Tivat is often described as the hidden gem of Montenegro, but the youngest town in the Boka Kotorska is already attracting a lot of attention. It is the first destination in Western Balkans awarded with the prestigious global recognition ― Green Destinations Bronze Award.
Tivat Municipality is also supporting upcoming major sustainability conference in the region, the Western Balkans ESG Summit that is organized by Sustineri Partners in partnership with Porto Montenegro, Government of Montenegro and Bloomberg Adria Network, and which will be held from 26th until 28th of April in Porto Montenegro.
“It is not by chance that we decided to hold the first major regional event dedicated to environmental, social, and governance topics in Tivat. As this event will bring political leaders, top government officials, business leaders, and investors for interactive discussions around critical ESG themes, including sustainable finance, green transition, and green innovation, we wanted to further promote this small coastal town with global sustainability vision”, said Biljana Braithwaite, CEO of Sustineri Partners, one of co-organizers of the ESG Summit.
Sustainability is at the heart of the identity of this small Mediterranean town. As great attention is given to preservation of its rich historical, natural, and cultural heritage, Tivat locals are also giving back to future generations. Negative environmental impact of tourism is a burden carried by many destinations, as tourism often puts pressure on natural resources, leading to increased pollution, natural habitat loss, and more pressure on endangered species. However, as Tivat shows, many of these negative environmental impacts can be evaded, with careful planning and innovative approaches.
"Sustainability is a central component of the Tivat brand: the aim is to continue to break new ground for sustainable development. This means, measurable and continuous improvements by social, environmental and economic measures. All the characteristics of an authentic Mediterranean town are to be retained by Tivat, offering its guests unique and diverse experiences with a modern, sustainable lifestyle – based on our rich historical, natural, and cultural heritage. Quality is always in focus", it was reported by the Tourism organisation of Tivat.
Some of the main facilities of Tivat are also recipients of prestigious environmental recognitions. Located directly by the sea in a traditional 19th century stone building, hotel Carrubba Tivat is the winner of the first Green Key in Montenegro, certificate awarded to businesses whose tourism establishments adhere to the strict criteria stipulated by the Foundation for Environmental Education. This hotel was awarded with this certificate for not only its excellence concerning sustainability criteria, but also for constantly improving its eco-standard, as it is committed to reducing and saving water consumption, partly generating energy from solar panels, and implementing energy conservation methods, upcycling, and recycling old fabrics, composting, etc.
Regent Porto Montenegro was also awarded with Green Key certification, the leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations within the tourism industry. Since its beginnings, Regent Porto Montenegro has been committed to sustainability and social responsibility. By adopting Sustainable Business Policy and through cooperation with international partners and the local community, this hotel is adhering to high environmental standards (including water saving, energy efficiency, waste management, cleaning, etc.) and ensuring the principle of equal opportunities in employment.
“We take pride in caring about our green footprint and we constantly strive to achieve sustainable practices, while ensuring the well-being of our staff and the local community we are part of. By doing so, we have not only had a positive impact on the environment, but also have contributed to creating a better world for current and future generations", Kai Dieckmann, general manager at Regent Porto Montenegro.
Transportation can also significantly contribute to degraded air quality, changing climate, noise, and water pollution, and it also affects ecosystems. To combat this issue, Tivat is promoting sustainable transportation for both its locals and visitors, and this small town has two self-service bike stations, as well as three e-car charging stations (at the public parking in Arsenalska Street, Eco gas station, Marina Porto Montenegro) and four more located in Lustica Bay.