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The green transition of tourism

Climate change is the most urgent global challenge of our times that affects all spheres of our lives, every economic sector, every region and city. The tourism ecosystem will not only benefit from a cleaner and healthier environment but will also be an important player, contributing to the shared goals of a climate-neutral Europe.

With the  European Green Deal , the EU is leading by example by promoting new growth models and by setting climate-neutral goals by 2050. It is already committed to cutting emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

These goals are being implemented through a transformative and streamlined set of policies and legislative initiatives. The  'Fit for 55' package , proposed by the Commission on 14 July 2021, translates the ambitions of the Green Deal into law by revising and adding new initiatives on climate, energy and transport-related legislation.

A greener EU tourism

Greening European tourism is part of the broader objective to develop a more sustainable and responsible ecosystem, a process involving all players at multi-level governance: industry, destinations, national, regional and local authorities, but also the consumer – the tourist.

According to the UN World Travel Organisation,  sustainable tourism development  "takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities".

Sustainable travel has been steering the European tourism policy for the past years, led by increasing demand and expectations by the travellers and the host communities alike. While the COVID-19 crisis had paralysed travel in the past years, it has been also a unique opportunity to reset, shift the cultural mindset and emerge more resilient. 

By stepping up the greening of the EU tourism ecosystem, industry and destinations would not only contribute to CO2 reduction and a better-protected environment but would also benefit from reduced costs and reinforced competitiveness. Responsible tourists would benefit from an improved travel experience while contributing to the well-being of host communities.

EU support to reduce the environmental footprint of tourism

The EU has been supporting and promoting greener tourism for years. Here are some examples of how the EU is facilitating the process.

Sustainable and smart mobility

Promoting sustainable and smart mobility, in line with  sustainable and smart mobility strategy and action plan . 

Greener SMEs

Encouraging SMEs to adopt green practices and improve circularity through the uptake of the  EU Ecolabel for tourist accommodations  and the  EU eco-management and audit scheme (EMAS) . Also by supporting  energy efficiency  and renewable energy use, sustainable use of natural resources (water, land), and reducing waste generation (including  food waste  and  single-use plastics ).

Biodiversity

Encouraging the tourism ecosystem to contribute to the objectives of the  EU biodiversity strategy , as tourism relies on a healthy ecosystem and its rich resources (for example, ecotourism has close links to the protected areas, such as Natura 2000 or marine protected areas).

Measuring environmental footprint   by including   sustainability data and indicators on tourism statistics (tourism satellite accounts, the Tourism Dashboard, the upcoming revision of the statistics regulation), sharing best practices on sustainability schemes and measurement tools. 

Smart data use

Facilitating data sharing and smart use of data to improve sustainable tourism destination management and to apply innovative digital solutions.

Adapting to climate change

Encouraging tourism businesses and destinations to take part in   climate adaptation actions   at all levels, in line with the new  EU strategy on adaptation to climate change , and supporting them with research.

Green skills

Supporting skills and building the capacity of tourism businesses and destinations to enable them to implement green practices (e.g. Pact for Skills in tourism ).

Raising awareness

Raising awareness about the advantages of green transition for tourism businesses through the promotion of sustainable destinations and dissemination of best practices in greening tourism. Travel sentiment towards sustainable choices is followed up by the Commission and can be found via EU Eurobarometer .

Best practice examples on green actions in tourism

The Sustainable EU Tourism campaign

European Capital of Smart Tourism

European Destination of Excellence (EDEN)

European Green Capitals, Green leaf Awards Interreg MED sustainable tourism community

• Compendium on overtourism evidence and case studies on unbalanced tourism growth

New transport proposals target greater efficiency and more sustainable travel

To support the transition to cleaner, greener, and smarter mobility, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal , the Commission today adopted four proposals that will modernise the EU’s transport system. By increasing connectivity and shifting more passengers and freight to rail and inland waterways, by supporting the roll-out of charging points, alternative refuelling infrastructure, and new digital technologies, by placing a stronger focus on sustainable urban mobility, and by making it easier to choose different transport options in an efficient multimodal transport system, the proposals will put the transport sector on track to cutting its emissions by 90%.

Executive Vice President for the European Green Deal Frans Timmermans said, “Europe’s green and digital transition will bring big changes to the ways we move around. Today’s proposals set European mobility on track for a sustainable future: faster European rail connections with easy-to-find tickets and improved passenger rights support for cities to increase and improve public transport and infrastructure for walking and cycling, and making the best possible use of solutions for smart and efficient driving.”

