Overtourism occurs when too many visitors overwhelm a destination, creating more problems than benefits, as seen in cities like Barcelona and Venice.

Overtourism causes road congestion, displaces local tenants, limits landmark access, and leads to environmental issues like littering and disturbance.

The tourism industry significantly contributes to Europe's economy, accounting for 10% and employing 12.3 million people, but faces challenges like low wages.

Cities are managing overtourism with policies like banning new hotels in Amsterdam and limiting tourist rental time in Barcelona.

Effective management of overtourism requires balancing liveability, benefits, and sustainability to protect destinations.

Sustainable tourism certification programs, like UNWTO.QUEST, are crucial for promoting responsible tourism and reducing overtourism's negative impacts.

High costs and lack of standards hinder sustainable tourism certification, requiring government support to overcome these challenges.

Advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and blockchain can enhance sustainable tourism management by optimizing resources and reducing environmental impact.

Hotels can reduce energy use through digital transformation, as they consume 50% more energy than residential buildings.

IoT platforms and data-driven insights can help hotels predict maintenance needs and reduce their carbon footprint.

Stakeholder collaboration is necessary for a sustainable industry transformation through initiatives like reducing plastic waste and promoting zero-waste tourism.

Evaluating sustainable tourism's economic benefits helps stakeholders make informed decisions that can positively impact the environment, economy, and local communities.

The green transformation of tourism benefits the environment and economy by promoting biodiversity, improving living standards, and creating jobs.

Overtourism occurs when too many visitors overwhelm a destination, creating more problems than benefits, as seen in cities like Barcelona and Venice.

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Sedona Film Festival presents ‘Crowded Out’

“Crowded Out” is a powerful short documentary exploring over-tourism, featuring interviews with local residents and global experts. (Image provided by SIFF)

Originally Published: September 14, 2022 8:43 p.m.

The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present the third film in its four-week Sustainable Tourism Film Series. “Crowded Out: The Story of Overtourism” will show on Thursday, Sept. 22 at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre at 4 p.m. The event will also include a selection of “Sustainable Travel: Where Next?” short films along with a panel discussion.

“Crowded Out” is a powerful short documentary exploring overtourism, featuring interviews with local residents and global experts.

Overtourism occurs when there are too many visitors to a particular destination. When rent prices push out local tenants to make way for holiday rentals, when narrow roads become jammed with tourist vehicles, when tourists cannot view landmarks because of the crowds – these are all signs of overtourism.

And it is the backlash from local residents that has made overtourism news. Cities such as Barcelona, Venice and Dubrovnik, and places once thought of as remote such as Iceland and Skye have suffered firsthand, and the protests by local residents have spread.

There has been decades of virtually uncontrolled growth, and it has crossed a threshold: in many destinations, tourism now demonstrably creates more problems than benefits.

This special event will also include a selection of short films from “Sustainable Travel: Where Next?” This series includes short-form documentary films, featuring insightful stories from the global travel and tourism sector showing how they are driving sustainable travel and protecting these precious destinations.

Following the screenings, there will be a panel discussion with representatives the City of Sedona, the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, Keep Sedona Beautiful and the tourism and hospitality industry here.

“Crowded Out: The Story of Overtourism” will be shown at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members. For tickets and more information, please call 928-282-1177. Both the theatre and film festival office are located at 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, in West Sedona. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.org.

The final film in the Sustainable Tourism Series is:

Thursday, Sept. 29 at 4 p.m. “Vendemmia”

Overtourism causes road congestion, displaces local tenants, limits landmark access, and leads to environmental issues like littering and disturbance.

The tourism industry significantly contributes to Europe's economy, accounting for 10% and employing 12.3 million people, but faces challenges like low wages.

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“Let the tourists go home! ” – Over-sightseeing is overwhelming the residents of Europe ’ s popular cities
Lisa Stüve
14 July 2024
Many of Europe ’ s holiday destinations are expected to see record numbers of visitors this summer.
However, local residents were deeply troubled by the development of mass tourism and took to the streets to protest.
Is there a solution?
Https: / / p.dw.com / p / 4iD5I
In many of Europe's most popular tourist cities, residents began to protest against the influx of tourists.
Venice is one of them, the local residents are plagued by tourism, the city's housing prices are rising, and the number of available housing is decreasing.
Venice ’ s Old Town also has a resident population of less than 49,000, compared to an estimated 20 million tourists visiting Venice each year.
Europe has the most visitors from all over the world, and Venice isn ’ t the only city to suffer from a surge in visitors.
In Barcelona and other tourist cities in Spain, there are increasing reports of local residents protesting against tourists.
In Lisbon, Prague and Amsterdam, large-scale tourism has led to growing tensions between tourists and locals.
Residents everywhere protested for the same reasons: rising rents, soaring property prices, and problems with access to resources.
Tourism is one of the economic sources
The EU estimates that tourism accounts for about 10 per cent of the economy's total output.
About 12.3 million people are employed in the industry.
“But these are just abstract numbers, ” says Sebastian Zenker, a tourism researcher at Copenhagen Business School.
He pointed out that if rents rise at the same time, property prices exceed residents' affordability, and restaurants are affordable only to tourists, then the income from tourism will not bring real benefits to local residents.
For locals, tourism development must provide them with the balance they feel – that is, liveability is not unduly negatively affected while benefiting from tourism.
Although a large number of people are employed in the tourism industry, "only a few have a good income or can make a living from it," Zeng said in an interview with Deutsche Welle.
He said low wages were a problem.
In Italy, where there is no legal minimum wage, the minimum hourly wage is 4.85 euros in Portugal and 6.87 euros in Spain.
Big tourist tax
Where did all the money go?
Paul Peeters, who studies sustainable tourism and transportation at the University of Breda in the Netherlands, says the money is mostly going to the airline industry, large hotel chains, international companies and cruise lines.
When calculating the flow of tourism, the choice of travel mode is crucial. Cruise tourists eat and drink on board, and passengers who order through large travel agencies usually sell their tickets, hotels, and meals in packages, which tend to spend less locally.
But at the same time, the arrival of tourists brings with it air pollution and water consumption – all at the expense of local residents.
This sense of imbalance has further exacerbated tensions between locals and tourists.
All stakeholders in the tourism industry understand that they need tourists, and the question is how to develop tourism and what kind of tourism to develop.
Copenhagen tourism researcher Zeng Ke said.
Restrictive marketing, rules and bans
The first policies are in place.
For example, new hotels are no longer allowed in Amsterdam.
In addition, the city is trying to control drug and party-themed tourism through targeted restrictive marketing measures.
“De-marketing ” refers to advertising strategies designed to reduce the demand for a product from a specific target group – for example, the city of Amsterdam.
In Lisbon and Palma de Mallorca, the housing market has long been disconnected from the needs of residents and economic realities.
Response: No new rental licenses will be issued to online short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb.
Mallorca has set a time limit for tourist rental housing.
Barcelona has taken a more radical step: the city ’ s 10,000 vacation apartment permits for tourists are set to expire in 2028.
The move aims to reduce pressure on the housing market.
Rents in Barcelona have risen by more than 60% in the past decade.
In addition, there will be further restrictions on the scope of cruise activities or additional charges.
From 2021, Venice will no longer allow large cruise ships to sail into its waters in its historic center.
Amsterdam plans to adopt a similar measure in 2026.
This will not only reduce the number of tourists, but also reduce air pollution.
Are tourists bad too?
Similar to Amsterdam, Mallorca wants to shake off the image of a party city.
They hope to reduce the overall number of tourists, and will be more willing to accept those who can afford to spend.
This is known in industry jargon as “high quality tourism ”.
But is this the solution to the problem?
“It ’ s not, ” says Macià Blázquez-Salom, a geography professor and activist.
He is also a resident of Mallorca.
He believes that excessive emphasis on “luxury tourism ” will only exacerbate inequality.
“‘ Party tours ’ and ‘ beach tours ’ are often limited to specific areas and operate on a scale and standardised basis similar to factory production lines, ” Blasker-Salon told Deutsche Welle.
Its immediate impact is often limited to a small part of the city.
In contrast, tourists with high spending power typically have higher demand, consume more water, tend to travel more excursions, and generally have the financial means to purchase property.
“This will further promote gentrification (Gentrifizierung) and with it the possibility of real estate speculation, ” explains Blaske Salon.
"This type of visitor will have a direct impact on the lives of all the residents," the statement said.
Making tourism sustainable
The tourism industry is still largely driven by pure data growth and is delighted with the growing number of visitors each year.
But for residents of places like Barcelona, Venice and Mallorca, further growth is no longer an acceptable option.
Is there a solution?
Peters says keeping visitor numbers within the limits of what cities and communities can afford or as a way to do it.
He said that ecological and social factors should be taken into account when formulating tourism development strategies and management measures.
For tourism to be sustainable, agreements must be reached with airlines, ports and airport operators, which are often driven by overcapacity – that is, by expanding growth.
© 2024 Deutsche Welle Copyright Notice: All content in this article is protected by copyright law and may not be used without special permission from Deutsche Welle.
Any misconduct will lead to recovery and criminal prosecution.

