UST Project Xixona municipality CHANGES OF STRATEGIES, POLICIES As a result of the project, several policy and strategy developments are taking shape: The Rocca renovation is being reimagined as a cultural community hub, prioritizing residents while welcoming tourism as a secondary benefit (Strategic Objective: SC02.3 – CULTURE: THE FORTRESS AT THE CENTER) A network of cultural, historical and nature trails is being developed - not just as tourist attractions, but as enhancements to local life, mobility, and environmental education. Deeper collaboration with associations in now seen as central to tourism planning - not an accessory, but a structural pillar as included in the Strategic Objective: SC01.5 - PARTICIPATION: HAMLETS AND CITY CLUBS AS PROTAGONITS OF THEIR OWN FUTURE. For this reason, it is expected that discussion tables will soon be set up to enable reflection on the various events and the common objective of promoting sustainable tourism. We also recognize the need to develop stronger communication strategies to convey this model of tourism clearly: one that is rooted in community, respectful of place, and driven by authenticity and sustainability. Through the UST project, we learned that sustainable tourism is not a separate goal, but the natural result of a community-first approach, By focusing on residents, investing in local capacity, and strengthening associative networks, we are creating a tourism model that is resilient, inclusive, and deeply tied to our territory. Our journey is ongoing, but we now have a stronger sense of direction and purpose. UST has not only offered us tools - it has helped us reflect, question, and evolve WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED FROM APPLYING THE TOOLS OURSELVES Participating in the UST project has allowed us to look at the Christmas Fair, one of Xixona’s most emblematic events, with new eyes. By using the SDG framework and selfassessment process, we were able to identify the multiple roles that the fair plays in our community, not only as a strong seasonal tourist attraction, but as a powerful engine for social inclusion, local entrepreneurship, and sustainable food heritage. Initially, we approached the Christmas Fair as an event that supported tourism and local pride. But the self-assessment tool helped us better understand the broader impact the fair has across different dimensions of sustainability, especially SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger). 26
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