Transport Commissioner Adina Vălean said, “Today we are proposing higher standards along the TEN-T network, boosting high speed rail and embedding multimodality, and a new north-south Corridor in Eastern Europe. With our Intelligent Transport Systems Directive we are embracing digital technologies and data-sharing. We want to make travel in the EU more efficient – and safer – for drivers, passengers and businesses alike. The cities linked by EU infrastructure are our economic powerhouses, but they must also be lean cities – for inhabitants and commuters. That is why we are recommending a dedicated framework for sustainable urban mobility - to guide the faster transition to safe, accessible, inclusive, smart and zero-emission urban mobility.”

A smart and sustainable TEN-T

The TEN-T is an EU-wide network of rail, inland waterways, short-sea shipping routes, and roads. It connects 424 major cities with ports, airports and railway terminals. When the TEN-T is complete, it will cut travel times between these cities. For example, passengers will be able to travel between Copenhagen and Hamburg in 2.5 hours by train, instead of the 4.5 hours required today.

To address the missing links and modernise the entire network, today’s proposal:

• Requires that the major TEN-T passenger rail lines allow trains to travel at 160 km/h or faster by 2040 thus creating competitive high-speed railway connections throughout the Union. Canals and rivers must ensure good navigation conditions, unhindered for example by water levels, for a minimum number of days per year.
•   Calls for more transhipment terminals, improved handling capacity at freight terminals, reduced waiting times at rail border crossings, longer trains to shift more freight onto cleaner transport modes, and the option for lorries to be transported by train network-wide. To ensure infrastructure planning meets real operational needs, it also creates nine ‘European Transport Corridors’ that integrate rail, road, and waterways.
• Introduces a new intermediary deadline of 2040 to advance the completion of major parts of the network ahead of the 2050 deadline that applies to the wider, comprehensive network. So new high-speed rail connections between Porto and Vigo, and Budapest and Bucharest – among others – must be completed for 2040.
•   Requires all 424 major cities along the TEN-T network to develop Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans to promote zero-emission mobility and to increase and improve public transport and infrastructure for walking and cycling.

Increasing long-distance and cross-border rail traffic

Rail remains one of the safest and cleanest transport modes and is therefore at the heart of our policy to make EU mobility more sustainable. Today’s TEN-T proposal is accompanied by an Action Plan on long-distance and cross-border rail that lays out a roadmap with further actions to help the EU meet its target of doubling high-speed rail traffic by 2030, and tripling it by 2050.

Although the number of people travelling by train has increased in recent years, only 7% of rail kilometres travelled between 2001 and 2018 involved cross-border trips. To encourage more people to consider the train for trips abroad, the Action Plan sets out concrete actions to remove barriers to cross-border and long-distance travel, and make rail travel more attractive for passengers. The actions include:

• a multimodal legislative proposal in 2022 to boost user-friendly multimodal ticketing;
• allowing passengers to find the best tickets at the most attractive price and better supporting passengers faced with disruption, and a commitment to investigating an EU-wide VAT exemption for train tickets;
• the repeal of redundant national technical and operational rules;
• an announcement of proposals for 2022 on timetabling and capacity management, which will boost quicker and more frequent cross-border rail services;
• guidelines for track access pricing in 2023 that will ease rail operators’ access to infrastructure, increasing competition and allowing for more attractive ticket prices for passengers.

By 2030, the Commission will support the launch of at least 15 cross-border pilot to test the Action Plan’s approach, ahead of the entry into force of the new TEN-T requirements.

Intelligent transport services for drivers

Smart mobility makes our mobility more sustainable. The Commission is therefore proposing to update the 2010 ITS Directive, adapting to the emergence of new road mobility options, mobility apps and connected and automated mobility. Our proposal will stimulate the faster deployment of new, intelligent services, by proposing that certain crucial road, travel and traffic data is made available in digital format, such as speed limits, traffic circulation plans or roadworks, along the TEN-T network and ultimately covering the entire road network. It will also ensure that essential safety-related services are made available for drivers along the TEN-T network.

Today’s proposal will update the Directive in line with new priorities on better multimodal and digital services.

Cleaner, greener, easier urban mobility

The new Urban Mobility Framework will benefit transport users and all the people around them. Cities are home to millions of people. Today’s proposal addresses some of the mobility challenges stemming from this intense economic activity – congestion, emissions, noise. The Urban Mobility Framework sets out European guidance on how cities can cut emissions and improve mobility, including via Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans. The main focus will be on public transport, walking and cycling. The proposal also prioritises zero-emission solutions for urban fleets, including taxis and ride-hailing services, the last mile of urban deliveries, and the construction and modernisation of multimodal hubs, as well as new digital solutions and services. Today’s proposal maps out the funding options for local and regional authorities to implement these priorities. In 2022, the Commission will propose a Recommendation to EU Member States for the development of national plans to assist cities in developing their mobility plans.

