The Garrotxa region has strengthened its commitment to sustainability in the tourism sector during a new edition of the 'Garrotxa a la Carta' event. The gathering, held at Mas Sobeies in Vall de Bianya, focused on energy efficiency, business best practices, and linguistic sustainability, while also recognizing companies adhering to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (CETS) and the Linguistically Responsible Company (ELR) project.
The meeting served as a platform for exchanging experiences among companies, professionals, and institutions, addressing the sector's challenges and opportunities. The welcome was given by the mayor of Vall de Bianya, Marc Toboso, and the deputy director general of People and Nature of the Generalitat de Catalunya, Anna Estella. Subsequently, Arnau Dorca, technician at the Volcanic Zone Natural Park of La Garrotxa, presented the status of the CETS in the region.
Improving energy efficiency in tourist establishments was a key point, with presentations by Laia Tarradas (PIMEC Girona) and M. Àngels Pita. Companies such as Cabanyes entre Valls (represented by Àlex López) and Hotel Bell Repòs (with Sònia Joanals) shared their experiences in sustainable management. Linguistic sustainability also played a significant role, with input from Oriol Ampuero, technician from the Department of Linguistic Policy of the Generalitat, who highlighted the importance of Catalan in business strategies.
The event concluded with the presentation of accreditations to companies committed to CETS and the ELR project, emphasizing their contribution to a sustainable tourism model. The president of Turisme Garrotxa, Gemma Canalias, closed the event, which included a visit to Mas Sobeies and a tasting of local products. The CETS, promoted by the EUROPARC Federation, has been a benchmark for sustainable tourism in Garrotxa for 25 years.
