Font´s study about ecolabels and by confronting it with one of the most recognized and well known destination criteria (GSTC, 2016). In both cases, the result was satisfactory, meaning that the ecolabel can be believed to be trustworthy and reliable. As the aim of the study is to determine whether ecolabels enhance sustainability in a destination, key tourism stakeholders of the city were interviewed to get their opinions. It has been seen after analysing the results that they have been very assertive on their answers, having no doubt of the impact of ecolabels towards sustainability. After observing that the DMO has made a great effort to plan and structure Barcelona tourism in a sustainable way with future perspectives and that key stakeholders are bonding together to implement a sustainable certification in the city, it can be surmised that ecolabels improve sustainability. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO110 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 However, it is important to bear in mind that tourism sustainability not only applies to the environment as it is commonly thought but also to two other aspects as the economy and the local population. With over eight million visitors (spending 2 million euros a day in the city) and well organized and structured DMO, it can be assumed that the economic pillar of sustainability is somewhat covered. Nevertheless, the third pillar regarding local population is the one that appears to also be failing, as the local population seems not to be satisfied at all with how the city is getting so many tourism, that the essence of the city is being lost. As seen on the discussion section of this research, the certification has standards to prevent this issue; yet, they do not seem to be enough. Moreover, Hughes et al (2015) believe that despite the new trends, there is still a wide gap between theory and practice in sustainable tourism as considering the number of international arrivals, the world’s tourism activity can be describe as mass tourism. Taking into account Hughes studies and all the research and fundamentals seen in this paper, it will be easy to believe that Barcelona is just a consequence of a worldwide phenomenon that cannot be controlled from just one destination and even less through tourism management tools. Accordingly, taking into account that the aim of the study was to discern whether ecolabels increase sustainability in a destination, out of this research, it can be stated that in some regard it does; however, fulfilling the three pillars of sustainability with just one ecolabel, taking into account the world trend towards mass tourism, it will be almost impossible to believe so. In conclusion, the strategic plan together with the ecolabel have not achieved the expected outcome. Even though the municipality is receiving millions of euros a year from tourism activity, the wealth redistribution and the alleviation of massification has not been achieved. Even more, this massification is making locals dislike tourists and its activities. Barcelona, has not been able to hold this invasion phenomenon that is taking place in many urban destinations these days. New sustainable measures are needed to meet the challenges set by the Barcelona Tourism Strategic Plan 2020 (Ajuntament de Barcelona, 2017). 6. REFERENCES AJUNTAMENT DE BARCELONA. (2010): Pla Estratègic de Turisme de la Ciutat de Barcelona 2010-2015. Ajuntament de Barcelona. Turisme de Barcelona. AJUNTAMENT DE BARCELONA. (2016): Anuario Estadístico de la ciudad de Barcelona, 2016. Territorio, clima y medio. Turisme de Barcelona. AJUNTAMENT DE BARCELONA. (2017): Plan Estratégico de Turismo 2020. 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Sustainable destination strategy The destination has established and is implementing a multi-year destination strategy that is publicly available, is suited to its scale; that considers environmental, economic, social, cultural, quality, health, and safety, and aesthetic issues; and was developed with public participation. IN-A1.a. Multi-year destination strategy that includes a focus on sustainability and sustainable tourism and includes environmental, economic, social, cultural, quality, health, and safety issues IN-A1.b. Multi-year destination plan or strategy that is up-to-date and publicly available IN-A1.c. Multi-year destination plan or strategy that was developed with public participation IN-A1.d. Political commitment to implement the multi-year destination plan and evidence of implementation A.1.2. The destination shall have a Responsible Tourism Policy that is documented and translated into customary languages, formally approved by the highest local authorities and communicated in an ongoing manner to residents and visitors. This policy shall consist in a public manifestation of the strategy adopted on sustainable tourism and will include the commitments made concerning sustainable tourism, in particular: • Adoption of the principles of the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism. • Commitment to prevent negative impacts of policies and activities, and to maximize positive impacts. • Commitment to on-going improvement in all areas of sustainability: Socio-cultural, economic and environmental. • Commitment to the satisfaction of visitors and residents. • Commitment to safety and health. Plan of action A.2.3. The destination must elaborate and publicly provide an operational document for continuous improvement, a Plan of Action (PA), reflecting the sustainable strategy of the destination. