Author | M. Martínez EuklidiadasTourism is one of the sectors most directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also one of the major driving forces in summer. To save it, some European countries may adopt the green zone strategy proposed by the researcher Miquel Oliu-Barton (et al), who seeks to turn the continent into a ‘network- with controlled quarantines and open-transit zones. Can it work?
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected European tourism?
It has almost brought it to a complete halt, which is a major problem if we consider that tourism accounts for 10.3% of EU GDP and 11.7% of total employment, according to the European Parliament. Pursuant to the Eurostat, Spain and Italy were the most popular outbound tourism destinations and absolute leaders in nights spent in tourist accommodation in 2018.
What is the “green zoning” strategy?
With the aim of rescuing the European tourism sector, some EU members may follow a green zone strategy, which would include allowing people to travel between two seemingly virus-free zones, always emphasizing that zero-risk does not exist.The aim of this zoning is to reduce the spread of the virus but without punishing the eurozone economy. This solution involves a compromise between the minimum risk (closing borders) and maximum unemployment (closing tourism) by allowing flexibility while keeping the productive fabric alive. It is an extremely adaptable strategy that works at a country, region or city level.How does this Covid-19 exit strategy work?
