MAST and MAST Plus together bring forward a complete, evidence-based Sustainability Solution, elevating their outputs from conceptual frameworks to validated, real-world tools. By connecting development and testing phases, the projects highlight scalable, high-impact solutions that drive sustainable transformation across Mediterranean tourism ecosystems.

1) a ‘study phase’ sub-menu, containing the results, deliverables and outputs of the initial project;

2) a ‘test phase’ sub-menu containing information on the proposed test areas and the content of these pilot schemes.

Test phase – Pilot areas and implementation

The MAST PLUS test phase is implemented across seven EU and IPA partner territories, reflecting the diversity of regulatory systems, market conditions and tourism ecosystems in the Mediterranean. These pilot areas provide the real-life environments required to validate the adaptability and effectiveness of the MAST Plus Sustainable Solution.

Within these territories, at least 50 accommodation SMEs actively participate in the pilot schemes, applying the Sustainability Protocol, Self-Assessment Tool and Implementation Manual in their daily operations. This structured deployment enables the assessment of sustainability maturity levels, the organisation of implementation steps and the improvement of certification readiness.

how different contextual factors—such as regulatory frameworks, digital readiness and support ecosystems—influence uptake. By distinguishing contextual barriers from design limitations, the project calibrates the solution to ensure its effectiveness and cross-border transferability.

The process is further reinforced through Communities of Practice, where SMEs, experts and support organisations engage in peer learning, feedback and co-creation. This ensures continuous adaptation during implementation and strengthens the long-term applicability of results beyond the pilot phase.

Pilot testing will be carried out across Mediterranean territories including Slovenia, Montenegro, Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Croatia, reflecting diverse regulatory, market and sustainability contexts.