This is the second package of proposals to support a transition to cleaner, greener transport following the publication of the Commission’s Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy in December 2020. The Strategy is a roadmap, guiding the sector towards the objectives of the European Green Deal.

For More Information

Action plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services

Questions and Answers: Action Plan to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services

Questions and Answers: The revision of the TEN-T Regulation

Questions and Answers: Intelligent Transport Systems

Questions and Answers: European Urban Mobility Framework  

Factsheet: BOOSTING LONG-DISTANCE AND CROSS-BORDER passenger rail

Factsheet: CREATING A GREEN AND EFFICIENT Trans-European Transport Network

Factsheet: IMPROVING ROAD SAFETY AND DRIVER COMFORT through digitalisation

Factsheet: THE NEW EUROPEAN Urban Mobility Framework

TENtec Interactive Map Viewer

The DiscoverEU Green Route

Need some inspiration when planning your DiscoverEU route? Interested in what the most sustainable cities in Europe have to offer?

Explore the different sections of this map to learn about amazing places that are both great to visit and environmentally friendly. 

Some of these cities have been awarded for their efforts when it comes to the environment: the European Green Capitals and Green Leaf title winners. Others showcase the best green parks and nature reserves in Europe, or are home to projects focused on making their city a greener and more sustainable place. Several cities are part of the 'Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission' , with the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2030, leading the way for all other cities in the Europe.

DiscoverEU celebrates seeing the best of Europe in a sustainable way – which is why you’ll mainly travel by rail, since trains are one of the least polluting means of transport. In fact, did you know that rail is the only mode of transport to have almost continuously reduced CO2 emissions over the last few years? 

Another way to go green is to apply our tips while travelling, or listen to Laura , one of our DiscoverEU ambassadors and a green champion!

• Green leaves - green cities
• Brown leaves - connector cities

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EU Green Pass Travel: What You Need to Know

Eu green pass: what is it, how does the eu green pass work, what are the benefits of the eu green pass, how can i get an eu green pass, what do i need to know about using the eu green pass, what are the requirements for the eu green pass, what are the restrictions on the eu green pass, how long is the eu green pass valid for, can i renew my eu green pass, what happens if i lose my eu green pass.

The EU Green Pass will allow travelers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 to show proof of their vaccination status when entering the EU. Here’s what you need to know about the EU Green Pass.

Checkout this video:

Watch this video on YouTube

The EU Green Pass is a certification that will allow holders to easily prove their Covid-19 vaccination status when travelling within the European Union.

The pass will be digital and free of charge, and will be available in English, French and German from summer 2021. It will contain information on the holder’s vaccination status, as well as any other relevant health information such as negative test results.

The pass will be voluntary, and it will be up to each individual country to decide whether or not to accept it. However, it is expected that most EU countries will do so, given the importance of restarting cross-border travel.

If you plan on travelling within the EU this summer, make sure to check if your destination country is accepting the EU Green Pass.

The EU Green Pass is a new initiative from the European Union (EU) that will soon allow residents of EU countries to travel within the bloc for essential purposes.

The pass will be available in digital or physical form, and will contain information on the holder’s vaccination status, as well as any negative test results for COVID-19.

The pass is not yet available, but is expected to be introduced in the coming weeks. Here’s what you need to know about the EU Green Pass.

The EU Green Pass is a new initiative that allows citizens of European countries to travel freely within the EU for leisure purposes. The pass is an attempt to revive tourism in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, and will be valid for travel between 1 July and 31 August 2021.

The pass will allow holders to travel without the need for a negative PCR test or quarantine on arrival, making it easier and more affordable for people to holiday within the EU this summer. In addition, the pass will provide discounts on accommodation and activities, as well as access to exclusive offers from partner companies.

To be eligible for the EU Green Pass, you must be a citizen of an EU country and have a valid passport. You will also need to download the free ‘EU Green Pass’ app, which will be available from 1 July 2021.

For more information on the EU Green Pass, please visit: https://ec.europa.eu/info/live/eu-green-pass_en

The EU Green Pass is an initiative launched by the European Commission to facilitate free movement within the EU for vaccinated citizens. The pass will be available in digital or physical format and will contain information on the holder’s Covid-19 vaccination status, as well as any test or quarantine requirements that need to be met.

To get an EU Green Pass, you will need to have a valid vaccine certificate that is issued by your home country. You can then either download the EU Green Pass App or request a physical copy of the pass from your national authorities.

Once you have obtained your EU Green Pass, you will be able to travel freely within the Schengen Area without having to quarantine or undergo any additional testing requirements.

The EU Green Pass is part of the Commission’s wider strategy to re-open borders and restart tourism in a safe and sustainable way.

