FIRST MILE Practices Compendium

FIRST MILE Practices Compendium

Inspiration to make sustainability actionable in tourism SMEs

After almost 3 years of collaboration, experimentation, and learning, the FIRST MILE project is releasing of its Practices Compendium.

Developed by Open Tourisme Lab, this compendium presents 30 inspiring and replicable practices implemented by tourism SMEs across Norway, Slovenia, Italy, and France. It is the result of close monitoring and evaluation of more than 80 businesses engaged in the FIRST MILE journey.

A practical tool for real-world impact

Designed to help tourism SMEs bridge the gap between sustainability intentions and concrete action, this compendium showcases low-cost, high-impact initiatives based on behavioural science, integrated seamlessly into daily operations:

    • Practical behavioural tactics tested in real tourism settings
    • Solutions aligned with 8 key sustainability priorities
    • Clear insights into the business and sustainability benefits
Download the FIRST MILE Practices Compendium

Examples of practices and their impact

Improve waste management

Providing accessible infrastructure and clear guidance

85% reduction of non-recyclable waste per guest

70% of total waste is now recycled

Smart-use energy

Consistent awareness-raising and clear guest communication

–21.2% electricity cost reduction

compared to initial implementation phase

Smart-use water

Installing water fountains and providing reusable cups

+30% improvement in guest satisfaction

–100% plastic bottle use (fully eliminated since 2024)

Reduce single-use plastic

Transparent communication and easy access to water refill points

–100% plastic bottle use

(fully eliminated since 2024)

Reduce food waste

Small reductions in portions, better communication with guests and employees

75% reduction of food waste

per guest per breakfast

Improve visitor flow management

Booklet highlighting less-visited attractions and mobility options

100% of guests visited at least one less known place

Promote local food

Communicating key information to guests upon arrival

+11% Overnight guests choosing to eat dinner

–100% plastic bottle use (fully eliminated since 2024)

Smart mobility

Engaging children as an effective way to influence family behavior

30% more families used bikes during their stay

10 % less families used a car during their stay

Inspiration from a diversity of actors and territories across Europe

Find out more about the First Mile project

Tourism SMEs represent 76% of EU tourism employment, playing a decisive role in the sector’s environmental footprint. At the same time, travel and tourism account for 8.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with growing pressure for accountability and action.

As the First Mile project demonstrates, small, well-designed changes can trigger significant shifts in behaviour, resource use, and business performance.

Coming soon: the FIRST MILE Toolbox, with step-by-step guidance to apply behavioural tactics in your business.