Cities are managing overtourism with policies like banning new hotels in Amsterdam and limiting tourist rental time in Barcelona.

Effective management of overtourism requires balancing liveability, benefits, and sustainability to protect destinations.

Sustainable tourism certification programs, like UNWTO.QUEST, are crucial for promoting responsible tourism and reducing overtourism's negative impacts.

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Content: Conference held in partnership with the Department of Economic Development Competitiveness Office of Abu Dhabi and UNWTO Academy discussed tourism excellence, sustainability and diversity

UNWTO.TedQual, a quality certification system for universities and training centres  introduced

Abu Dhabi, UAE: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Department of Economic Development Competitiveness Office of Abu Dhabi held a conference on 25 January at the St. Regis Abu Dhabi to discuss various themes contributing to tourism excellence, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization’s Academy (UNWTO Academy).

Aiming to further build capacity in the emirate’s tourism sector, DCT Abu Dhabi and UNWTO Academy also recently introduced the UNWTO.QUEST Certification for quality assurance in the industry, and the UNWTO.TedQual Certification, a programme which aims to enhance the quality of tourism education, training and research programmes in UAE universities.

Titled ‘Sustainability and Competitiveness: Tourism Potentials and Challenges’, the conference brought together experts in sustainability and tourism, and helped attendees develop an understanding of the role of diversity, equity, inclusion, sustainability, and strategic leadership in enhancing destination competitiveness.

The conference agenda discussed practices and strategies that could be adopted by tourism stakeholders to contribute to the development of more a competitive and responsible tourism destination. Among the attendees were H.E. Hala Khaled Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Competitiveness Office of Abu Dhabi (COAD) at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development; H.E. Hanan Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre; and Mr. Ammar Anwar Sajwani, Director of Tourism Development Department, UAE Ministry of Economy.

H.E. Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Through various initiatives, we are enabling industry-wide discussions that contribute to a sustainable tourism future. With a focus on education, we are keen to deliver continued tourism excellence, channelling innovation through a fresh lens. Encouraging these vital discussions is key to creating enduring, meaningful, and impactful change for Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector and delivering our vision for the future. The academic programme and certifications are in alignment with DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advancing the tourism industry and empowering young individuals.”

H.E. Hala Khaled Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Competitiveness Office of Abu Dhabi (COAD) at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, added: "In a remarkable event today, we witnessed the transformative power of collaboration, showcasing the pivotal role it plays in enhancing Abu Dhabi's competitiveness. This serves as a testament to the success achieved through our partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the value of working together for a stronger, more prosperous future."

The event featured distinguished keynote speakers who are collaborators of the UNWTO Academy and its UNWTO.QUEST Certification. UNWTO.QUEST is a quality certification for Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) that endorses and enhances excellence in organisations’ Leadership, Execution and Governance. 65 DCT Abu Dhabi employees and 35 stakeholders were enrolled in this programme, attending 120 hours of training over four months in 2023. The training encompassed critical topics such as tourism strategic leadership, governance and execution.

Among the expert speakers, Carol Hay, Chief Tourism Officer at McKenzie Gayle Limited and university lecturer in business and tourism management, addressed the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the context of destination competitiveness. Dr. Svetla Ivanova Stoyanova-Bozhkova, Principal Academic in Strategic Management, led the keynote address on the role of sustainability in enhancing destination competitiveness. Through her presentation, she emphasised the need for responsible tourism practices and effective strategies for developing human resources within the tourism sector.

In a preceding event, DCT Abu Dhabi and UNWTO Academy also introduced the UNWTO.TedQual, a quality certification system for universities and training centres seeking recognition from the UNWTO for the quality of their tourism education, training, and research programmes. The evaluation criteria are designed to assess the effectiveness of academic systems within the education or training programmes, as well as align with the needs of the students and their integration into the tourism industry.

The launch saw the attendance of representatives from the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), Dr. Adriaan De Man, Professor and Chair of the Tourism and Heritage Department, and Dr. Jue Huang, Associate Professor in the same department. The event served as a platform to announce the Certification of UAEU’s BA in Tourism Studies and to provide insights into the institution’s successful practices.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae

High costs and lack of standards hinder sustainable tourism certification, requiring government support to overcome these challenges.

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Content: They stressed that the high cost and lack of uniform standards highlighted the challenges.
Hotel officials: COP28 supports sustainability in the UAE ’ s hospitality sector
As the UAE hosts COP28, the next generation of guests are choosing sustainable hotels and looking for brands to focus on, hotel officials said, noting that national strategies, including UAE Vision 2021, Dubai Urban Plan 2040, and providing companies with a set of clear guidelines and incentives to align their activities with sustainability practices, encourage the industry to take steps. We are committed to sustainability in our operations.
They explained to Emirates Today that many hotels are currently implementing many sustainability standards, pointing out that there are challenges facing sustainability efforts, most notably the high cost and lack of unified standards to measure sustainability practices, pointing out that the challenges can be met through government support, cooperation at the sector level, educating guests, directing resources and funding effectively, and building sustainable partnerships with suppliers and stakeholders.
Fahd Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels & Products Middle East & Africa, said: “There is an increasing demand for sustainability concepts in hotels in the UAE, in conjunction with the upcoming hosting of COP28, especially that guests are actively looking for brands that focus on this aspect, in light of the growing awareness of environmental and sustainability issues, which made them biased in their choices towards sustainable hotels. ”
“Millennium Hotels & Resorts has set its sustainability vision for the current year, which includes rationalizing and improving energy and water efficiency in hotel facilities to reduce consumption, reduce environmental impact, reduce the use of plastic, replace it with environmentally friendly alternatives, obtain ISO14001 certification for responsible environmental practices, and support local SMEs to provide local products, ” he said. It has developed a comprehensive strategy to achieve greater sustainability goals. ”
He stressed that the main challenges facing sustainability efforts are to improve sustainability efforts and reduce environmental impact, while maintaining the provision of high quality services and continuous support to guests and staff, noting that these challenges can be overcome by applying best practices, effectively directing resources and funding, and building sustainable partnerships with suppliers and stakeholders.
Imad Ramzi, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah and Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira, said: “There is an increasing demand for sustainability practices in hotels in the UAE, and the new generation of travelers is moving towards a sustainable experience and looking for hotels that are committed to social and environmental responsibility, which encourages hotels to adopt sustainability initiatives to attract this category of guests. ”
Ramzi explained that “the Group is currently implementing sustainability initiatives in its hotels, including effective resource management such as the use of lighting technology and smart air conditioning to reduce energy consumption in rooms and public spaces in hotels and car parks, recycling waste, providing sustainable consumables, dealing directly with companies that produce products locally, reducing the use of paper in official transactions, and supporting digital transactions. ” Partnering with sustainable suppliers.
He stressed that « the UAE in general, and Dubai in particular, is working hard to develop sustainability standards in all areas, including hotels, which facilitates adherence to the application of these standards », pointing out that the cost is a challenge, as some institutions raise the prices of products for sustainability, which affects the total cost of hotels.
Sophie Blundell, General Manager of The H Dubai, said: “Sustainability is no longer an additional option for business plans, but a prerequisite for long-term success, ” noting that“ the hotel industry can apply sustainability standards, in collaboration with stakeholders, invest in research and development, and keep up with the latest technologies and trends in sustainability. ”
She noted that there is a growing trend to adopt sustainability principles in the hospitality sector, in light of increasing global awareness of environmental issues and national strategies, including UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Urban Plan 2040, which emphasize the importance of sustainable development, and provide companies with a set of clear guidelines and incentives to align their activities with sustainability practices.
The hotel has developed a project based on reducing waste, reuse and recycling, reducing water consumption, conserving energy, adopting refillable water bottles as an alternative to plastic water bottles in restaurants and meeting rooms, and installing a water purification system to provide a more sustainable alternative to bottled water.
She stressed that the lack of common standards to measure sustainability practices is one of the main challenges facing the hospitality industry.
Paul Bridger, Corporate Director of Operations at Rove Hotels, said: “The UAE has played a leading role in the implementation of sustainability standards in the hospitality sector, especially with many hotels adopting green initiatives and working to obtain the most important certificates and accreditations in sustainability. ” The group pledged to plant a tree for each room booked during COP28 and to plant at least 28,000 trees by the end of the year.
My hotel ’ s commitment to sustainability
“We are witnessing the adoption of sustainability concepts in hotels, in line with global trends and the UAE ’ s vision for a more sustainable future, ” said Nicolas Shamaa, General Manager of Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa, referring to the implementation of several initiatives to reduce the use of water and energy, and obtaining a sustainability certificate certified by the International Organization for Standardization.
He stressed that there are challenges related to sustainable procurement, which can be overcome by purchasing goods and services from local suppliers who adhere to sustainability standards.
Diversifying the economy
“The UAE is diversifying its economy and adopting sustainable practices in various sectors, and the hotel sector is keen to implement sustainability standards, ” said Fadi Amash, Director General of Grand Millennium Al Wahda, noting that with the UAE hosting global events such as COP28, there is growing awareness of the importance of sustainability, which contributes to saving costs in the long term, attracting more environmentally conscious guests, reducing carbon footprint, and conserving water and energy.
He pointed out that the hotel is keen to implement many activities and initiatives to promote sustainability, such as the use of energy saving lamps, the regular maintenance of air conditioners, the use of environmentally friendly cleaning materials, and the possibility of installing smart energy management systems, which can sense the vacancy of rooms and adjust temperatures accordingly.

Advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and blockchain can enhance sustainable tourism management by optimizing resources and reducing environmental impact.

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Content: Are Smart Cities the Key to a Sustainable Future?

The combination of IoT technology and the recent incredible gains made in AI has brought the potential of smart cities to a new level. The challenges of creating truly smart cities have always been immense, but these advancements have opened up unprecedented opportunities to overcome these challenges.

But, are smart cities the key to a sustainable future?

Currently, over half the world’s population live in cities. This figure is predicted to grow to 70% by 2050 according to a report from the World Bank. This fact alone demonstrates that cities need to become more sustainable.

Let’s take a dive into the world of smart cities and see whether they are the key to a cleaner and greener urban environment.

Defining Smart Cities

Let’s start at the beginning with a quick and simple definition of a smart city:

A smart city is an urban environment that utilizes technology and connectivity to improve the quality of life for residents, optimize resource management, and enhance sustainability.

Regarding this article, the key part of this definition is “enhance sustainability.” To put it another way, smart cities are efficient cities and efficiency is a key part of sustainability.

Here are some of the key features of smart cities:

  • Advanced Infrastructure: This can include features like real-time traffic management, smart street lighting, and sensor networks for efficient waste management.
  • Smart Decision Making: The ability of AI to churn through huge amounts of data in real-time can be utilized to monitor energy consumption, water usage and even help with development planning.
  • Smart Buildings: Eco-friendly smart housing and commercial buildings that use sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and automated controls are central to the smart city concept.
  • Sustainable Transport Systems: Shuffling millions of people about sustainably is one of the major challenges of creating truly smart cities. Solutions like EV charging infrastructure, cycle lanes, smart ticketing, and Mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms are all helping on the journey to a sustainable transport solution.

The integration of these solutions along with others like smart energy grids, renewable energy integration, and even concepts like vertical farming, will all help the city of the future adhere to sustainable models.

Components of a Smart City

This all sounds very good on paper, but what do you need to create a smart city? The good news is that there is nothing overly complex or financially unfeasible about the core components of a smart city.

Most of the technologies already exist and the rapid evolution of technologies like generative AI has brought the goal within easier reach.

Here are some of the key components of smart cities:

  • LP-WANs (Low-Powered Wide Area Networks): This could be described as the backbone of a smart city. LP-WANS enable the communication of low-powered smart devices over large distances.
  • IoT (Internet of Things): IoT devices like smart meters, streetlights, parking sensors, and waste management sensors can all help to make our cities and resource usage more sustainable.
  • CloudBased Cameras: These can be used to monitor traffic in real-time and optimize traffic flow. Cloud-based, IP security camera systems are also a valuable security asset that can help keep smart cities safer.
  • AIPowered Data Analytics: Intelligent decision-making can be enhanced and automated with the integration of AI systems that can rapidly analyze and extract meaningful insights from multiple and live data sources.

This list is far from comprehensive, instead, it represents the “bare bones” of what constitutes a smart city. But remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and cities are not going to become smart overnight. But starting with a basic infrastructure as listed above creates a smart city framework that can rapidly develop and evolve.

The Challenges of Creating a Smart City

The last section may have made it sound like all we need to do is plug in some hardware and “voila” – a smart city! Unfortunately, it is never going to be this easy. There are plenty of challenges to face on the road to smart urban environments:

  • Infrastructure Integration: Integrating various existing infrastructure systems and legacy technologies poses challenges in interoperability and compatibility.
  • Data Privacy and Security: Protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure communication between devices and systems is paramount.
  • Financial Investment: Developing and implementing smart city solutions require significant funding and long-term financial commitments.
  • Digital Divide: Bridging the gap in access to technology and connectivity to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all residents.

These are a few of the challenges that we need to face if our cities are to become truly smart. However, the technology to enable this is progressing at an astonishing rate and with the necessary will and the pressing need for it to happen, we have the potential to overcome these challenges and transform our cities into truly smart and sustainable urban environments.

Sustainable Cities: Paving the Way to a Greener Future

The technology is there, the need is there – all that remains is the will and of course, the money. Smart cities are going to happen – It was always going to once the technology matched the requirements. So, the only question that remains is – When?

The momentum towards smart cities is undeniable. The potential benefits of enhanced sustainability, improved quality of life, and optimized resource management have made smart cities an inevitable part of our future. The advancements in IoT, AI, and data analytics have brought us closer than ever to realizing this vision.

With 70% of the world’s population destined to be city dwellers, the smartening of our cities needs to be a priority.

Hotels can reduce energy use through digital transformation, as they consume 50% more energy than residential buildings.

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Content: Monday, March 11, 2024

Tech firm cites need for digital transformation in PH hotels

Energy management and digital automation firm Schneider Electric has emphasized during the recent Hotel + Accommodation Industry Summit Philippines 2024 that sustainability plays a crucial role in the hotel and accommodation industry, as 2 out of 3 travelers now prefer establishments that engage in green practices.

This growing preference for sustainable establishments coincides with the expected return of international travel to pre-pandemic levels this 2024, which is estimated to grow by 2% above 2019 figures, according to the first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of the Year.

Schneider Electric’s segment head of East Asia and Japan Madhu Menon explained that digital transformation could enable the industry to continue offering comfort and convenience to travelers while reducing its energy consumption.

“Travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint,” Menon said as he emphasized that “this shift in priorities underscores the need for hotels to embrace innovative solutions that seamlessly integrate sustainability and efficiency into their operations.”

He added that hotels consume 50% more energy than similar-sized residential buildings despite having only 55% occupancy rates on average.

This integration can be accomplished with end-to-end digital solutions that Schneider Electric offers through EcoStruxure IT, the company’s Internet of Things (IoT) platform that provides energy management and automation solutions.

Specifically, this technology features the Asset Advisor and Building Advisor, offering cloud-based analytics to monitor and control their energy use in real time, identify savings opportunities, and reduce their overall carbon footprint.

Meanwhile, its Building Operation and Power Monitoring Expert provides data-driven insights to inform hotels about possible problems and diagnostics and determine areas for maintenance– decreasing downtime and guest complaints.

To future-proof hotels in the Philippines, Schneider Electric identified four focus areas where end-to-end solutions could be utilized:

  1. Reducing carbon footprint by adopting greener sources of energy,
  2. Improving the efficiency of operations and energy use as well as the productivity of staff,
  3. Ensuring continuity and agility in operations, and
  4. Delivering exceptional guest and staff experiences

    As the Philippine hospitality industry gears up for a travel boom, embracing sustainability and digitalization is no longer an option but a necessity. Schneider Electric stands ready to partner with hotels on their journey toward a greener, more efficient, and future-proof business.