The EU Green Pass is a new initiative that allows travelers to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 when traveling within the European Union. The pass is available to all citizens of the EU, and it is valid for both leisure and business travel.

To use the EU Green Pass, you will need to download the app and create an account. Once you have done this, you will be able to add your vaccination information to your profile. When you are ready to travel, you can show your vaccine information using the app or by printing out a physical copy of your vaccine record.

The EU Green Pass is valid for travel within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries. It is also valid for travel to and from countries that have signed the Mutual Recognition Agreement on COVID-19 test and vaccination certificates. This includes the United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

If you are traveling to a country that has not yet signed the Mutual Recognition Agreement, you may still be able to use your EU Green Pass if that country has put in place a reciprocal arrangement with the European Union. For example, Bulgaria has put in place a reciprocal arrangement with the EU for vaccine certificates, so travelers with an EU Green Pass can enter Bulgaria without having to quarantine or get a negative PCR test.

The EU Green Pass is not mandatory for travel within the Schengen Area or for travel to and from countries that have signed the Mutual Recognition Agreement. However, it may make travel easier as it will allow you to bypass some of the requirements that are in place, such as quarantine measures or negative PCR tests.

The EU Green Pass will allow holders to cross borders within the EU for leisure travel.

There are three key requirements for the EU Green Pass: -The pass must show a negative test result, -be issued no more than 48 hours before travel, and -be presented along with a valid ID.

The pass will be valid for a period of 72 hours after the test is taken.

There are a few restrictions on the EU Green Pass. first, it is only valid for travel within the European Union. second, it is only valid for those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Finally, it is only valid for those who have received a negative test result within the 72 hours prior to their trip.

The EU Green Pass is valid for travel within the Schengen area for a period of three months from the date of issuance. The Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal , Slovakia , Slovenia , Spain , Sweden and Switzerland.

Yes, you can renew your EU Green Pass. If you are a member of the European Union, you can renew your pass for free. If you are not a member of the European Union, you can still renew your pass, but you will need to pay a fee.

If you lose your EU Green Pass, you can get a replacement from the issuing authority. There is a fee for this service. The replacement EU Green Pass will be valid for the remaining period of validity of the lost pass.

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Travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to enter 30 European countries (starting in the first half of 2025)

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How to get the EU Green Pass as an American Citizen

Posted By Jon Nickel-D'Andrea on Aug 26, 2021 | 23 comments

Currently, this Green Pass is only available to residents of the European Union, but that doesn’t mean that as an American you’re out of luck.

Here’s how to travel around Europe with no issues and get your own Green Pass

What is the Green Pass?

The Covid Green pass is required for travel across Europe and for most indoor activities upon your arrival. Each country has their own specific requirements of how to obtain one (for example, which documents you need) but the jist is the same:

• You must be vaccinated with either Pfizer, Moderna, J&J or AstraZeneca • You have to have a negative Covid-19 test • You have to show recovery from Covid-19

Each of the above requirements comes with a certain amount of validity. For example, the negative test pass only lasts 48 hours while the vaccination gives you six months of validity.

How can you get a Green Pass as an American?

There are two ways as an American to get a Green Pass. The first might seem kind of obvious, but it’s by being a dual citizen. If you only hold a USA passport, you won’t be able to get a green pass before you get to Europe.

Once you’re IN EUROPE, however, you can get a Green Pass by simply getting a Covid test in Europe. On our recent trip to Italy, we presented ourselves at a pharmacy, took a quick antigen test, and the Green Pass was in our email inbox within about 30 minutes.

No Green Pass, No Problem

As Americans can’t get the digital version of the Green Pass, all isn’t necessarily lost. If you have your CDC White Card showing your vaccination, this will be accepted in all establishments that require a green pass.

When we arrived in Italy, we showed the pass upon arrival and it was no problem. The same goes for the Vatican Museums, outdoor restaurants, and the train station.

When we went to the airport lounge, we had to have our Green Pass to get in. The lounge is considered indoor dining, so if you don’t have the pass, the lounge would not admit you.

What if you’re not vaccinated

The simple answer is that if you don’t have a vaccine, the ONLY way to travel to Europe is with a new test every 48 hours, as the Green pass version is good for only 48 hours.

The even more simple answer is that you should get the vaccine and wait 14 days after your second dose, that way you can travel to Europe and protect yourself and others.

Bottom Line

As an American, you won’t be able to get the Green Pass before you head to Europe. You will only be able to enjoy normal activities in Europe if you have a Covid test on European soil OR you show your CDC White Vaccination card along with your passport.

Author: Jon Nickel-D'Andrea

23 Comments

August 26, 2021

While this may not be the case in Italy, France issues tourists green passes on the basis of being vaccinated, rather than requiring them to get every 48 hours.

