Conference: “Sustainable Cities as Support for Sustainable Tourism and Economy”
The conference “Sustainable Cities as Support for Sustainable Tourism and Economy” was held in Rijeka on 8 May 2026, organized by the Croatian Corporate Governance Society. The conference brought together representatives of the public sector, business community, academia, and international institutions with the aim of exchanging experiences and discussing the development of sustainable urban environments in the context of contemporary economic, social, and climate challenges.
In their opening remarks, participants emphasized the importance of sustainability as a strategic priority for the development of cities and the economy, highlighting the need for stronger integration of public policies, innovation, and responsible governance. Particular emphasis was placed on sustainable urban development, climate change adaptation, digital transformation, circular business models, and sustainability in tourism and industry.
The conference program included a series of expert panels and discussions featuring representatives of public administration, leading Croatian and international companies, experts in urban planning, technology, sustainable development, and tourism, as well as members of the academic community. Discussions focused on the role of smart technologies and artificial intelligence in urban development, sustainable business models, economic competitiveness, and emerging social and demographic trends.
Particular attention was drawn to presentations on sustainable urban planning, the management of coastal city development, industrial transformation, and the role of quality management in creating long-term sustainable business systems. The need to maintain a balance between economic development, citizens’ quality of life, and the preservation of space and resources was highlighted.
Conference participants included Iva Rinčić, Ivica Lukanović, Hana Huzjak, Lana Lovrenčić Butković, Marko Dabrović, Goran Frković, Gorki Bratim, Vjekoslav Majetić, Klemen Šešok, Vedran Kirinčić, Vedran Vivoda, Ivan Marin, Valentina Keblar, Anita Knezović, Davor Kovčalija, Marinela Krstinić Nižić, Katarina Djulić, Marin Strmota, Sebastijan Orlić, Mario Mihaljević, Ernest Vlačić, and Andrijana Mušura Gabor.
It was concluded that sustainable cities require an integrated approach that connects effective public governance, innovative technologies, responsible business practices, and active cooperation among all stakeholders in society.
The conference was held with the support of the City of Rijeka, under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Croatia, and in partnership with the European Commission.