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IoT platforms and data-driven insights can help hotels predict maintenance needs and reduce their carbon footprint.

Stakeholder collaboration is necessary for a sustainable industry transformation through initiatives like reducing plastic waste and promoting zero-waste tourism.

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Content: Nearly 90% of Chinese consumers attach importance to sustainable tourism, but lack awareness of practices and costs
How can the industry collaborate to help the tourism industry move towards a "sustainable" future?
Business 14: 41 2023 / 03 / 20
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Hotel group Accor, travel service provider Ctrip Group and global management consulting firm McKinsey recently released a white paper entitled “China ’ s Eco-Tourism Pathway ”, which explores the environmental impact of China ’ s tourism industry, analyzes Chinese tourists ’ perceptions of sustainable development, and finally makes recommendations on what China ’ s key tourism stakeholders need to do to promote“ sustainable ” tourism.
[ESG Carbon Neutralization] More than 70% of Hong Kong enterprises are not familiar with carbon neutrality knowledge to promote carbon neutrality for brand image
China ’ s largest travel market in the world by 2032
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, China is expected to have the world ’ s largest travel market by 2032, which was already one of the largest before the pandemic.
The white paper analysis found that China ’ s tourism industry has a huge impact on the environment, accounting for about 6-8% of China ’ s total carbon emissions in 2019.
McKinsey ’ s data shows that Chinese travelers value their environmental impact and are already looking for sustainable alternatives, but the report found that they may need more help understanding where to get them. Ctrip found that nearly 90 percent (85 percent) of Chinese travelers rated travel sustainability as important or very important, while 60 percent were concerned about climate change.
Consumers agree that they are not used to paying
The report also found that Chinese consumers are not used to paying extra for sustainable travel.
Therefore, it is necessary to provide guidance to travelers on the cost of sustainability and highlight the industry ’ s efforts to improve the supply of sustainable products.
This will realistically demonstrate the burden to be shared and show that price increases are only short-term measures, thus increasing willingness to pay.
In response to this, the report provides recommendations on what travelers can do to make sustainable travel and empower consumers to make decisions, including booking sustainable travel options through accredited service providers, spending more time in one destination, and self-cultivating sustainable habits, such as reducing the frequency of changing towels or bed sheets and rejecting single-use plastic products.
However, passenger behavior is only the first consideration highlighted in the report.
To achieve long-term sustainability, travel product suppliers should be the first to initiate initiatives and have a responsibility to change the mindset of travelers.
Educating and supporting travellers more than asking for
The report also makes a series of recommendations for the hotel industry to support Chinese travelers ’ understanding of sustainable tourism, inspire changes in their behavior, and ultimately support the industry ’ s move towards a “net positive benefit model ”, that is,“ pay more than take ”.
These include using technology platforms to highlight online sustainable travel options, using labels to ensure travellers understand the environmental impact of their behaviour, developing incentives to encourage sustainable behaviour, and training staff to adopt sustainable thinking.
While increasing visitor awareness and the willingness to choose sustainable solutions, coupled with the adoption of more sustainable practices by individual travel providers, may help China ’ s tourism industry “win fast ” in terms of sustainable impact, lasting sustainability improvements will require a concerted effort from the entire industry.
The report concludes by calling on the hospitality industry to take action and work together to achieve a sustainable transformation of the industry in China.
This collaborative project creates a starting point for this collective thinking as a resource available to tourists and industry participants to work together to achieve positive change.
Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of Accor Group, said: “No one can make an impactful change alone. Transformation requires everyone to work together. Responsible travel in China and around the world can connect all people, support local communities, protect biodiversity, and share and foster more sustainable habits. ”
According to Jonathan Woetzel, senior partner at McKinsey & Company and president of McKinsey Global Institute, “China ’ s tourism industry is large enough to take the lead in driving the industry ’ s sustainability. As travelers return to adventure, every step of their journey provides the opportunity to make choices and take concrete actions that immediately reduce their environmental footprint (or carbon footprint). ”“ It ’ s not just the responsibility of travellers. Achieving long-term change requires a collaborative effort among all the players in the travel industry, from hotels and travel agencies to green investors and technology providers. ”
【 Greater Bay Area Tourism 】 Greater Bay Area Visitors Return to McKinsey, Hong Kong After Customs Clearance: A Pan-Greater Bay Area Business Strategy
Editor-in-Chief: Yang Jiaxuan
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Evaluating sustainable tourism's economic benefits helps stakeholders make informed decisions that can positively impact the environment, economy, and local communities.

Title:

Content: HOMEPAGE

From where you go to what you do, experts share how to travel the world without destroying it

  • Traveling sustainably is about making intentional choices to serve your destination and planet well.
  • We asked experts how to make these choices when planning a trip to be as sustainable as possible.
  • This article is part of "Better Me," a series about improving your lifestyle and helping society through sustainable efforts and eco-consciousness.

Sustainable travel can feel like an oxymoron — as Justin Francis, the cofounder and CEO of Responsible Travel, a UK-based travel company that evaluates trips and vacation providers, told Insider.

The travel industry can create jobs, or it can lead to over-tourism that lowers residents' quality of life. Flights emit harmful emissions, but transport travelers to destinations where they can support local economies and participate in positive, nature-based tourism. Lodging accommodations can boost the local economy, or price residents out of their homes.

But Francis believes people can travel "in a way that not only reduces harm but actively maximizes the benefits, for both planet and people."

Five other sustainable travel experts who spoke with Insider agree and say there are actions travelers can take to lower their negative impact, support the destinations they're visiting, and have an overall better trip. They suggest considering every aspect of your trip — from where you go to how you get there — as you plan to travel more sustainably.

Kelley Louise, the executive director and founder of Impact Travel Alliance, a nonprofit centered on informing travelers to help improve the world, told Insider that traveling sustainably takes practice and being an imperfect traveler is better than not trying.

As Louise said, "It's about asking, 'How can you make little decisions that add up over time and have a positive impact on the world?'"

If you're looking for a place to start, here's what the experts Insider spoke with recommend.

First, choose a destination with the planet in mind

Go off the beaten path

Some of the experts Insider spoke with suggest skipping top tourist destinations and opting for under-the-radar spots.

"By seeking out the less-visited destinations, you will be helping to spread the economic benefits of tourism more widely and helping to avoid the negative impacts that over-tourism has on local residents," Georgina Davies — the communications manager for The Travel Foundation, a group that advocates for sustainable tourism — told Insider.

Paloma Zapata agrees. The CEO of Sustainable Travel International — an organization that works with local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to provide sustainable travel opportunities — also recommends visiting a hidden gem. If you're going to Greece, for instance, you could skip Mykonos and head to an island like Anafi or Ios with fewer tourists.

Once you've picked your destination, Davies encourages travelers to visit the region's national parks and protected areas. Often these places have entrance fees, which support conservation efforts.

Choose a destination that embraces sustainability

Jessica Blotter, CEO and cofounder of public benefit corporation Kind Travel, told Insider she looks for destinations with tourism boards that have a dedicated sustainable travel section on their website.

She recommends avoiding areas where sustainable transportation and lodging are hard to find, and "where access to nature and the outdoors is limited."

Vacation during shoulder season

Tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain without hordes of people around or exploring Niagara Falls in the winter isn't just beneficial to travelers; experts say it also supports sustainability.

Visiting destinations during shoulder seasons "spreads the benefits of tourism locally across the year and lightens the burden of over-tourism in popular destinations," Francis said. His company, Responsible Travel, has a guide that outlines the best time to visit certain destinations

Zapata added that you're also more likely to have a stress-free and special vacation if you're visiting when there are fewer crowds. "It could be even more enriching," she said. "When you're on a beach or on a sailboat and it's just surrounded by masses of people, maybe that's not the best experience."

Visit fewer places for longer

One way to travel more responsibly is to visit fewer places for longer periods of time. For example, instead of spending a week in four European countries, plan a 10-day trip to one or two.

"Fewer but longer trips mean fewer air miles, more money in local hands, and you'll have a more relaxing trip, too," Francis said. "If you can, keep shorter trips close to home or travel by land or sea." He added that these modes of travel can be an adventure in themselves, and allow you to "see so much more of a destination."

