Overtourism strains infrastructure in Venice and Paris

The phenomenon of overtourism is placing significant strain on the infrastructure and natural environments of major European destinations. In Venice, the city faces immense challenges due to its lack of a modern, centralized sewage system. With an average of 82,000 daily visitors, the sheer volume of human waste puts extreme pressure on the city’s canals and local septic tanks, which must be emptied by vacuum boats during peak seasons.

This issue is highlighted by Florentina Holzinger’s controversial project, ‘Seaworld Venice,’ at the 61st Venice Biennale. The installation uses purified wastewater from public toilets to create an ecological allegory regarding the city’s metabolic load.

Similarly, Paris is struggling with the impact of tourist crowds and nighttime alcohol consumption on its historical monuments. To combat the damage caused by ammonia from public urination, city authorities have installed specialized eco-urinals in high-traffic areas to protect the city's heritage.