The recent E-Coaching session on “Immersive Tech in Sustainable Cultural Tourism,” held on November 26, 2024, provided an in-depth look at how virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are transforming the cultural tourism sector. This engaging online event brought together professionals, tourism operators, and sustainability advocates to discuss how cutting-edge technologies are paving the way for more eco-friendly and engaging travel experiences. The webinar was held by the CulturalDeTour project.
A key focus of the session was the role of immersive technology in enhancing tourism. Far from being merely entertaining, VR and AR emerged as powerful tools for storytelling and education, enabling travellers to experience historical sites and cultural landmarks in ways that minimize physical impact on delicate environments. By recreating these experiences virtually, technology offers a sustainable alternative to traditional tourism.
The webinar also explored how immersive tech supports sustainable tourism by providing low-impact visitor experiences. Attendees were introduced to examples where VR and AR have been used to create meaningful interactions that respect the integrity of natural and cultural sites. These innovative approaches reduce the environmental footprint of tourism while maintaining rich, immersive experiences for travellers.
Another significant theme was the preservation of cultural heritage. Immersive technologies are increasingly being used to digitally safeguard endangered cultural sites and artifacts. The session featured inspiring examples of virtual reconstructions, showcasing how these tools can keep cultural legacies accessible to future generations while protecting them from physical degradation.
Participants were particularly drawn to the real-world success stories presented during the session. These case studies demonstrated the tangible benefits of integrating VR and AR into tourism practices, from increasing accessibility to fostering a deeper connection between travellers and the destinations they explore.
The session concluded with a sense of optimism about the future of cultural tourism. By blending innovation with sustainability, immersive technologies offer a pathway to reshape the tourism industry in ways that respect both the environment and cultural heritage. The insights shared during the webinar provided participants with practical ideas to implement in their own work, underscoring the value of technology in driving responsible and impactful tourism.