If you must travel a long distance, Blotter recommends stretching the trip as much as possible to maximize your experience. "Booking multiple, long-haul trips per year is not sustainable or carbon-friendly," she said.

Consider how you get there

Evaluate the distance for the most sustainable way to get there

The first step in deciding how to responsibly get to your destination is considering the number of people traveling and the distance you're going.

Besides biking and walking, trains are typically one of the most sustainable ways to travel, Zapata said. If your destination is accessible by train, consider that.

If you're debating whether it's more sustainable to fly or drive, Zapata said it comes down to the distance.

"A lot of times trains are going to be more energy and carbon efficient," she said. "But when it comes to a car, there comes a moment when flying is actually more carbon efficient than driving when you're talking about very long distances."

Calculators like the ones offered by the International Civil Aviation Organization and Environmental Defense Fund can help travelers map out the least carbon-intensive way to get from A to B.

If you need to fly, opt for nonstop routes and travel in economy

Flying will likely be the most unsustainable aspect of your trip. Aviation makes up about 2% of global carbon emissions and 80% of a vacation's carbon footprint comes from the flight, according to National Geographic.

Experts suggest thinking about how much you should fly in a year. For example, maybe you take one international flight a year and prioritize having the rest of your trips close to home, Louise said.

But no matter where you jet off to, experts recommend flying nonstop in economy.

"When booking long-distance plane travel, always choose a direct flight with no layovers," Blotter said. "Direct flights use less carbon dioxide than connecting flights."

Additionally, by flying in economy, as some of the experts Insider spoke with pointed out, you maximize the number of people a flight can carry by taking up less space.

Ultimately, though, the best thing you can do is reduce your carbon footprint during your trip.

Experts like Louise and Gregory Miller, the executive director of the international nonprofit Center for Responsible Travel, agree that carbon offsets act more like a Band-Aid than a solution to sustainable travel. But if they do decide to purchase carbon offsets, which reduce or remove emissions to compensate for those made during a trip, Miller suggests purchasing through a reliable, vetted program. Groups like Zapata's Sustainable Travel say they invest people's money into carbon-reducing projects centered on clean energy and biodiversity.

Think about how you pack

Pack light

The simplest advice when it comes to being a sustainable packer is to pack less, Zapata said. "Travel light," she said.
"You don't need 20 shoes to travel."

Blotter agrees and says that by packing lighter, you'll reduce carbon emissions. That's because the lighter the aircraft, train, car, or boat, the less energy is needed.

Louise added that by packing fewer items and using a carry-on, you'll get through security faster and avoid the hassle of checking a bag.

Pack reusable items

Francis suggests adding the items you use at home to your packing list. That might include a reusable water bottle, a bag for shopping, and utensils to avoid plastic cutlery.

Louise acknowledges that it might not be feasible for every traveler to carry a reusable water bottle, so she urges travelers to consider what other meaningful swaps they could make. For example, Louise said she swapped liquid shampoo and conditioner for shampoo and conditioner bars a few vacations back. The bars are lighter than liquid soaps, which means they save carbon emissions during transportation. Plus, many are packaged in recyclable paper instead of plastic.

The switch became permanent in Louise's daily life, she said, adding that it made traveling easier since she didn't have to worry about leaks or liquids at airport security. "It's a cool example of how we can look for more sustainable experiences that are also better travel experiences," she said. "Plus it opens our eyes to new habits that can help us become more conscious consumers as well."

Pack brands you support

If you're doing some pre-vacation shopping, Louise recommends buying from brands that place sustainability at the forefront of their business.

"If you're supporting corporations and brands that are working on sustainability as well, then that's going to move the needle and create change a lot quicker than we could as individuals," she said.

For tropical getaways, pack reef-safe sunscreen

If you're heading to Aruba or planning a diving trip in Belize, experts say travelers should ensure reef-safe sunscreen is on their packing lists.

"Sunscreen can be very damaging to the environment and not everybody knows," Zapata said.

Ingredients in everyday sunscreen can harm both coral reefs and local wildlife, according to the National Ocean Service. Look for a reef-safe sunscreen that lacks harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, nano titanium dioxide, and nano zinc oxide.

Where you stay matters, too

Look into a hotel's claims about sustainability

Between countless certification programs and eco-friendly branding, experts agree that it can be tricky trying to evaluate whether or not a hotel is actually contributing to a destination.

When researching different accommodations, look for specifics beyond being "eco-friendly" and giving up plastic straws, Miller says. He suggests looking for hotels with written policies about how they work with local communities, prevent food waste, and help environmental initiatives like reforestation and supporting local dive sites.

If they don't have that information, Louise urges travelers to ask questions: "If they are authentically sustainable, they'll be excited to answer them."

Blotter encourages travelers to choose accommodation options that are upfront about their environmental efforts.

"Hotels that are truly eco-friendly should have a sustainability statement and clearly stated initiatives visible on their website," Blotter said. "While sustainability certifications are great and make it easier for travelers to identify sustainable lodging, not all hotels embracing eco-friendly practices will boast such certifications."

Blotter said to look for certifications from organizations that look into the foundation and practices of locations, businesses, and facilities to see if they meet their standards for sustainability and environmentalism. Some of these include the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, Certified B Corporation, and Green Globe, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and WELL Building Standard.

Although some certifications indicate a hotel is sustainable, Zapata and Miller said guests shouldn't book solely based on certifications since they can be costly for smaller resorts and hotels to acquire. "If they've made a commitment to the communities, to the destination, and they understand that they're part of the community that is what's important," Miller said.

Once you arrive, Zapata said guests should look for evidence that their accommodation is following the claims it makes. Speak to housekeeping staff, check in with chefs about the food they're serving, and see if you get new towels each morning — if you do, you could help save water by skipping this service.

Stay at mom-and-pop hotels and inns

Picking a locally owned bed-and-breakfast over an Airbnb or big hotel is going to have a more positive impact on the local community, some of the experts Insider spoke with said.

"Short-term Airbnb-type holiday rentals might feel convenient, but they're having a devastating impact on some popular destinations — pricing people out of their homes and wiping out whole communities," Francis said. "Consider opting instead for a local homestay, B&B or local-owned hotel."

Make smart decisions throughout your stay

Use public transportation

If possible, experts suggest skipping a rental car. Instead, turn to the destination's public transportation.

"Don't discount your travel in the destination," Francis said. "Try and avoid internal flights, and consider ditching the private car or tour bus. There are loads of great human-powered, local-guided tours around — by foot, bike, or even kayak."

Eat local foods

Besides the flight to your destination, food waste will likely be the second-largest contributor to your vacation's carbon footprint, according to National Geographic.

"We traditionally don't think of sustainable tourism as something like, 'Oh, I can lay on the beach and have a cocktail, and that could have a positive impact on the world,'" Louise said. But if you think about where your food comes from and the story behind that, it can have a positive impact, she added.

That means seeking ingredients that are grown nearby instead of shipped across the country and checking to make sure restaurants are hiring locals and paying them fair wages. By evaluating restaurants on these items, you'll likely get "fresher and better foods that are unique to that destination," Louise said.

Seek off-the-beaten-path activities

Most experts agree that when it comes to exploring a destination, it's worth turning to locals for advice. That might mean joining a local Facebook group, sparking a conversation on a public bus, or finding a community-based tourism program.

"Look for ways to seek out local voices and to understand how they want their destination seen," Louise said. By talking to locals, you're likely to avoid contributing to over-tourism and have a more unique experience, she added.

Another way you can approach activities is by centering your plans around a cause you and your group care about, such as ocean conservation or LGBTQ rights, Louise said.

Once you've settled on a topic, look at how your actions and the activities you choose can support that cause. For example, you might eat at restaurants owned by diverse staff or seek voluntourism opportunities to protect a nearby beach.

Blotter recommends avoiding experiences that use animals as entertainment like elephant rides, and looking for charity-run activities instead.

When you're back from the activity, whether it was a volunteer job or a locally-recommended hike, Miller said travelers should "brag about it." He encourages people who are traveling responsibly to post about their experience and use word-of-mouth to inspire others.

Buy local

Pass on the manufactured magnets, mass-produced T-shirts, and generic keychains. Instead, Zapata said travelers should search for items that are unique and crafted by locals.

"If you're going to buy a memento, buy something that's actually made there," she said. That way you ensure the money spent on the souvenir is directly supporting the community.

While all of these decisions you make as an individual matter, Miller says that ultimately "the solution to everything is to get governments and major corporations to change and reduce their emissions period."

