Tourism is one of the most important economic and cultural assets of the South Baltic region. Cities and destinations such as Gdańsk, Rostock, Karlskrona, Bornholm, and Klaipėda attract more than 35 million visitors annually (Eurostat, 2022). While tourism generates employment opportunities and increases the visibility of the region, it also places growing pressure on the environment.

Tourists behave differently from local residents: they stay for shorter periods, often lack local knowledge, and tend to choose the most convenient options. The amount of waste generated and water consumed by a tourist can be up to twice as high per day as that of a local resident (UNWTO, 2023). In addition, tourists are more likely to rely on single-use products. Such consumption patterns threaten both the preservation of natural and cultural heritage and the quality of the visitor experience. To remain competitive, South Baltic destinations must ensure that sustainable choices are visible, accessible, and attractive to visitors.

The CIRCUS Project addresses these challenges and enhances the attractiveness, sustainability, and resilience of South Baltic destinations by promoting conscious tourism. This approach not only improves the visitor experience but also integrates circular economy and resource-efficiency principles into tourism services and infrastructure.

The project focuses not only on reducing environmental impacts but also on creating high-quality visitor experiences. CIRCUS introduces circular visitor management systems that help tourists make more sustainable choices without compromising comfort. At the same time, municipalities and tourist attractions are provided with opportunities to reduce waste, save resources, and strengthen their image as responsible, high-quality destinations.