The Canary Islands are set to implement a voluntary tourist tax aimed at funding sustainability projects across the archipelago. This initiative, known as the RegNext Fund, allows visitors to contribute to environmental and community efforts without imposing a mandatory levy. With 18.4 million tourists visiting in 2025, the islands are looking to enhance their ecological and cultural integrity through this innovative funding model.
The RegNext initiative will support five pilot projects, each targeting areas with high tourism pressure, alongside a broader social project. This approach not only aims to restore natural habitats and improve landscapes but also seeks to create green jobs and reduce poverty, thereby benefiting local communities.
Backed by major travel companies like easyJet holidays and TUI, the initiative is seen as a significant step towards regenerative tourism. By encouraging voluntary contributions, the Canary Islands hope to set a precedent for sustainable tourism practices that can be replicated elsewhere.
As the tourism sector plays a crucial role in local employment, this initiative could reshape how tourism impacts the environment and communities. The success of RegNext may influence other destinations to adopt similar models, promoting a shift towards sustainability in global tourism.
Source: Euronews