According to Miller, that's something travelers can do in the voting booth that can go a long way.

Better Me tips for sustainable living

Slide through the following cards to read more expert advice on sustainable living. Then check out the rest of the stories from Insider's Better Me series.

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The green transformation of tourism benefits the environment and economy by promoting biodiversity, improving living standards, and creating jobs.

Title:

Content: News
Promoting the Green Transformation of Tourism to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
Vietnam Tourism: Promoting Green Transformation and Sustainable Development Forum was held in Hanoi on the morning of April 12.
This is an event within the framework of the Vietnam International Tourism Fair (VITM).
Vietnam Tourism: Promoting Green Transformation and Sustainable Development Forum was held in Hanoi on the morning of Dec. 412.
This is an event within the framework of the Vietnam International Tourism Fair (VITM).
The forum was divided into two sessions: “Green Transformation Awareness ” and“ Realizing Green Transformation Solutions for Tourism ”.
Participants discussed the green transformation of tourism, measures and responsibilities, and the participation of all parties to develop Vietnam's tourism industry into a green economy, circular economy industry, improve the status and growth of enterprises and the living standards of millions of workers.
He Van Chao, deputy director of the National Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, Sports and Tourism, pointed out that the green tourism trend of green, quality and health care is becoming a priority choice for many tourists.
Green is not only a color, but also the greening process of thinking and action, and thus the administrative green culture.
In a clear recognition of this, the new tourism industry has green purposes, green products and green services.
Vietnam Tourism Association President Vu Se Binh stressed that tourism has become an important economic industry in Vietnam, and is expected to contribute more than 6.4% of GDP in 2024.
Due to the impact of climate change, the transition to sustainable development is the only way.
The green transformation of tourism brings benefits to the environment, promotes biodiversity conservation, improves the living standards of tourism practitioners, and promotes economic growth.
At the forum, Patrick Harvemann, Deputy Chief Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, said that the green transformation process of tourism in Vietnam needs to focus on four major issues: green planning, effective destination management, zero waste and low-carbon tourism, and nature-based sustainable tourism.
He also said that many places have begun the process of tourism "greening", which has been carried out for many years in the capital of Guangnan Province and Gusudao County of Guangning Province to reduce the use of single-use plastic products, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental management.
Based on the “Reducing Plastic Waste in Tourism in Vietnam ” project jointly implemented by the Vietnam Tourism Association and UNDP, it has started to promote the reduction of tourism waste and the management of plastic waste.
Participants also believe that it is necessary to achieve tourism development in the direction of green growth, while promoting technological innovation, efficient use of energy, increasing the proportion of renewable energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the same time, strengthen the management of tourism destinations, improve and effectively bring into play tourism development, digital transformation policies, effectively develop development resources, and ensure the success of the greening process.
In addition, the parties concerned need to develop responsible tourism types, create jobs and share benefits with the community, implement green tourism types, promote tourism consumption and green and sustainable shopping, etc.
Top


In Egyptian mythology, cats were considered sacred and associated with the goddess Bastet.

Cats were worshiped as gods in ancient Egypt due to their significant spiritual connections to the culture.

The ancient Egyptians associated cats with strength and protection, believing they provided it.

In Egypt, cats were revered as defenders of home and family.

Cats had a sacred role in protecting homes and owners, in addition to their practical uses.

Cats were revered in ancient Egyptian culture, associated with magic and the goddess Bastet, and were even placed in temples.

Bastet, often depicted as a cat, was believed to protect humans and drive away evil spirits, symbolizing auspiciousness.

In ancient Egyptian culture, cats were highly valued, and their death was mourned by families, but there is no evidence they shaved their eyebrows as a sign of mourning.

In ancient Egyptian culture, cats symbolized well-being, joy, love, and fertility, and were nicknamed "sunny eye" for their nocturnal vision.

Mummification emphasized the divine status of cats and other animals in ancient Egyptian society.

The mummification of cats suggests that ancient Egyptians believed they would play an important role in the afterlife.

Goddess Bastet, daughter of the sun god Ra, was associated with cats, emphasizing their significance in ancient Egyptian mythology.

Cats were considered signs of ancient Egyptian culture and were associated with power.

In ancient Egypt, there is no recorded practice of shaving eyebrows to mourn cats or other animals.

The burial process for pets, including cats, was complex in ancient Egyptian society.

Cats were considered symbols of well-being, joy, love, and fertility in ancient Egyptian culture.

The Egyptians believed that gods could take the form of a cat, strengthening the spiritual connection between cats and the people.

There is no evidence that ancient Egyptians shaved their eyebrows to mourn a deceased family cat.

In Egyptian mythology, cats were considered sacred and associated with the goddess Bastet.

Title:

Content: As before, cats were used to ward off evil spirits: try it yourself
Where did the idea that cats ward off evil spirits come from?
1: 39
Since ancient times, cats have been famous for their mystery and special abilities.
In the world of folklore and legends, they often act as protectors against evil spirits and evil forces.
In antiquity and the Middle Ages it was believed that cats have a special sacred gift that helps them protect their homes and their owners from unfavorable energies.
In Egyptian mythology, cats were considered sacred animals associated with the goddess Bastet.
They were depicted as defenders of the home, as well as patrons of the family.
In medieval Europe, cats were often associated with magic and witchcraft, leading to their persecution during the Inquisition.
However, among the peoples of Scandinavia and Great Britain, cats were often seen as a symbol of protection from evil spirits.
In Scandinavian mythology, cats were considered companions of warriors and guides of souls of the dead on Asgard.
They were also supposed to be able to see hidden worlds and predict the future.
In the English folklore tradition, the black cat was considered a symbol of good luck and protection from evil spirits.
In medieval England, it was even believed that the owners of black cats have a special charm and protection from misfortune.
In Scotland, it was believed that if a black cat visits a house, it brings good luck and well-being to the family.
Traditions and legends about the protective power of cats are preserved in the modern world.
Many people still consider their furry friends not only faithful companions, but also mystical guardians, able to scare away evil spirits and bring harmony to the house.
Author Ilya Panferov
Ilya Panferov — freelance correspondent of Pravda.Ru

Cats were worshiped as gods in ancient Egypt due to their significant spiritual connections to the culture.

Title:

Content: Home » Celebrating our fellow felines

Celebrating our fellow felines

by admin

Every August 8, animal lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Cat Day, a day dedicated to honoring and recognizing the presence and special role that cats have in our lives, this holiday has become an opportunity to highlight the importance of caring for and respecting our feline friends, as well as to raise awareness of the need to protect and preserve their well-being.

The role of the Cat in the History of Culture

Cats have played a significant role in various cultures and historical moments. From ancient Egypt, where they were considered symbols of divinity and associated with the goddess Bastet, to medieval Europe, where they were considered guardians of homes and farms due to their ability to keep rodent populations in check, cats have been around. present in human life in different ways.

In the Middle Ages, however, cats also faced hard times when they were linked with superstition and witchcraft, leading to persecution and slaughter. Fortunately, over time, the relationship between humans and cats has evolved towards a more harmonious and beneficial coexistence for both parties.

Education and care of cats

Photo: Pet City

Training a cat requires patience, understanding and knowledge. Here are some key tips to ensure your cat thrives happy and healthy.

Provide a suitable environment, make sure your home is safe and comfortable for your cat. Provide places for him to rest and hide, as well as toys and environmental enrichment to stimulate his mind.

Food and hydration, offers a balanced diet appropriate to the needs of your cat. It often provides fresh, clean water.

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Litter box, keep a clean and accessible litter box so your cat can eliminate. Clean the box regularly to avoid health problems and bad smells.

Health problems and bad odors. Socialization and Play Interact and play with your cat daily to keep him physically and mentally active. Play with toys and interaction with other animals can be beneficial

Veterinary Care Schedule regular visits to the vet to make sure your cat is up to date on vaccinations and health checks. This is essential to prevent and detect any medical problem in time.

Hygiene, brush your cat’s coat to keep it clean and reduce the formation of hairballs. Also, take care of their oral health by brushing their teeth or providing dental treats.

