Challenges and opportunities of tourism in the Mediterranean islands: a sustainable future

The Mediterranean, a vast sea that hosts numerous islands, has become a premier tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. This phenomenon, while bringing significant economic benefits, also poses serious challenges for local communities. In the islands, unchecked tourist growth has begun to reveal its dark side, where the cost of living in these maritime jewels has considerably increased for their residents. The impact of mass tourism manifests in various ways. There is growing pressure on limited natural resources, as well as an erosion of the social fabric that has traditionally characterized these communities. The development and expansion of the tourism sector have undoubtedly been catalysts for job opportunities, especially for young people and women, in addition to improving infrastructure and promoting enriching cultural exchange. However, the price of this growth is becoming unsustainable. Thus, the essence of sustainability becomes an unavoidable imperative. The effects of climate change add an additional layer of complexity to the tourism landscape. The islands, due to their fragile nature, require a growth approach that is balanced and respectful of their environment. The local economy and the well-being of communities must be at the center of development strategies, ensuring that economic benefits are distributed fairly. The distribution of tourist offerings in the Mediterranean is uneven. Despite having more than 25,000 hotels and 1.85 million beds, a large portion of the activity is concentrated in the Balearic Islands, Sicily, and Crete. In this context, it is essential for both national and regional policymakers to recognize the value of tourism and work together to develop a common strategy that ensures a resilient and sustainable tourism sector. The transformation of tourism in the Mediterranean islands requires a change in mindset among all stakeholders involved, from businesses to the tourists themselves. This new vision must focus on the pillars of sustainability: the economic dimension, environmental protection, and social well-being. Only through a collaborative approach can a tourism model be built that is not only profitable but also respects and enriches local communities. The challenges of climate change, economic diversification, and the management of seasonality are issues that cannot be addressed in isolation. The islands must unite and coordinate efforts to tackle these challenges, developing a coherent tourism market that allows them to compete globally. The creation of a "unified Mediterranean brand" could be an effective way to promote tourism aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Community tourism emerges as a viable solution, promoting a deeper cultural exchange and a real commitment to the visited place. Education and awareness of visitors are key in this process; tourists have the power to positively influence the economy and well-being of the regions they choose to explore. Digitalization and the fourth industrial revolution offer crucial tools to transform the island economy. These innovations can be catalysts for inclusion, cooperation, and competitiveness, facilitating the transition to more sustainable and responsible tourism models. Alignment with the 2030 Agenda and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions must also be priority objectives for the Mediterranean islands. Adopting an island-scale approach in terms of environmental respect, resource management, and the promotion of local cultures is essential. If the islands can effectively implement these strategies, they can become beacons of hope for the rest of the Mediterranean region. The path to sustainability is complex, but a commitment to responsible and conscious tourism can lead to a more prosperous and equitable future for all. The Mediterranean, with its rich cultural and natural diversity, has the potential to lead the change towards tourism that is not only a source of income but also a driver for sustainable development. The islands, with their uniqueness and fragility, should exemplify how it is possible to balance economic growth with the protection of their heritage and the improvement of the quality of life for their inhabitants.