Borkum, Germany, situated within the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been recognised as a best practice by the Sustainable EU Tourism project for its sustainable tourism transformation. 

Confronted with pressing issues such as seasonal labour shortages, housing constraints, infrastructure pressure, and climate vulnerability, the island responded with the forward-looking "Living Space Borkum 2030+" strategy. 

Developed in close collaboration with residents and officially adopted in 2023, the strategy embraces a holistic vision of sustainable development, climate neutrality, and inclusive planning across all aspects of island life. 

Guided by a representative steering group, the strategy’s creation involved extensive public participation through workshops and community events to ensure widespread support. Flagship initiatives, such as the "Borkum 2030 – climate-neutral island" and the Wadden Sea Learning Center, bridge tourism, environmental awareness, and education.

Borkum’s approach showcases how strategic competence, data-driven management, adaptive planning cycles, consistent funding, and active community involvement can redefine a destination. It has strengthened the island’s identity as a sustainable, resilient community and serves as a model for balancing environmental, social, and economic priorities through inclusive, future-oriented development. 

For more details on the key challenges the destination has faced, and the solutions implemented to address them, please refer to the attached document