Respect and love, each cat has its own personality and needs. He respects his space and his quiet times, and show him love and affection according to his preferences.

fun facts about cats

Courtesy Week The sense of smell, although we don’t talk so much about their sense of smell as about their vision and hearing, cats have a highly developed sense of smell. They use their nose to explore and recognize the world around them. They are amazing, they are excellent jumpers and can jump up to six times their length in a single jump. This is partly due to the unique structure of their hind legs, which gives them great power and flexibility. Mysterious purr, cats are believed to purr not only when they are happy, but also when they are sick or injured. Purring could have healing properties and help in the regeneration of bones and tissues. Cats in space, the first cat to travel to space was named Felicette, also known as ‘Felix’. She was launched by the French Space Agency in 1963 and returned safely. Tail Communication Cats use their tails to communicate. A pricked tail usually indicates confidence and happiness, while a wagging tail could mean the cat is excited or agitated. Born hunters, domestic cats retain their hunting instincts. They can hunt insects, mice and other small animals, which is also a form of exercise and mental stimulation. Exceptional night vision, cats have cells in their eyes called rods, which allow them to see in low light conditions. Their night vision is up to six times better than that of humans.

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The ancient Egyptians associated cats with strength and protection, believing they provided it.

Title:

Content: Pharaonic Monuments: "Secrets" Revealed by "Rare" Mummies of Egyptian Crocodiles
• Mohammed Hamida
• BBC - Cairo
The ancient Egyptian worshiped animals and placed them in the ranks of gods, making them various temples.
Thus, the calf "Apis", the cat "Bess", the jackal and the cobra are all signs and symbols of the ancient Egyptian, he resorted to them to give him strength and protect him from the treachery of nature at times.
Crocodiles represented prestige, strength, invincibility and even fertility, according to sources.
In the Qubat al-Hawa area on the west bank of the Nile in Aswan, some excavations were made in a rock tomb dedicated to major figures during the Middle Kingdom of the ancient Egyptian era, where crocodile mummies were found.
In the Middle Kingdom, crocodile worship spread to Egypt, where the country was in a period of great prosperity.
The central state consisted of the 11th to 13th dynasties, with Egypt as a state with influence in areas from the Syrian coast in the north to Nubia in the south.
But Egypt entered after the thirteenth dynasty in a huge stumbling block, was the prelude to the occupation of the Hyksos for decades, only by the hands of the king Saknin Ra and his sons Kams and Ahmos, where Ahmos completed the task of driving the Hyksos out of the country after the killing of his father and brother.
But the cult of the “alligator god ” did not disappear despite the age of decay that prevailed in the country; it existed even after the end of the dynastic era.
Ten crocodiles in the area of   the Dome of the Air
A team from the University of Chian, Spain, has worked in the Quba al-Hawa area since 2008 in rock tombs, and in 2019 the team revealed 10 crocodiles in good condition of embalming on the West Bank of the Nile.
Alejandro Jiménez, professor of Egyptology at the Spanish University of Jian and director of the excavation project at the Dome of the Hawa, told the BBC that although the linen wraps around these crocodiles had disappeared, the condition of the crocodiles is considered good, which is rare in this region.
Jimenez added that this gave scientists the opportunity to study crocodiles from this era diligently after we found them in good condition, studies were done in museums on the remains of crocodiles, but in our case we studied them in the cemetery.
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Why the crocodile?
The ancient Egyptian worshiped animals, especially those that he could not tame and humiliate for his domestic or foreign works, so he went to sanctify them and put them in the ranks of gods, according to scholars.
The "crocodile god" or what the ancient Egyptians called "Sobek", is an ancient Egyptian god associated with the Nile, and is depicted in the form of a man with the head of a crocodile, or directly in the form of a crocodile, and symbolizes in ancient Egyptian religion power and fertility, and was especially associated with the dangers posed by the Nile with its flood.
But references from some sources confirm that the nicknames given to the "Sobek" were representative of the violent and huge nature of the crocodile, he was called "the one who eats while sleeping", according to the Italian Egyptologist Ida Bresciani.
Sobek was the fertility god of the ancient Egyptians.
Alejandro says some of the crocodiles found in the area of   the Dome of the Hawa are up to three meters long, which raises the question of how to catch and deal with these huge animals.
Alejandro estimated that these animals were left in the sun for a long time, dehydrated and died before the embalming process where we found them.
The report, published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE, indicates that the crocodiles discovered were covered with a layer of bitumen, which is common in the later periods of ancient history.
The magazine says the roof of all the skulls of the Hawa Dome crocodiles is intact, and there are no traces that could be linked to the killing of animals.
She stressed that among the various methods mentioned to kill crocodiles, those that do not leave obvious traces.
Stones in the crocodile's belly.
The manager of the excavation project at the Dome of the Hawa says that the vital organs of the crocodiles were impressively present in the mummies, and that the stomach was not removed as usual when embalming, and it is likely that these crocodiles were buried in the sand and after a while they were covered with bitumen and embalmed as they are.
Alejandro confirms that a number of stones have been found inside the stomach of crocodiles, which is a common practice used by crocodiles to balance them inside the water.
He points out that he has discovered two types of crocodiles, the Nile crocodile and the West African crocodile of different lengths.
The crocodiles were roaming over Egypt with the flood of the Nile, a supernatural force of the ancient Egyptian who feared and was preparing for the great river.
Floods were destroying the habitats of animals living on the banks of the Nile and rats were rushing into the highlands and cobras were killing mice, so the Egyptians revered them and placed them on the crowns of kings.
The crocodile was also a creature too great to satisfy its appetite for a mouse, for example, so during the Nile flood it attacked cows and possibly people.
The Egyptians therefore placed him among the great gods associated with the flood of the Nile.
The Spanish scientist points out that the importance of detection comes from the fact that many of the studies carried out in the past years on crocodile mummies were about the remains of crocodiles that were in museums and not in cemeteries like this case, which gave us a lot of unique information.
Many museums around the world have Egyptian animal mummies and crocodiles among them.
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo has the largest collection of animal mummies, yet the crocodiles discovered are extremely rare in modern fossils.

In Egypt, cats were revered as defenders of home and family.

Cats had a sacred role in protecting homes and owners, in addition to their practical uses.

Title:

Content: The mummy of a pet: why and why did the ancient Egyptians do this?
1: 43
The Egyptians showed special respect for their pets, their love was so great that they wanted these animals to have eternal life.
After death, pets were mummified and went through a complex burial process.
In ancient Egyptian worldview, four-legged and feathered creatures were considered sacred, divine and influencing their destinies.
They occupied an honorable place in the pantheon, and the gods were often depicted with animal heads.
Mummification was an integral part of this religious practice, emphasizing the special status of these creatures in the eyes of the Egyptians.
The Egyptians mummified various animals, believing that their gods could take different forms.
For example, the goddess Bast, the daughter of Ra, was depicted as a cat or a woman with a cat ’ s head.
This goddess symbolized well-being, joy, love and fertility.
The Egyptians especially revered cats for their ability to exterminate rodents, which was critical for preserving grain stocks, then considered valuable as gold.
Cats have also earned the nickname “sunny eye ” due to their ability to see in the dark.
This property made them important symbols in Egyptian mythology.
Archaeological studies conducted at the ancient Egyptian necropolis of Qubbet el-Hawa have uncovered the burial of crocodiles, one of which has been preserved in the form of a practically whole mummy, providing a unique look at the ancient rites and veneration of animals in this culture.
Author Petr Deryabin
Petr Deryabin – journalist, correspondent of Pravda.Ru news service

Cats were revered in ancient Egyptian culture, associated with magic and the goddess Bastet, and were even placed in temples.

Bastet, often depicted as a cat, was believed to protect humans and drive away evil spirits, symbolizing auspiciousness.

