The European Tourism Indicator System (ETIS) is a practical tool created by the European Commission to support sustainable tourism development across Europe. mSince its launch in 2013, ETIS has helped tourism destinations manage, measure, and monitor their sustainability efforts more effectively. It encourages a locally led, participatory approach, allowing destinations to take ownership of their data collection and decision-making processes.
Why ETIS Matters
Sustainable tourism is no longer optional—it’s essential. ETIS offers a structured way for destinations to improve their long-term viability by balancing environmental, social, and economic priorities. Its main goal is to enhance how destinations manage sustainability by providing relevant, measurable indicators and encouraging continuous progress.
Key Components of ETIS
ETIS organizes its 43 core and 40 optional indicators into four main categories:
- Destination Management
- Economic Value
- Social and Cultural Impact
- Environmental Impact
These categories cover everything from resource efficiency and employment to local community engagement and conservation efforts.
How ETIS Works
In order make the most of ETIS, destinations follow a seven-step process outlined in the ETIS Toolkit:
- Raise awareness among stakeholders about the value of sustainable tourism.
- Define the destination profile to set a clear baseline.
- Create a stakeholder working group that includes public, private, and civil society actors.
- Assign responsibilities to ensure accountability throughout the process.
- Collect and organize data based on the selected indicators.
- Analyze the results to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Implement changes and monitor progress over time for continuous improvement.
Unlike certification schemes, ETIS remains flexible and adaptable, making it suitable for destinations of all sizes and contexts.
Benefits for Destinations
By integrating ETIS, destinations can:
- Make informed decisions based on solid data
- Engage stakeholders in collaborative management
- Benchmark performance and compare with similar destinations
- Promote sustainable growth that respects local communities and ecosystems
Ultimately, ETIS empowers destinations to turn data into action, ensuring tourism remains a positive force for both people and the planet.