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 117 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 This Plan of Action must be developed with public participation and be based on the Responsible Tourism Policy and other issues related to environment, economy, society, quality, health and safety, culture and aesthetics. The PA must establish the specific targets and priorities needed for the fulfilment of the commitments made. This plan has to be structured with the following contents: • A prioritised list of objectives to be achieved, specifying the person responsible for achieving each point. • A general description of the measures designed to achieve these objectives and the deadlines and means for implementing the measures. The total timeline shall not exceed three years, by which time the Plan must have been reviewed and updated, setting new targets for improvement. • A definition of the follow-up planned for these objectives, to monitor compliance and to take action if necessary. • Promotion of responsible actions within tourism establishments: Promotion of the Responsible Tourism System (subsidies, information campaigns, etc.). • Development of the indicators needed to evaluate the continuous improvement of the destination in all areas of tourism sustainability. They shall be able to prove constant compliance with the requirements of this standard. This Plan of Action (PA) is a result of the Initial Diagnose carried out during the implementation process, and it should assess the strengths and weaknesses of the destination when it comes to act accordingly in a regular basis. A2 Destination management organization The destination has an effective organization, department, group, or committee responsible for a coordinated approach to sustainable tourism, with involvement by the private sector and public sector. This group is suited to the size and scale of the destination, and has defined responsibilities, oversight, and implementation capability for the management of environmental, economic, social, and cultural issues. This group’s activities are appropriately funded. IN-A2.a. An organization has responsibility for a coordinated approach to the management of sustainable tourism IN-A2.b. The private sector and public sector are involved in the organization and coordination of tourism IN-A2.c. The tourism organization is suited to the size and scale of the destination IN-A2.d. Individuals within the tourism organization have assigned responsibilities for sustainable tourism IN-A2.e. The tourism organization is appropriately funded Establishing a responsible functional organization A.3.1. The body responsible for the responsible tourism Management System in the destination has to establish a tool (organization, department, group or committee) according to the size and scale of the destination that allows the participation and collaboration of the private and public tourist sector and the local government for the administration of all issues related to sustainable development and its variables. This group should define its responsibilities, its monitoring and its ability to perform in terms of environmental, economic, social and cultural management. The organization’s activities must be appropriately funded. This can be done through work groups, sessions, agreements, collaborations, etc., and it is a necessary point in the implementation of measures for the “elements of the system”, tour operators and travel agencies. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO124 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 B.1.3. Development of an acting programme in favour of local products and services (fairs, markets, congresses, etc.). B2 Local career opportunities The destination’s enterprises provide equal employment, training opportunities, occupational safety, and fair wages for all. IN-B2.a. Legislation or policies supporting equal opportunities in employment for all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations IN-B2.b. Training programs that provide equal access to all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations IN-B2.c. Legislation or policies supporting occupational safety for all IN-B2.d. Legislation or policies supporting fair wages for all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations B.1.4. Programme for the identification of training needs for employees qualified in tourism, and development of actions for such training. B.1.5. Development of programmes to promote local ownership and management of tourism facilities and services (credits at low interest rates, incentives for local investors, information and technical services, etc.). B.1.6. Creating incentives for local tourism enterprises (SMEs) to incorporate new technologies. Promotion of the economic and social development of the community B.2.1. The department responsible for tourism should promote municipal sustainability projects, such as Local Agenda 21, the Biosphere Destination certification, etc. B.2.3. The department responsible for tourism must promote the collaboration in campaigns with social purposes, such as donation of used objects, food banks, etc., carried out by tourism companies at the destinations. Generation of job opportunities in the tourism sector and training B.3.1. They must employ or promote their employees regardless of their gender, religion, race, sexual orientation, etc., providing fair wages for all. B.3.2. They must develop training actions for their employees related to the tasks undertaken in their work and to sustainability. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 125 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 B.3.3. They must apply some measure for the reconciliation of work and family life of their employees, such as granting social benefits, incentive schemes, etc. B.3.4. Child labour not is allowed under any circumstances. B.3.5. They must ensure the prevention of occupational risks for all employees, applying the corresponding legislation, if any. In case there is no legislation, the Department must ensure the safety of its employees based on the international provisions of ILO. B.3.6. They must promote the recruitment of disabled workers. B.3.7. The body responsible for the responsible tourism Management System at the destination must ensure the development of actions designed to promote the recruitment of local staff within the private tourism sector. B3 Public participation The destination has a system that encourages public participation in destination planning and decision making on an ongoing basis. IN-B3.a. System for involving public, private, and community stakeholders in destination management planning and decision making IN-B3.b. Public meeting(s) to discuss destination management issues each year Tools for civic participation in tourism and measurement of the satisfaction of the local community B.4.1. The destination must have a system that promotes public participation in destination planning and decision making. B8 Support for community The destination has a system to enable and encourage enterprises, visitors, and the public to contribute to community and sustainability initiatives. IN-B8.a. Programs for enterprises, visitors, and the public to contribute donations to community and biodiversity conservation initiatives and/or infrastructure development B.4.2. The destination must involve tourism in the social life of the community, allowing it to participate and collaborate with the social events held, even lending its facilities, whenever possible and their characteristics allow it. B4 Local community opinion Local communities’ aspirations, concerns, and satisfaction with destination management are regularly monitored, recorded and publicly reported in a timely manner. IN-B4.a. Regular collection, monitoring, recording, and public reporting of data on resident aspirations, concerns, and satisfaction with destination management IN-B4.b. Collection, monitoring, recording, and public recording of data occurs in a timely manner B.4.3. It must also have tools and records for the assessment of aspirations, concerns, and satisfaction of local communities in terms of the management of the tourism activity through surveys, polls, etc. This information must be publicly reported in the appropriate manner. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO126 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 B5 Local access The destination monitors, protects, and when necessary rehabilitates or restores local community access to natural and cultural sites. IN-B5.a. Programs to monitor, protect, and rehabilitate or restore public access by locals and domestic visitors to natural and cultural sites IN-B5.b. Monitoring of behaviour and characteristics of local, domestic and foreign visitors to tourist sites and attractions Population access to destination sources B.5.1. The destination protects local community access to natural, historical, archaeological, religious, spiritual and cultural sites, including the use of land and water resources, rights of way, transport and accommodation. When necessary, the destination will rehabilitate or restore local community access to natural and cultural sites. B7 Preventing exploitation The destination has laws and established practices to prevent commercial, sexual, or any other form of exploitation and harassment of anyone, particularly of children, adolescents, women, and minorities. The laws and established practices are publicly communicated. IN-B7.a. Laws and a program to prevent commercial, sexual, or any other form of exploitation, discrimination or harassment of residents or visitors IN-B7.b. Laws and program are publicly communicated Policy for the prevention of commercial, sexual or any other kind of exploitation B.6.1. The agency responsible for the responsible tourism Management System has laws and clear and accurate policies to prevent commercial, sexual, or any other form of exploitation and harassment of anyone, particularly of children, adolescents, women, and minorities, reporting evidence of control in the mail tourism resources. The laws and established practices are publicly communicated. B9 Supporting local entrepreneurs and fair trade The destination has a system that supports local and small- and medium-sized enterprises, and promotes and develops local sustainable products and fair trade principles that are based on the area’s nature and culture. These may include food and beverages, crafts, performance arts, agricultural products, etc. IN-B9.a. Program to support and build capacity of local and small- and medium-sized enterprises IN-B9.b. Program encourages enterprises to purchase goods and services locally IN-B9.c. Program to promote and develop local sustainable products based on local nature and culture IN-B9.d. Program to include local artisans, farmers, and suppliers in the tourism value chain Promotion of the multiplying effect and of fair and/ or