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Editorial

5 pages, 169 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface: XVIII International Seminars on Overarching Issues of the European Area: “Building Sustainable and Resilient Territories”

by Helena Pina, Felisbela Martins, Diogo Miguel Pinto and André Samora-Arvela

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113021 - 25 Mar 2025

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Abstract

In the wake of the pandemic and amidst ongoing global conflicts, our interconnected world is grappling with significant challenges [...] Full article

Research

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5 pages, 381 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Rethinking Food and Farming in Europe

by Jean-François Hulot

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113001 - 2 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Food security in Europe remains assured, but at too high an environmental cost. The old agro-chemical model has proven inadequate to meet the multi-faceted challenges of the 21st century. The most promising model must be sustainable and simultaneously improve economic performance, environmental protection, [...] Read more.

Food security in Europe remains assured, but at too high an environmental cost. The old agro-chemical model has proven inadequate to meet the multi-faceted challenges of the 21st century. The most promising model must be sustainable and simultaneously improve economic performance, environmental protection, and social impact. Agro-ecology meets those goals, but its implementation would require a complete rethinking of EU policies for agriculture and food. The Common Agricultural Policy must radically change from quantitative to qualitative support and favour a demand-led rather than a supply-led approach to reflect consumer needs, not only in food pricing terms but also in nutritional and health aspects. Full article

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4 pages, 394 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Empowering Rural Communities on Rural Pact Implementation: A Human–Ecological Perspective on Social Innovation and Rural Young Entrepreneurship

by Maria João Parreira and Iva Pires

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113002 - 2 Jan 2025

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Abstract

This study aligns with the Rural Pact’s Long-Term Vision for European Rural Areas by encouraging multi-level collaboration and stakeholder engagement to address rural needs. Using a Human Ecology perspective, it challenges rural stereotypes, promotes spatial justice and aims to reduce rural–urban disparities by [...] Read more.

This study aligns with the Rural Pact’s Long-Term Vision for European Rural Areas by encouraging multi-level collaboration and stakeholder engagement to address rural needs. Using a Human Ecology perspective, it challenges rural stereotypes, promotes spatial justice and aims to reduce rural–urban disparities by fostering social innovation and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas. A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews identified six key dimensions and their sub-dimensions within a transformative social–ecological model. The notable sub-dimensions include “Local Experimentation and Creativity” in Civil Society, “Higher Education Institutions and Lifelong Learning” in Knowledge and Skills, “Formal Institutional Monitoring at the National Level” in a Political and Institutional Context, and “Profiles—Young Age and Gender” in Entrepreneurship. Full article

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5 pages, 481 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Challenges for Territorial Sustainability After Forest Fires: The Case Study of the Guarda District

by Elisabete Soares, Fátima David and Pedro M. S. M. Rodrigues

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113003 - 2 Jan 2025

Viewed by 483

Abstract

Forest fires cause significant harm to ecological communities and society by altering land cover changes, imposing economic burdens, and exacerbating global warming and climate change. Based on burned areas and their land cover, this study analyzes the burned areas in Portugal’s Guarda District. [...] Read more.

Forest fires cause significant harm to ecological communities and society by altering land cover changes, imposing economic burdens, and exacerbating global warming and climate change. Based on burned areas and their land cover, this study analyzes the burned areas in Portugal’s Guarda District. It examines the environmental and economic impacts of the forest fires occurring in August 2022. The results highlight that 9.42% of the Pinus Sylvestris, a native species of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, was lost, alongside other ecological damage, including a decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) sequestration capacity and soil degradation, which increases the risk of erosion and reduces the fertility of the affected areas. The economic impact was also substantial, with significant costs related to firefighting efforts, loss of timber resources, and adverse effects on tourism and local livelihoods. Full article

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5 pages, 1186 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Vulnerability of Tourism to Climate Change in Portuguese and Brazilian Cities—A Review

by Hélder Silva Lopes and Diego Tarley Ferreira Nascimento

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113004 - 2 Jan 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 621

Abstract

Tourism and climate change exhibit a binomial relationship, in which the former contributes to and is affected by the latter. In this context, the vulnerabilities of the tourism sector to climate change are assessed, focusing on cities in Portugal and Brazil, based on [...] Read more.