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/coronavirus-statements/article/applying-for-a-covid-certificate-if-you-were-vaccinated-abroad-procedure-for

Good call out. This will end in a week so let’s hope For an extension! Thanks for the comment

August 27, 2021

France’s system has been so overloaded with Americans that the one-time 24 hour delay has stretched to the point that ours were not processed before we left the ocuntry a week later.

January 13, 2022

They no longer offer this service,and you need to go to a selected pharmacie, none of which are in Provence, for example. Bring your CDC vax card and get help from a hotel, or keep your ID and card with you at all times. The restaurants and other places do accept the CDC card and your ID for entry.

March 29, 2022

Can you update this? It appears the rules change daily and this was done in August 2021. We are just trying to find out correct information.

April 6, 2022

Hey Tessa. Sorry that it’s out of date. I hope you find the correct info, but at this point as long as your vaccinated, things will be a lot easier!

I have been innOtaly since July ans not having a green pass since August 6 is a problem. Many restaurants do not accept the vaccination card. Museums and government run establishments do but smaller businesses do not always recognize it. I got a green pass by going to the municipal office of the small town I was staying in and explained the problem (in broken Italian) ans they were able to send me a green pass to my email in a few hours. The system needs to be.better than it is and easier for American travelers to get a green pass because not everyone accepts the vaccine card as they are supposed to.

If this statement is true: “As Americans CAN’T get the digital version of the Green Pass, all isn’t necessarily lost.” (Emphasis on “can’t” added)

How did you get a green pass in your email in 30 minutes?

“On our recent trip to Italy, we presented ourselves at a pharmacy, took a quick antigen test, and the Green Pass was in our email inbox within about 30 minutes.”

” …. and the Green Pass was in our email inbox within about 30 minutes.”

Good article! I am schedule to go to Italy soon. The green pass received with the in-country COVID test, is that good for a limited time (like 48 hours, etc.)? I have my CDC vaccine card but if I can get a digital, that seems easier.

August 28, 2021

You’re correct. I’d suggest carrying the CDC card as that’s accepted in 99% of the locations. You can get a rest if you feel better and want the digital version QR code.

I have used my CDC card everywhere I’ve gone in Italy that requires it. As I speak Italian, it has been no problem to provide additional explanation if requested. If you are traveling to Italy, I suggest you Google translate an explanation in Italian of our CDC card, print it out and carry it with you. Be sure to mention that our date format is opposite of the Euro one. They use day, then month. We use month, then day. That could cause some confusion when people see the date of vaccination.

My husband and I both got tested in Austria about a week ago and didn’t get the green pass, just an email with the test results. So this might be true for Italy, but not other countries.

The email should work for most people in lieu of the green pass no? We had to ask the pharmacy to make sure to send the paper green pass via email

August 30, 2021

Any American Citizen (or foreign Citizen) fully vaccinated in the US can get the European Green Pass without being in Europe. This company provides you with the European Green Pass sibmitting your US certificate: http://www.europeancovidgreenpass.com It is a reliable company and service fee is very reasonable. The sencond info I would like to correct as EU Citizen and US residence is that your CDC card (vaccination certificate) is accepted until the end of August 2021 because having a Green Pass became mandatory to access public indoor places at the beginning of August. Now it is requested pretty everyeare (paper or digital version), in some countries like Italy even to take a train.

September 22, 2021

CDC card won’t work in France. They started issuing the QR code if you apply for it online at https://www.demarches-simplifiees.fr/users/sign_in , but they rejected our application as they processed it 10 days after our return from the trip. Anybody can obtain QR code in France by stopping at the pharmacy, pay 25 euro for a rapid test and get printout and email from the pharmacy in 20 mins. It is valid for 72 hours, so we have to do it twice for our 4 days trip to Paris.

I would like to share and correct some information reported here that may be useful for everyone. Any American Citizen (or foreign Citizen) fully vaccinated in the US can get the European Green Pass without being in Europe. This company provides you with the European Green Pass sibmitting your US certificate: http://www.europeancovidgreenpass.com It is a reliable company and service fee is very reasonable. The sencond info I would like to correct as EU Citizen and US residence is that your CDC card (vaccination certificate) is accepted until the end of August 2021 because having a Green Pass became mandatory to access public indoor places at the beginning of August. Now it is requested pretty everyeare (paper or digital version), in some countries like Italy even to take a train.

September 6, 2021

I have also vaccinated in Austria but been waiting to get a green card. How long do i have to wai?

November 28, 2021

This article that seems to suggest a way when there is nothing practical being suggested. 🙂

To the person who suggested https://www.europeancovidgreenpass.com/ : Are you serious? $99-$139 per person is reasonable price?

