Discover all the details of the FiturNext 2026 Challenge: how tourism can contribute to efficient and responsible water management

The 2026 Challenge is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to promote the right to clean and healthy water, health and well-being, climate action and responsible production and consumption, among others. Initiatives in this area can register on this online form until 31 August. All initiatives will be analysed according to the criteria of a replicability and impact barometer, 12 will be selected and 3 will be awarded during the International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) in 2026.

The importance of the 2026 Challenge

Access to water is one of the great global challenges of our time. According to UN figures, more than one billion people in the world still lack access to safe drinking water, and 99.5% of the world's water is unfit for human consumption. Moreover, the water crisis will only worsen: it is estimated that the urban population exposed to water scarcity will double in the coming decades, from 930 million in 2016 to between 1.7 and 2.4 billion in 2050.

But what role does tourism play in this problem? The reality is that water consumption in tourist areas is much higher than in other environments. While an average resident uses about 127 litres of water per day, a tourist can consume between 450 and 800 litres per day. This puts enormous pressure on the water resources of destinations, especially those already facing water stress.

Does your tourism initiative promote responsible water use? FiturNext is looking for you!

FiturNext opens its call for companies, public administrations, organisations and projects that promote the efficient use of water in tourism. The goal is clear: to identify innovative and replicable models that can inspire other destinations and actors in the sector to improve their relationship with water resources.

If your initiative works in this field, you can apply in one of the following categories:

• Destinations and other territories: Aimed at public administrations and territorial bodies that implement innovative strategies for the sustainable management of the water cycle.
• HORECA and transport sector: Focused on accommodation, catering and transport companies that apply solutions to optimise water use in their tourism services.
• Other agents in the tourism value chain: For travel agencies, operators, tourism experience companies and other entities with tools or initiatives that promote responsible water consumption in the industry.

The selected initiatives will not only be recognised as best practices in the sector, but will also be able to participate in FITUR 2026 activities, benefiting from the visibility and media impact of the FiturNext Observatory. In addition, they will have the opportunity to generate new synergies with other actors in the sector, broadening their scope and potential impact.

If you think your project can make a difference, don't miss this opportunity!