Expert conference “Tourism in the Adriatic in the Age of Climate Change: From Risks to Solutions” held at the University of Zadar on 7 May 2026.
The conference presented the Regional Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in Tourism in Zadar County, as well as the Local Action Plan for Dugi Otok.
The event gathered representatives of academia, the public sector and the tourism industry with the aim of strengthening the resilience and sustainability of tourist destinations.
Key challenges highlighted included:
• 88% of tourists arrive by car
• almost 98% use fossil fuels
• energy-inefficient accommodation significantly increases energy consumption during summer
Important solutions discussed included renewable energy sources, water-saving technologies, nature-based solutions and the development of tourism content beyond beaches.
During the discussion, participants emphasized that EU funding for climate adaptation is available and that timely and effective absorption of these funds is essential.
The need for a different approach to coastal branding was also highlighted:
“Our coast is not just beaches – it is karst, nature and an authentic landscape.”
Experts warned that islands are among the most vulnerable areas due to climate change, coastal landfilling and uncontrolled anchoring, stressing the importance of preserving natural ecosystems and implementing sustainable destination management.