Title:

Content: Cat Cold Knowledge ｜ 4 Mysterious Legends of Black Cats Are Black Cats a Symbol of Good Luck or Bad Luck?
Author: Wang Meow Planet
Published: Updated:
Black cats are a symbol of bad luck.
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Take a look at the mysterious legends of the four black cats!
▼ ▼ ▼ The Mysterious Legend of the Black Cat ▼ ▼
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Are black cats really cute?
The black cat looks very mysterious, in fact, super caring and loving, like to stay close to the slave.
A black cat is a tiger cat.
Tiger spotted is a characteristic of cats, not a breed, and can be called a tiger spotted cat with stripes and markings.
Look and see ~ Black cats are not necessarily all black, and some of their hair is brown in the sun!
Black cats are a symbol of auspiciousness in Japan!
Peach Blossom: Single women with black cats can make love smoother!
Black cats are the most powerful.
Black cats are different everywhere.
Taiwan: Unlucky
The older generation thought that the black cat with white feet would jump over the body and the body would rise.
China: Escape from Evil Town
The house is haunted, and black cats are invited to walk around the house to help ward off evil spirits.
Ancient Egypt: The Protector of the Black Cat
The ancient Egyptian goddess "Bast" is a cat's head, and at night will be transformed into a black cat to protect the human body and drive away the evil spirit.
Italy: Death is near.
Legend has it that if a black cat is seen lying on a patient ’ s bed, it means death is near.
Although there are many mysterious legends about black cats, they are actually very cute and close to people!
Further reading: The cat immediately meows after defecating is to invite the cat owner to enjoy it?
5 reasons behind it.
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[This article is reproduced with permission from Wang Meow Planet.]
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In ancient Egyptian culture, cats were highly valued, and their death was mourned by families, but there is no evidence they shaved their eyebrows as a sign of mourning.

In ancient Egyptian culture, cats symbolized well-being, joy, love, and fertility, and were nicknamed "sunny eye" for their nocturnal vision.

Mummification emphasized the divine status of cats and other animals in ancient Egyptian society.

The mummification of cats suggests that ancient Egyptians believed they would play an important role in the afterlife.

Goddess Bastet, daughter of the sun god Ra, was associated with cats, emphasizing their significance in ancient Egyptian mythology.

Cats were considered signs of ancient Egyptian culture and were associated with power.

In ancient Egypt, there is no recorded practice of shaving eyebrows to mourn cats or other animals.

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Content: General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
Praise the ancient Egyptians.
American magazine publishes exciting study on Egyptian crocodile mummies
The American magazine "PLoS ONE" specialized in science and medicine published the results of a new study that included exciting details about the archaeological discovery recently announced in an Egyptian archaeological site and contained the mummies of 10 crocodiles mummified in a unique way praising the efforts of the ancient Egyptians in embalming.
The discovery of the ten mummies inside a tomb at the Dome of the Hawa near Aswan sheds more light on the mummification practices of ancient Egypt.
At first glance, some might think they ’ re looking at living crocodiles swimming in the mud, but they ’ re really just mummies of crocodiles that died about 2,500 years ago.
Crocodiles were preserved in a ritual likely dedicated to honoring Sobek, a fertility god who was worshiped in ancient Egypt and associated with Nile crocodiles.
Details of the exciting discovery were published in the scientific journal PLoS ONE on Wednesday, and it was an adult crocodile of two different species and not as it used to be when mummies of young or young crocodiles were found.
Archaeologists have previously found the remains of other mummified crocodiles, but most of them were young and were not as well as in the new discovery.
Pia de Cooper, an archaeologist at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and co-author of the study, said: "Most of the time we were dealing with the remains of broken parts, but seeing that we have 10 crocodiles in a grave is rare.
In 2018, researchers discovered seven small tombs under a Byzantine-era landfill.
The mummified crocodiles were found in a cemetery, sandwiched between a waste site and four human burials believed to date back to around 2100 BC.
Five of the mummified crocodiles contained only the heads of the animals, while the other five were of varying completeness.
Based on the shape of the skull and the arrangement of the bone plates or scales, the research team hypothesized that the majority of the crocodiles in the cemetery were Crocodylus and the remainder were Crocodylus niloticus.
Salima Ikram, a professor general of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo, who was not involved in the study, said the information provided insight into the nature of the ancient Egyptians' understanding of the distinct behaviors of these two species of crocodiles and how they dealt with them.
"While type 2 can devour you, type 1 is relatively safe and humans can swim with it in the same pool."
The head of the research team, Spanish Egyptologist Jimenez Serrano, said: “The discovery of these mummies offers us new insights into ancient Egyptian religion and how it treated these animals as sacrifices. ”
Crocodiles have played a prominent role in Egyptian culture for thousands of years, not only because of their association with ancient Egyptian gods, but also because they are a source of food and also because their fat is used as a medicine to treat body pain and baldness.
Stuffed animals, including ibis, cats, and baboons, are relatively common finds in Egyptian tombs.

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Content: Archaeologists find the body of a child with 142 dogs

The body of a child and 142 dogs, dated from 1st century BCE to the 1st century AD, has been found in Egypt.

A mummy is seen inside the newly discovered burial site in Minya, Egypt May 13, 2017
(photo credit: REUTERS/MOHAMED ABD EL GHANY)

Archaeologists from the Center for Egyptological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences have discovered the body of an eight-year-old child and 142 dogs buried together in Egypt.

The discovery, made near Cairo, was dated to between the 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE. During this time, the Romans assumed control over Egypt.

Dogs in ancient Egypt

The dogs, 87% of which were puppies, are thought to have died as a result of flooding. The Archaeologists were able to assess that they died simultaneously, with no violence involved. They also found blue clay on the dogs, which was found in reservoirs during that period, supporting the theory that the dogs had drowned.

Despite ancient Egyptians worshipping numerous animals, dogs were not generally believed to be sacred. They were used as pets and for labor. However, some dogs were mummified and buried with their owners. The ancient Egyptians believed that the dog-headed gods Anubis and Upuat were with the souls of the dead in the afterlife. Some dogs were sacrificed to play the role of an amulet in a burial.

The only case to which similarities can be drawn, is the discovery of a child's body with 12 dogs in a cemetery in Hierakonpolis.

Egyptian mummy. (credit: CREATIVE COMMONS)

It is unknown why the boy was buried there. The current theory is that the boy died while caring for the dogs and was buried with them.

Children in ancient Egypt

It is unlikely that the boy and his dogs were executed. According to Egypt Today, children in ancient Egypt were treated well with access to education and were forbidden to learn a trade.

Adding to the mystery, the boy was found with a linen bag over his head. The only other time a body was found with a linen bag covering the head, the person had been executed by an arrow.

The average life span in ancient Egypt, according to the American Society of Research Overseas, is 22.5-25 years for men and 35-37 years for women.

The burial process for pets, including cats, was complex in ancient Egyptian society.

Cats were considered symbols of well-being, joy, love, and fertility in ancient Egyptian culture.

The Egyptians believed that gods could take the form of a cat, strengthening the spiritual connection between cats and the people.

There is no evidence that ancient Egyptians shaved their eyebrows to mourn a deceased family cat.

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Content: General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
General Supervision
Elham Aboul Fath
Editor-in-Chief
Thank you for your patience.
Why do archaeologists expect Saqqara to reveal another history of ancient Egypt?
Saqqara is a region rich in antiquities, as the cemetery of the city of Memphis, the first capital of Egypt, and is currently the center of the Badrasheen Governorate of Giza, Saqqara derives its name from the "Suker" of the Dead.
The ancient Egyptians had buried kings since the first dynasty there, and Saqqara area was dedicated to the burial of the pharaohs of Egypt in that first era, and despite the transfer of the capital of Egypt to Fayoum and then to Thebes and then Sharqiya, more than 22 times, the area of Saqqara and the area of Memphis remained of great importance due to its location and the keenness of all kings and all individuals to have a.
Archaeologist Magdi Shaker explained that the reason for the name of the coward "Popastine" by this name relative to the idol "Bastet" meaning cat, pointing out that the Egyptians in Upper Egypt call the word "dress" on the cat until today.
He pointed to the control of foreigners on the Egyptology flag for a long time, praising the role of the "Egyptian Mission", which has been operating since 2018 in the Saqqara region.
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He added that a cemetery from the Fifth Dynasty was discovered in 2018, and seven other tombs, some from the old state and some from the modern state.
He added that in 2019 the mission discovered a cache of sacred animals, including the idol "cat", and thousands of amulets from "Vines", a material that was used in the manufacture of various amulets.
He added that the most prominent discovery of this mission was during 2020, when they discovered more than 100 closed coffins from the late era, which is one of the ten most important discoveries in the world.
In 2022, the largest crypt was unveiled, containing 150 bronze statues of various deities, and more than 250 coffins, some of which were closed, and one of the coffins "Bardiyya Ahmis", which is 16 meters long, and was placed in the Egyptian Museum.
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Magdy Shaker said that the most beautiful thing in this revelation, the presence of beauty tools for an ordinary Egyptian woman - not of the holders of positions - and this indicates that the Egyptian woman, whether in life or after death, believed in the idea of beauty and beauty and tools and keenness to beauty in the world of the other as she was beautiful in her world.