local trade B.7.1. The agency responsible for the responsible tourism Management System must ensure that measures are taken to promote responsible acquisitions, supporting local and small- and mediumsized enterprises, and promoting local sustainable products and fair trade principles that are based on the area’s nature and culture. These may include food and beverages, crafts, performance arts, agricultural products, etc. These measures must be met by the managing body/bodies and/or any other agency involved in the System in any way. They must also be actively promoted within the private sector. B.7.2. Visitors must be provided with information on sites, museums, restaurants, shops and services in order to promote their visits and consumption, allowing for a multiplying effect beyond the most usual and crowded tourism resources. A6 Inventory of tourism assets and attractions The destination has an up-to-date, publicly available inventory and assessment of its tourism assets and attractions, including natural and cultural sites. IN-A6.a. Current inventory and classification of tourism assets and attractions including natural and cultural sites Responsible management in the socio-cultural sphere C.1.1. The destination has an up-to-date, publicly available inventory, a Plan of action and assessment of its tourism assets and attractions, including natural and cultural sites. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 127 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 C6 Intellectual property The destination has a system to contribute to the protection and preservation of intellectual property rights of communities and individuals. IN-C6.a. Laws, regulations or programs to protect intellectual property rights of local individuals and communities C.1.2. The destination has a system to contribute to the protection and preservation of intellectual property rights of communities and individuals. C.1.3. Creation and development of initiatives with the participation of citizens and interested parties in the decision-making process in terms of tourism. B6 Tourism awareness and education The destination provides regular programs to affected communities to enhance their understanding of the opportunities and challenges of tourism, and the importance of sustainability. IN-B6.a. Program to raise awareness of tourism’s role and potential contribution held in communities, schools, and higher education institutions C.1.4. Elaboration of training, information and awareness campaigns on sustainable tourism, both for entrepreneurs and citizens. C.1.5. The destination provides regular programs to affected communities to enhance their understanding of the opportunities and challenges of tourism, and the importance of sustainability. C.1.6. Development of an acting programme in favour of tangible and intangible cultural heritage: festivals, folklore, etc. C4 Cultural heritage protection The destination has laws governing the proper sale, trade, display, or gifting of historical and archaeological artifacts. IN-C4.a. Laws or regulations to protect historical and archaeological artifacts including those located under water, and evidence of their enforcement IN-C4.b. Program to protect and celebrate intangible cultural heritage (e.g., includes song, music, drama, skills and crafts) C.1.7. The destination has laws governing the proper sale, trade, display, or gifting of historical and archaeological artifacts. It must also develop specific actions for the protection and preservation of crafts and local arts. Besides, they won’t be allowed to sale, trade or display historical and archaeological artifacts unless legally permissible. C.1.8. Definition of building restrictions for tourism facilities in order to ensure the respect for local architecture. C1 Attraction protection The destination has a policy and system to evaluate, rehabilitate, and conserve natural and cultural sites, including built heritage (historic and archaeological) and rural and urban scenic views. IN-C1.a. Management system to protect natural and cultural sites, including build heritage and rural and urban scenic views IN-C1.b. Management system to monitor, measure, and mitigate tourism impacts on sites and attractions C.1.9. The destination has a policy and system to evaluate, rehabilitate, and conserve natural and cultural sites, including built heritage (historic and archaeological) and rural and urban scenic views. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO128 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 IN-B2.b. Training programs that provide equal access to all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations C.1.10. Creation of mechanisms to maximize social cohesion and minimize conflict, such as training and employment programmes for groups in danger of social exclusion. B5 Local access The destination monitors, protects, and when necessary rehabilitates or restores local community access to natural and cultural sites. IN-B5.a. Programs to monitor, protect, and rehabilitate or restore public access by locals and domestic visitors to natural and cultural sites IN-B5.b. Monitoring of behaviour and characteristics of local, domestic and foreign visitors to tourist sites and attractions C.1.11. Development of mechanisms to ensure access to all facilities and attractions generated by tourism for the residents. C.1.12. Development of mechanisms to support developing countries, to the extent feasible. IN-B2.a. Legislation or policies supporting equal