Tourism and climate change exhibit a binomial relationship, in which the former contributes to and is affected by the latter. In this context, the vulnerabilities of the tourism sector to climate change are assessed, focusing on cities in Portugal and Brazil, based on a literature review. A literature review was conducted using the keywords “tourism”, “climate change”, “Brazil”, “Portugal”, and their derivatives in Portuguese on Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. In both countries, extreme rainfall events cause delays or interrupt travel, and affect infrastructure, equipment, and services for tourists. In addition, heat waves and droughts have caused thermal discomfort and water shortages for residents and tourists. Adaptation and mitigation strategies are therefore urgently needed in both territories. Full article

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4 pages, 192 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Fanning the Flames of Awareness: Strengthening Italian Society’s Knowledge on Wildfires

by Francesca Riolfi, M. Conceição Colaço, Ana Catarina Sequeira, Leticia Oliveira, Fabricio Fava and Iryna Skulska

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113005 - 2 Jan 2025

Viewed by 570

Abstract

Since the late 20th century, wildfires have increasingly disrupted ecosystems, particularly in Mediterranean-climate countries like Italy. This trend is linked to agroforestry and the abandonment of grazing activities, which is worsened by climate change. This study examines the knowledge within Italian society, using [...] Read more.

Since the late 20th century, wildfires have increasingly disrupted ecosystems, particularly in Mediterranean-climate countries like Italy. This trend is linked to agroforestry and the abandonment of grazing activities, which is worsened by climate change. This study examines the knowledge within Italian society, using data from a survey conducted as part of the European FIRE-RES project, with 152 answers, mainly from northern Italy. The research explores traditional practices, identifies knowledge gaps, and proposes a program to enhance community resilience and to mitigate the impact of wildfires through preparedness and adaptation measures. Results show that, despite a strong cultural connection to the use of fire in Italy, there is a significant gap in public knowledge and readiness to address wildfire incidents among the population. This shows the need to develop educational programs to improve community awareness and adaptive measures to mitigate the impact of wildfires. Full article

5 pages, 456 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Vegetation Regrowth in Gullies After a Wildfire: The Case Study of the Alva Basin (Centre of Portugal)

by Bruno Martins, Catarina de Almeida Pinheiro, Adélia Nunes, António Bento-Gonçalves and Manuela Laranjeira

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113006 - 6 Jan 2025

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Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify and characterize gullies considering their morphological and topographical aspects and determine the factors that control vegetation regrowth (VR) in gullies in Alva Basin after the wildfire of 2017. The use of hierarchical clustering identified two [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to identify and characterize gullies considering their morphological and topographical aspects and determine the factors that control vegetation regrowth (VR) in gullies in Alva Basin after the wildfire of 2017. The use of hierarchical clustering identified two groups of gullies. Multiple regression produced three models (R-Square = 81.3%) for gullies group 1, considering the explanatory factors mean width, slope, and burn severity. Group 2 also produced three models (R-Square = 71.8%) but considering the explanatory variables mean width, slope, and flow accumulation. VR mainly depends on post-fire recovery strategies for vegetation, the remaining soil, and site humidity. Full article

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5 pages, 729 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Symphony of Silence: The Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Philharmonic Bands in Portugal

by Diogo M. Pinto, João P. Barreiros, André Samora-Arvela and Helena Pina

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113007 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 549

Abstract

Philharmonic bands constitute a vital element of Portuguese culture, playing a central role in cultural dynamism, particularly in the country’s peripheral spaces. The central objective of this exploratory study is to analyse the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Portuguese philharmonic bands. To [...] Read more.

Philharmonic bands constitute a vital element of Portuguese culture, playing a central role in cultural dynamism, particularly in the country’s peripheral spaces. The central objective of this exploratory study is to analyse the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Portuguese philharmonic bands. To this end, a questionnaire was created and distributed among philharmonic bands in Portugal, and so far, 350 responses have been obtained. The first results reveal enormous challenges for the survival of these associations given the withdrawal of a significant number of members, who are now disengaged and unmotivated, which is reflected in the associations’ performance, recruitment and financial stability. The results also highlight the strong need for institutional support and new strategies for the sustainability and continuity of these associations. Full article

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5 pages, 338 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Contributions of Territorial and Multilevel Governance: The Case of a Strategic Urban Development Plan in Trás-os-Montes, Bragança (Portugal)

by Maria Patrocínia Correia and Hermínia Gonçalves

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113008 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 437