Our family was in Germany, Austria and Italy for a few weeks this past summer. US CDC card was widely accepted by hotels, museums, shops et al in big cities and small towns.

Exception: France requires foreign nationals to present Passe Sanitaire by visiting designated local pharmacies with your passport + forty euros (?) application fee. Online application is no longer accepted unless you are a foreign student. Therefore, the only reason to get this green pass ahead of time is if you are travelling to France during Christmas time, when most if not all pharmacies/testing centers could be closed during that holiday period.

December 9, 2021

Your info is misleading. Covid test will give you “green pass” only for 48 hours, meaning you would have to take every other day.

January 26, 2022

What about natural immunity? Can a US citizen get the Green Pass with proof of recovery? Same as EU citizens? This article is quite dated. What is changing now?

February 3, 2022

It’s dated because I stopped updating it. The rules changed so often that most people just say “google for the latest”

April 17, 2022

What does anyone know about the covid requirements to enter Potugal? I have been vaccinated with the first two doses plus two booster shoots the last one on Apr 8, 2022, do I need a test before entering? If I do, then will I get a Green Card? If I get a Green Card but I am in Portugal for more than 48 hrs., do I need to get another test?

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The Green Erasmus Portal has been developed by Green Erasmus project to provide students with concrete information on how to be sustainable before, during and after their Erasmus experience. While some actions are generally well-known, other aspects are often overlooked and/or students do not exactly know how to make their Erasmus exchanges greener can be difficult. Use the portal to find out our tips and tricks to act sustainably, and useful resources for more information and get involved! You can also play the On my way and Small Steps games and test your sustainability knowledge through our Green Erasmus Quiz !

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During the course of the Green Erasmus project (whic also developed this portal), we ran a petition calling for:

• Increasing the current €50 to a universal top up to individual support of up to €250 for green travel, proportionate to distance covered
• And increasing the current 4 days up to 7 days of additional individual support covering additional subsistence costs and/or accommodation needs linked to green travel - for the round trip

The petition was signed by 5257 people from over 100 countries, demonstrating the strength of support for these asks, and more broadly the desire to see a greener Erasmus+ programme.

Read more about the next steps for the petition asks in this article on the project website .

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The European Green Deal

• Find out what progress the von der Leyen Commission has made so far with the European Green Deal towards becoming climate-neutral by 2050.

Striving to be the first climate-neutral continent

Climate change and environmental degradation are an existential threat to Europe and the world. To overcome these challenges, the European Green Deal will transform the EU into a modern, resource-efficient and competitive economy, ensuring:

• no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050
• economic growth decoupled from resource use
• no person and no place left behind

The European Green Deal is also our lifeline out of the COVID-19 pandemic. One third of the €1.8 trillion  investments from the NextGenerationEU Recovery Plan, and the EU’s seven-year budget will finance the European Green Deal.

The European Commission has adopted a set of proposals to make the EU's climate, energy, transport and taxation  policies fit for reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 , compared to 1990 levels. More information on  Delivering the European Green Deal .

Discover the European Green Deal visual story

30 July 2024 – The new Directive on repair of goods has entered into force. It promotes more sustainable consumption by encouraging consumers to repair rather than replace their faulty products. Delivering on the Commission’s priority of green transition, the Directive will also prevent waste, save resources and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The Commission will work with EU countries on the development of the European online platform and annual updates of the list of products to which the obligation to repair applies. Countries have time until 31 July 2026 to implement these rules.

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Green Travelling and the Support of Erasmus+ Programme | Perspective

* Erasmus Generation Perspective articles are written by ESN volunteers to share the student voice on current policy developments in the field of international education. The text represents the authors' individual perspective and not an official statement of the Erasmus Student Network.

With the growing globalisation, travelling has gained importance for self-exploration, cultural exchange, and learning. However, even though travelling brings about many benefits, it accounts for 8% of global carbon emissions . Considering its growth, the percentage can rise every year. Moreover, unmindful travelling practices result in local businesses and communities facing problems. Therefore, a new way of travelling has been brought to life; green travelling . But what exactly is green travelling? 

Sustainable tourism (ecotourism or even green travelling) consists of making simple choices to reduce its negative impact on a given destination . With its increasing popularity, another question occurs - how can one practice green travelling? Green travelling can be considered as an individual's responsibility to travel by giving back to nature and the local community of the target destination.  

When travelling, the first issue is the choice of transportation . Although flying is usually the fastest and the cheapest option, it is an unsustainable way of travelling. To green travel, the first thing you can do is to avoid domestic flights in the first place. If you are travelling within Europe, it is best to use the train to transport. If you do not have such an option or you are travelling overseas, try to use direct flights as the takeoffs and landings create most of an aeroplane’s carbon emissions. You can also use airlines that offer carbon offset programs for a greener journey.  In terms of getting around once you're at your destination, try to visit places by using an electric car, a bike, a scooter, or even better: on foot.