opportunities in employment for all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations IN-B2.b. Training programs that provide equal access to all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations IN-B2.d. Legislation or policies supporting fair wages for all, including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations C.1.13. Development of measures to minimize gender, race, religious and sexual discrimination within the tourism sector. C2 Visitor management IN-C2.a. Administrative mechanism responsible for implementing visitor management plans and operations Plan for the management of visitors and the capacity of the destination C.2.1. The destination must establish a visitor management system that assesses the distribution of the tourism activity in districts, areas or territorial resources, including measures to preserve, protect, and enhance natural and cultural assets, in order to avoid overcrowding and always taking into account the carrying capacity of the destination. C.2.2. There should also be measures to promote a more equitable distribution of benefits and burdens generated by tourism. D1 Environmental risks The destination has identified environmental risks and has a system in place to address them. D2 Protection of sensitive environments The destination has a system to monitor the environmental impact of tourism, conserve habitats, species, and ecosystems, and prevent the introduction of invasive species. C.2.3. The destination must establish indicators for the carrying capacity of tourism in order to prevent tourism over-exploitation and deterioration of the environment. Public and private institutions must take action focused on the integrated planning of tourism as a contribution to sustainable development. Environmentally and culturally vulnerable areas must be a priority when planning financial aid and technical cooperation to sustainable tourism development. Promotion of knowledge among visitors C.4.1. The destination must promote local gastronomy in its offer. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 129 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 C.4.2. The destination must promote sustainability certification of restaurants. C.4.3. The destination must offer activities related to its cultural resources. C.4.4. The destination must provide visitors with information about the main cultural resources in the area, providing information about opening hours, natural surroundings, appropriate behaviour, etc. C5 Site interpretation Accurate interpretive information is provided at natural and cultural sites. The information is culturally appropriate, developed with community collaboration, and communicated in languages pertinent to visitors. IN-C5.a. Interpretive information available to visitors in tourist offices and at natural and cultural sites IN-C5.b. Interpretive information is culturally appropriate IN-C5.c. Interpretive information is developed with community collaboration IN-C5.d. Interpretive information is available in languages pertinent to visitors IN-C5.e. Tour guide training in the use of interpretive information C.4.5. The destination provides accurate interpretive information at natural and cultural sites. The information is culturally appropriate, developed with community collaboration, and communicated in languages pertinent to visitors. C6 Intellectual property The destination has a system to contribute to the protection and preservation of intellectual property rights of communities and individuals. IN-C6.a. Laws, regulations or programs to protect intellectual property rights of local individuals and communities C4 Cultural heritage protection The destination has laws governing the proper sale, trade, display, or gifting of historical and archaeological artifacts. IN-C4.a. Laws or regulations to protect historical and archaeological artifacts including those located under water, and evidence of their enforcement IN-C4.b. Program to protect and celebrate intangible cultural heritage (e.g., includes song, music, drama, skills and crafts) Tools to support the development and maintenance of the culture of the destination by tourists C.5.1. The destination must establish mechanisms for interested visitors to actively collaborate with the destination in its preservation, conservation and cultural promotion. C3 Visitor behavior The destination has published and provided guidelines for proper visitor behavior at sensitive sites. Such guidelines are designed to minimize adverse impacts on sensitive sites and strengthen positive visitor behaviors. IN-C3.a. Cultural and environmental guidelines for visitor behaviour in sensitive sites IN-C3.b. Code of practice for tour guides and tour operators Responsible behaviour C.6.1 The destination has published and provided guidelines for proper visitor behaviour at sensitive sites. Such guidelines are designed to minimize adverse impacts on sensitive sites and strengthen positive visitor behaviours. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO130 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 D1 Environmental risks The destination has identified environmental risks and has a system in place to address them. IN-D1.a. Sustainability assessment of the destination within the last five years, identifying environmental risks IN-D1.b. System in place to address identified risks Landscape protection and environmental impact assessment studies D.1.1. The destination must carry out an environmental impact assessment study in terms of land use. This study must include a system for the assessment of the impact of tourism and the management of the impacts of intensive tourism on landscapes and ecosystems, including vulnerable or endangered wildlife habitats. It must also include a visitor management system for attraction sites that includes measures to preserve, protect, and enhance natural and cultural assets. D2 Protection of sensitive environments The destination has a system to monitor the environmental impact of tourism, conserve habitats, species, and ecosystems, and prevent the introduction of invasive species. IN-D2.a. Maintained and updated inventory of sensitive and threatened wildlife and habitats IN-D2.b. Management system to monitor impacts and to protect ecosystems, D.1.2. The destination has a system to monitor the environmental impact of tourism, conserve habitats, species, and ecosystems, and prevent the introduction of invasive species. D.1.3. To the extent feasible, the destination must request or encourage tourism enterprises to have an environmental management plan that includes measures to control vegetation, landfills, to avoid the introduction of invasive species and implement other control measures to avoid pollution. D.1.4. The destination must check that facilities and infrastructures don’t have an impact on the landscape, developing mechanisms to minimize the impact of buildings and infrastructures on the landscape. D.1.5. Outdoor signage should not have an impact either. D.1.6. Gardens must prioritize native species in order not to cause a severe alteration of the natural landscape. D12 Low-impact transportation The destination has a system to increase the use of low-impact transportation, including public transportation and active transportation (e.g., walking and cycling). IN-D12.a. Program to increase the use of lowimpact transportation IN-D12.b. Program to make sites of visitor interest more accessible to active transportation (e.g., walking and cycling) Sustainable transport D.2.1 The destination has a system to increase the use of low-impact transportation, including public transportation and active transportation (e.g., walking and cycling). D.2.2. Promotion of bike lanes (where possible). D.2.3. Development of mechanisms in order to ensure that tourists have access to a quality public transport system. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 131 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 Natural resources D.3.1. The destination has identified environmental risks and has a system in place to address them. A6 Inventory of tourism assets and attractions The destination has an up-to-date, publicly available inventory and assessment of its tourism assets and attractions, including natural and cultural sites. IN-A6.a. Current inventory and classification of tourism assets and attractions including natural and cultural sites D.3.2. The destination has an up-to-date, publicly available inventory of its natural resources (fauna, flora, etc.) and assessment of its tourism assets and attractions, including natural and sensitive sites. These must be publicly available. D.3.3. Development of measures to preserve these sites and resources. D3 Wildlife protection The destination has a system to ensure compliance with local, national, and international laws and standards for the harvest or capture, display, and sale of wildlife (including plants and animals). IN-D3.a. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) IN-D3.b. Regulations and standards for controlling harvesting or capture, display, sale, of plants and animals Wildlife protection D.4.1.The destination has a system to ensure compliance with local, national, and international laws and standards for the harvest or capture, display, and sale of wildlife (including plants and animals). D5 Energy conservation The destination has a system to encourage enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and publicly report energy consumption, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. IN-D5.a. Program to promote energy conservation and measure, monitor, reduce, and publicly report energy consumption IN-D5.b. Policies and incentives to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve energy efficiency, and encourage the adoption and use of renewable energy technologies Energy management and control D.5.1. The destination has a system to encourage enterprises to measure, reduce, and publicly report energy consumption, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. D.5.2. It must also implement general saving practices such as turning lights en devices off after use, avoiding the unnecessary use of air conditioning or heating, disconnecting devices that are not being used, etc. There should be written guidelines. D.5.3. Best technologies available should be promoted within the tourism sector to reduce energy consumption: Clean energies, bioclimatic techniques, use of waste heat, etc. D.5.4. The destination must ensure the purchase of equipment with the highest energy efficiency, including luminaires, boilers, white goods, cameras, etc. ROCÍO ARENADO RODRÍGUEZ, ANA GARCÍA LÓPEZ & JOSÉ L. JIMÉNEZ CABALLERO132 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 D.5.5. Energy losses of all equipment must be minimized through the use of appropriate insulation (pipes, batteries, watertight joints, etc.), cleaning plans (heat exchangers, evaporators, etc.), separation of cold and warm areas, maintenance plans. D.5.6. Awareness