Abstract

This paper focuses on one of the instruments provided by the municipal sphere to solve problems in integrated territorial public policies, namely the Strategic Urban Development Plan (SUDP). Considering the starting question, “What lessons can we draw for the construction of governance models [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on one of the instruments provided by the municipal sphere to solve problems in integrated territorial public policies, namely the Strategic Urban Development Plan (SUDP). Considering the starting question, “What lessons can we draw for the construction of governance models in the territorial development processes of historic city centres in low-density cities?”, the following objectives were defined: understanding territorial and multilevel governance; capturing the contribution of governance types to the SUDP in Trás-os-Montes, Bragança; analysing the case study through the anchor projects carried out; and understanding the involvement of municipal technical managers in its implementation. Full article

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5 pages, 1019 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Preparing Resilient Communities to Mitigate Risk–Bairro Encosta Luz Case Study (Odivelas, Portugal)

by Raul Oliva and Ana Paula Oliveira

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113009 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 511

Abstract

Creating resilient communities globally is critical amid increasing disaster risks. The “Resilient Cities” program (RCP) is pivotal in mitigating these risks. Bairro Encosta Luz was surveyed to assess risk awareness among RCP communities, revealing significant gaps in respondent knowledge. Nearly half lacked preparedness [...] Read more.

Creating resilient communities globally is critical amid increasing disaster risks. The “Resilient Cities” program (RCP) is pivotal in mitigating these risks. Bairro Encosta Luz was surveyed to assess risk awareness among RCP communities, revealing significant gaps in respondent knowledge. Nearly half lacked preparedness training, compounded by vulnerabilities, such as advanced age and limited educational levels. Addressing these gaps is vital, necessitating policies and tools for risk management and social and structural adaptation within Bairro Encosta Luz. Full article

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5 pages, 164 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Shared City: Housing and Tourism in the Metropolitan Areas of Lisbon and Porto

by Rui Florentino

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113010 - 20 Jan 2025

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Abstract

This document presents the initial developments of a research work on sustainable housing and tourism beyond the urban centers of Lisbon and Porto’s metropolitan areas. The preliminary data are taken from the last three Portuguese censuses carried out in the first two decades [...] Read more.

This document presents the initial developments of a research work on sustainable housing and tourism beyond the urban centers of Lisbon and Porto’s metropolitan areas. The preliminary data are taken from the last three Portuguese censuses carried out in the first two decades of the 21st century, in 2001, 2011 and 2021. Maintaining the balance between housing and tourism is a challenge in the governance of these two major cities. Full article

4 pages, 153 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Environmental Risk Issues at a Coal Waste Spoil Heap—Climate Change Concern

by Paweł Wrona, Zenon Różański, Adam Duda and José Fernandes

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113011 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 474

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify potential factors related to weather changes and their impact on the coal waste spoil heap. Risk analyses were performed for selected sites using an “if–then” method for the construction of future scenarios, and a risk [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to identify potential factors related to weather changes and their impact on the coal waste spoil heap. Risk analyses were performed for selected sites using an “if–then” method for the construction of future scenarios, and a risk evaluation matrix for each predicted scenario was determined. The results showed that some of the factors may be ambiguous. For instance, more intense rainfall may cool the material in the heap and reduce the fire risk. On the other hand, it can lead to surface erosion and oxygen access to the material, which may increase the fire risk. Full article

5 pages, 753 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Innovations in Agri-Food Systems in Europe: Pathways and Challenges to Inclusion and Sustainability

by Iván Tartaruga and Fernanda Sperotto

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113012 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 605

Abstract

Optimal functioning of agri-food systems is essential for food security and sustainability. In this sector, Europe faces many issues, such as promoting sustainable and healthy food production in the context of social and economic inequalities. To deal with these issues, we propose a [...] Read more.

Optimal functioning of agri-food systems is essential for food security and sustainability. In this sector, Europe faces many issues, such as promoting sustainable and healthy food production in the context of social and economic inequalities. To deal with these issues, we propose a conceptual framework relating to the idea of a regional innovation system considering power relations, called the hierarchical regional innovation system (HRIS). This framework is based on the concepts of eco-innovation, inclusive innovation, and transition as its theoretical foundations. The findings show that the framework can be helpful in European rural contexts. Full article

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5 pages, 1768 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Charting the Landscape: Perspectives on Green Innovations in Agriculture

by Fernanda Sperotto and Iván Tartaruga

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113013 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 531

Abstract

Concern over the impacts of climate change has significantly increased. While these effects are evident across various contexts, this study focuses on how the scientific literature has addressed the role of green innovations in agriculture. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to understand the [...] Read more.