For the second element of travelling, we can take a closer search for greener accommodation options . With a little research, you can find accommodations that give back to local people and the planet. Websites such as EcoBnb and Green Pearls allow individuals to list accommodation variants according to how sustainable they are. Before leaving your accommodation, don't forget to take the leftover products to use later as they will be thrown away after you leave your accommodation. 

As the Erasmus Generation, how can we carry out exchanges with green travel? You can always apply the tips mentioned before. However, there is always more that can be done. During your exchange, before each trip, make sure you unplug everything. Carry a small bag with you to pick up the rubbish along your way to school, home, or trip. Try not to interfere with the wildlife by not feeding animals and sticking to the hiking paths on a hiking trip. 

Remember to give back to your host community .  You can join local organisations in different areas. You may even connect with people while helping nature at the same time. Try to shop from local markers for food. Seek out indigenous artisans when you are buying souvenirs or gifts to help the local community directly. You can get involved with the local communities by honouring their customs and cultural traditions. Doing small research before your exchange will help you a lot with getting in touch with your host community. 

When talking about green travelling, we can see the impact it has on younger generations , according to a study done by Booking.com , 54% of Gen Zers say that the environmental impact travelling has on destinations is an important factor when deciding where to book travel, and 56% would want to stay in a green or eco-friendly accommodation. The same survey has also demonstrated the interest that tourists have on different sustainable options when it comes to travelling, 87% of all tourists want more sustainable travel options, and 67% are willing to spend at least 5% more on their travel to ensure it has as low of an impact on the environment as possible.

While asked the top reasons for choosing eco-friendly places to stay, travellers said to help reduce environmental impact (40%), to have a locally relevant experience (34%) and wanting to feel good about an accommodation choice (33%).

The European Union’s direct emissions from aviation accounted for 3.8% of total CO2 emissions, in 2017 . When talking about transports, the aviation sector creates 13.9% of the total Greenhouse Gases emissions.   If global aviation were a country, it would rank in the top 10 emitters. The very common flight between Lisbon to New York, going and coming back, generates almost the same emissions as the average person in the EU does by heating their home for a whole year. Just a flight from London to Berlin emits around 0.6 tonnes of CO2.  

Although we are increasing our fuel efficiency, the number of flights is also increasing, globally speaking, around 1% per year of fuel efficiency, while the number of flights is around 6%, says Dan Rutherford , shipping and aviation director at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), a US-based non-profit.

In the newest Erasmus+ Programme Guide , having in mind the needs for sustainable goals and greener practices, the European Commission has established a top-up amount for green travel support in different key actions . Meaning that individuals who choose to take transport methods considered to be more sustainable can receive more grant money for their travels and up to 4 days of additional travel days (if the travel days are relevant for the key action).

These additions to the Erasmus+ Programme are very relevant to change the way we travel around Europe. It can change our perspective and mindset around the green travel topic. Nowadays, many travellers see green travelling as a very expensive way to travel , however, the new opportunity involving the Erasmus+ Programme can help us discover a new way to deal with sustainable travelling .  Green travel is also among the top areas of interest of the Erasmus Student Network . Currently, European-wide research on the habits of Erasmus+ students is running in the context of the Green Erasmus project . If you want to contribute to making the Erasmus+ Programme more sustainable, fill out the Green Erasmus survey.  

To sum up, it is now easier to green travel as it is supported by various organisations, agencies, local communities and companies, as a result, the sustainable travelling market is growing rapidly to face our environmental problems. Individuals can practice green travel by changing small habits while enjoying the travelling experience and being mindful of sustainability. After the pandemic, where will be your next green travelling destination? 

40 Green Travel Tips (The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel)

Carbon Footprint of Travelling

Eco-responsible travelling: the ultimate guide in 15 steps (part 1)

Where Sustainable Travel is Headed in 2018

Should we give up flying for the sake of the climate?

Reducing emissions from aviation

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Driving in the EU

What UK drivers need to do to drive when visiting the EU

If you are a commercial driver, there is additional guidance for:

lorry and goods vehicle drivers

bus and coach drivers

Driving licences and international driving permits

You need to carry your UK driving licence with you.

You do not need an international driving permit ( IDP ) to visit and drive in the EU , Switzerland, Iceland or Liechtenstein.

You might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have:

• a paper driving licence
• a licence that was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

Check if you need an IDP .

You will not need an IDP to drive when visiting Ireland if you have a UK driving licence.

You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint .

An IDP costs £5.50 and drivers must:

• be a resident of Great Britain or Northern Ireland
• have a full UK driving licence
• be 18 or over

Driving licence exchange

If you live and drive in an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you need to exchange your driving licence for a local one.