plans about energy saving must be developed for residents and visitors. D.5.7. Renewable energy programmes must be promoted. D6 Water Management The destination has a system to encourage enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and publicly report water usage. IN-D6.a. Program to assist enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and publicly report water usage Water Management And Control D.6.1. The destination has a system to monitor its water resources and develops water saving programmes at a public and private level to encourage enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and publicly report water usage. Tourism facilities must implement general saving practices, such as avoiding leaving taps open, repairing leaks, etc. D.6.2. There must be documented guidelines to ensure the maximal water saving. D.6.3. Awareness plans about water saving must be developed for residents and visitors. D.6.4. Mechanisms are developed to ensure an adequate waste management. D8 Water quality The destination has a system to monitor drinking and recreational water quality using quality standards. The monitoring results are publicly available, and the destination has a system to respond in a timely manner to water quality issues. IN-D8.a. Management system to monitor and publicly report on drinking and recreational water quality IN-D8.b. Monitoring results are publicly available IN-D8.c. System to respond in a timely manner to water quality issues D.6.5. The destination has a system to monitor drinking and recreational water quality using quality standards. The monitoring results are publicly available, and the destination has a system to respond in a timely manner to water quality issues. D.9. The destination has clear and enforced guidelines in place for the siting, maintenance and testing of discharge from septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems, and ensures wastes are properly treated and reused or released safely with minimal adverse effects to the local population and the environment. IN-D9.a. Regulations for the siting, maintenance, and testing of discharge from septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems, and evidence of their enforcement IN-D9.b. Regulations to ensure the size and type of waste water treatment is adequate for the location, and evidence of their enforcement IN-D9.c. Program to assist enterprises to effectively treat and reuse D.6.6. The destination has clear and enforced guidelines in place for the siting, maintenance and testing of discharge from septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems, and ensures wastes are properly treated and reused or released safely with minimal adverse effects to the local population and the environment. HAS IMPLEMENTING AN ECOLABEL INCREASED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BARCELONA? 133 Cuadernos de Turismo, 40, (2017), 93-134 D.6.7. The use of purified water for irrigation must be prioritized. In those cases when the reuse of water is not feasible, the destination will implement measures that allow an efficient irrigation, adapting to the water conditions of the area, such as drip irrigation, sand, retention granules, appropriate schedules, etc. D7 Water security The destination has a system to monitor its water resources to ensure that use by enterprises is compatible with the water requirements of the destination community. IN-D7.a. Management system to ensure that water use by enterprises and water requirements of the destination community are balanced and compatible D.6.8. The destination has a system to monitor its water resources to ensure that use by enterprises is compatible with the water requirements of the destination community. D4 Greenhouse gas emissions The destination has a system to encourage enterprises to measure, monitor, minimize, publicly report, and mitigate their greenhouse gas IN-D4.a. Program to assist enterprises to measure, monitor, minimize, and publicly report greenhouse gas emissions IN-D4.b. System to assist enterprises to mitigate greenhouse gas Greenhouse Gas Emission D.7.1. The destination has a system to encourage enterprises to measure, monitor, minimize, publicly report, and mitigate their greenhouse gas emissions from all aspects of their operation (including emissions from service providers). D.7.2. The destination must ensure a healthy air quality, free of pollutants. D.7.3. The destination must carry out studies on greenhouse gas emission in tourist areas and establish goals to their minimization. D11 Light and noise pollution The destination has guidelines and regulations to minimize light and noise pollution. The destination encourages enterprises to follow these guidelines and regulations. IN-D11.a. Guidelines and regulations to minimize noise and light pollution IN-D11.b. Program to encourage enterprises to follow guidelines and regulations to minimize noise and light pollution Light And Noise Pollution D.8.1. The destination has guidelines and regulations to minimize light and noise pollution. The destination encourages enterprises to follow these guidelines and regulations. D.8.2. The destination must elaborate a noise map and develop mechanisms to its minimization. Waste management and control D.9.1. The destination must count on a selective collection system for urban waste. D.9.2. There must be control mechanisms for landfill management. D.9.3. The destination must develop the creation of recycling sites with accurate information for visitors.