Concern over the impacts of climate change has significantly increased. While these effects are evident across various contexts, this study focuses on how the scientific literature has addressed the role of green innovations in agriculture. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to understand the structure and evolution of this topic over time. The results confirmed a recent increase in scientific publications and highlighted new research directions, such as identifying the agricultural subsectors most positively impacted by green innovations. Full article

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6 pages, 3037 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Socio-Territorial Fractures and Multi-Scalar Cohesion Policies

by José Manuel Gómez Giménez

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113014 - 8 Feb 2025

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Abstract

Current sociodemographic, economic, and ecological dynamics present substantial challenges across Spanish territories. In response, there is a critical need to bolster our capacity for evaluating public policies, enhance the production of actionable data to inform policy design, and reinforce socio-territorial cohesion from a [...] Read more.

Current sociodemographic, economic, and ecological dynamics present substantial challenges across Spanish territories. In response, there is a critical need to bolster our capacity for evaluating public policies, enhance the production of actionable data to inform policy design, and reinforce socio-territorial cohesion from a multi-scalar perspective. This approach is pivotal in improving coherence in the pursuit of shared objectives such as equity and sustainability. Full article

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5 pages, 181 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Landscape, Tourism and Storytelling

by Miguel Castro

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113015 - 8 Feb 2025

Viewed by 315

Abstract

When landscapes tell stories about people, the physical context, and how they become part of the identity of the inhabitants, the land acquires meaning for tourists due to their authenticity. Monument Valley and Alentejo are places where identity and landscape are crucial for [...] Read more.

When landscapes tell stories about people, the physical context, and how they become part of the identity of the inhabitants, the land acquires meaning for tourists due to their authenticity. Monument Valley and Alentejo are places where identity and landscape are crucial for touristic activity. It remains to be seen whether the future is massification or whether it will be able to maintain a balance between landscapes, culture, and sustainable tourism. From a Humanistic Geography point of view, we have conducted research based on in-depth interviews that show an unstable balance between a way of life and having economic income. Full article

5 pages, 184 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan Should Be Oriented More to the North: Analysis and Synthesis of the Manifestos of the Farmer Civic Movements in the Northern Region

by Bruno Leitão and José Vieira

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113016 - 8 Feb 2025

Viewed by 236

Abstract

Farmers are an important and fundamental professional class on which the food, health and well-being of all citizens depend. Recently, and similar to what has happened in other European countries, in Portugal there were also demonstrations of civic and spontaneous movements of farmers [...] Read more.

Farmers are an important and fundamental professional class on which the food, health and well-being of all citizens depend. Recently, and similar to what has happened in other European countries, in Portugal there were also demonstrations of civic and spontaneous movements of farmers dissatisfied with the current Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan (PEPAC), with the excessive bureaucracy and with the increase in the costs of production and unfair competition from agricultural products from other countries, especially from outside the European bloc, which do not meet the same production requirements and which are available to consumers. This work consists of a synthesis and reflection on the reasons, arguments and demands made by civic movements of farmers in the northern region of Portugal (NUT II). Among the most frequent allegations was the need to consider specific aspects of the northern Portuguese region, small family farming and some specific sectors. Although the factor that triggered farmers’ indignation was the reduction in support payable under eco-schemes, the consideration of the common land areas for subsidies and for certification in organic farming (in the mountain region), the installation of anti-hail towers in the fruit growing area and compensation for increases in energy and animal feeding costs are among the most frequently mentioned reasons for which farmers require answers. Full article

5 pages, 180 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Education on Sustainable Development Through Built Heritage and Technology: The “Art Nouveau Path” in the EduCITY App

by João Ferreira-Santos and Lúcia Pombo

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113017 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 336

Abstract

The value of cultural heritage for sustainable development has been acknowledged since the mid-20th century. Built heritage plays a key role in preserving identity, memory, and, currently, aiding education through mobile technology. The integration of education, heritage, and technology presents opportunities for innovation [...] Read more.