Check the deadlines and rules for licence exchange in the country you live in .

Insurance for your vehicle, caravan or trailer

All UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in the EU (including Ireland).

You do not need to carry a green card when you drive in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia, or Switzerland. You still need valid vehicle insurance.

More about vehicle insurance .

Vehicle registration documents

If you’re taking your vehicle to the EU for less than 12 months, carry one of the following documents:

• your vehicle log book ( V5C ), if you have one
• a VE103 to show you’re allowed to use your hired or leased vehicle abroad

Trailer registration

You need to register some commercial and non-commercial trailers before towing them to or through most EU and EEA countries.

Find out more about trailer registration .

UK stickers and number plates

You must display the UK identifier when driving a UK -registered vehicle abroad.

If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a UK sticker.

However, you will need to display a UK sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle if your number plate has any of the following:

• a GB identifier with the Union flag
• a Euro symbol
• a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales
• numbers and letters only – no flag or identifier

If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker no matter what is on your number plate.

You do not need a UK sticker or identifier to drive in Ireland.

What to do if you’re involved in a road accident

If you’re involved in a road accident in an EU country, you should, in the first instance, contact your insurance provider.

Any legal proceedings against either the responsible driver or the insurance provider of the vehicle will need to be brought in the EU or EEA country where the accident happened. You might have to make your claim in the local language.

You will not get compensation in some countries if the accident is caused by an uninsured driver or if the driver cannot be traced.

Get legal advice if you need more information about this.

Updates to this page

Updated to inform customers that they can get an IDP from certain shops that have PayPoint

From 28 September 2021, you need a UK sticker on your vehicle instead of a GB sticker.

From 28 September 2021, you’ll need a UK sticker instead of a GB sticker on your vehicle to drive abroad.

You do not need to carry a green card to drive in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia, or Switzerland.

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Part of drive abroad: step by step, step 1 : check where you can use your licence.

• Check the rules for using your driving licence abroad

You may need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive outside the UK.

• Check if you need an IDP

Step 2 : Apply for an international driving permit (IDP)

• Get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint £5.50

Step 3 : Get insurance

• Check if your vehicle insurance covers you for the countries you're driving through

Check this with your car hire company if you’re hiring a vehicle.

Step 4 : Prepare the documents you need to take with you

• Check what documents you need to take a vehicle out of the UK

If you're hiring a car you may need to share your driving licence information with the hire company.

• Get a 'check code' to share your driving licence information

If you got your licence in Northern Ireland, you’ll need to show the rental company your paper counterpart instead.

Step 5 : Check the rules for the country you're travelling to

The rules for driving may be different in the country you're going to. For example, drink-driving rules might be different or you might need to carry extra equipment in your car.

• Check if you need to display a country sticker on your vehicle
• You are currently viewing: Check what you need to do if you’re driving in the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway
• Check the travel advice for all countries

When you have your documents, insurance and any extra equipment you need you can drive abroad.

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Green Drive

Green Drive is the Tour’s programme to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2040 and become a respected sustainability showcase that can deliver net positive impacts on the courses, countries and communities we visit each season.

Our commitment to environmental responsibility

The Green Drive strategy was launched in June 2021. A subsequent update to the strategy was issued in October 2022, announcing the Tour’s signature to the United Nations Sports for Climate Action pledge with the aim to reach Net Zero by 2040.

This resulted in an increased drive to reduce carbon emissions, and at selected events credibly offset via the Gold Standard. Some of our key areas for consideration and targets are: Locally sourced suppliers, Cleaner energy to power our events - renewable grid power, solar, HVO and hydrogen, Zero waste to landfill, Free drinking water for all, reducing single use plastics at our events, Venues to be GEO Certified, Ethical procurement code, Tournament collateral to be repurposed (Wood, carpet, food, and signage), Cleaner transportation, use of Electric Vehicles into shuttles, Paperless ticketing and Raising awareness.

To view and read our Green Drive Sustainability Impact Report 2023, please click here .

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The green drive programme.

The Green Drive programme was launched on World Environment Day, June 5, 2021 and is being delivered with support from the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf (GEO) - a non-profit organisation dedicated to inspiring, supporting and recognising sustainability in and through golf around the world.

Green Drive focuses on three core pillars: • Lead by Example by integrating best practices into core operations, owned events and procurement, establishing Tour wide policies and tools, and activating new partnerships. • Support and Share by providing guidance and examples of best practice, and fostering a growing community of collective action and results. • Promote and Inspire by raising awareness, inspiring others and establishing a credible leadership position for golf in sustainable sport.

Green Drive: Sustainability Strategy

DP World Tour Partners