The value of cultural heritage for sustainable development has been acknowledged since the mid-20th century. Built heritage plays a key role in preserving identity, memory, and, currently, aiding education through mobile technology. The integration of education, heritage, and technology presents opportunities for innovation and originality, which are crucial for engaging students in sustainability. This paper focuses on the development of the “Art Nouveau Path” mobile game within the “EduCITY” app, which has been designed to promote Education for Sustainability. The game explores Aveiro’s Art Nouveau heritage and its alignment with nature and environmental concerns. Full article

5 pages, 1406 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Role of Parish Councils in Georeferencing for Emergency Planning: Approach and Methods

by Andreia Rodrigues, Aldina Santiago, Domingos Xavier Viegas and José Luís Zêzere

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113018 - 19 Mar 2025

Viewed by 187

Abstract

Rural fires are becoming increasingly impactful, not only due to their rapid and intense spread but also because of the growing number of people affected. In Portugal, numerous remote housing clusters are difficult to access and are primarily occupied by seniors or individuals [...] Read more.

Rural fires are becoming increasingly impactful, not only due to their rapid and intense spread but also because of the growing number of people affected. In Portugal, numerous remote housing clusters are difficult to access and are primarily occupied by seniors or individuals with disabilities. These areas are situated in high-risk wildfire zones. Therefore, it is crucial to document the locations of the individuals who are most at risk to ensure that relief efforts can be focused on and directed towards them in case of emergency. The aim of this paper is to propose an inventory plan for communities at risk of wildfire, requiring the involvement of parish councils. The plan involves the use of simple and cost-free georeferencing tools (such as Mymaps of Google) to enable these organizations to assist in municipal emergency planning and facilitate the exchange of real-time information. The outcomes of this paper will be demonstrated in three parishes in mainland Portugal, where the key benefits and limitations were identified. The goal is to enhance the project for potential replication in other areas. Full article

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5 pages, 638 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Enhancing Climate Resilience Through Aligned Municipal Strategies

by Madalena Cabeleira and Ana Paula Oliveira

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113019 - 20 Mar 2025

Viewed by 155

Abstract

Cities are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, prompting many municipalities to adopt Municipal Strategic Plans for the Adaptation to Climate Change (MSPACC). The success of these plans depends on coordinated efforts, particularly from Municipal Civil Protection Services (MCPS), which play a key role [...] Read more.

Cities are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, prompting many municipalities to adopt Municipal Strategic Plans for the Adaptation to Climate Change (MSPACC). The success of these plans depends on coordinated efforts, particularly from Municipal Civil Protection Services (MCPS), which play a key role in climate adaptation. To assess their involvement, a survey of MCPS coordinators was conducted, yielding 279 responses (90.6% of all Portuguese MCPS). Statistical analysis revealed that 53.4% were familiar with adaptation strategies, with 59.1% identifying MSPACC development and implementation as a key approach. Additionally, 63.4% acknowledged that climate risks were anticipated in their Municipal Civil Protection Emergency Plans (MCPEP). However, findings highlighted a critical misalignment between MSPACC and MCPEP, potentially weakening both adaptation and mitigation efforts. Bridging this gap through integrated planning and collaboration is essential to strengthening municipal resilience and safeguarding communities. Full article

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4 pages, 176 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Railway Tourism and Sustainability in Águeda

by Eunice Duarte, Diogo M. Pinto and Helena Pina

Proceedings 2025, 113(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025113020 - 21 Mar 2025

Viewed by 123

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable tourism is evident in regions like Águeda, Center of Portugal, where the Historic Vouga Train attracts a significant number of visitors. This study analyzes the intersection of this historic train’s use and sustainability principles, focusing on tourist demand. [...] Read more.

The growing demand for sustainable tourism is evident in regions like Águeda, Center of Portugal, where the Historic Vouga Train attracts a significant number of visitors. This study analyzes the intersection of this historic train’s use and sustainability principles, focusing on tourist demand. The methodology includes analyzing news from 2020 to 2023 and CP’s passenger data. The findings show the train boosts tourism in Águeda, attracting visitors keen on historical and cultural preservation. Sustainable initiatives such as promoting public transport and minimizing environmental impact are highlighted. This study underscores the importance of integrating railway heritage preservation with sustainability goals to foster local economic development. Full article

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