For this course, sustainability of the global travel and tourism industry is examined through the lenses of certifying organisations, local destinations, and multinational stakeholders. We will examine the economic, sociocultural and environmental effects of international tourism and hospitality establishments and understand the interconnectedness. The course is designed to help students understand the main principles and practices for sustainable tourism & hospitality development at the local, regional, national, and international level. You will be introduced to a series of tools to operate and manage tourism, hospitality services and destinations with sustainability. Case studies will be used to highlight examples of sustainability practices from around the world. International standards and indicators of sustainable tourism practices will also be introduced.

Course Learning Objectives:

• Discuss concepts and tools of sustainable tourism operation and management.
• Examine global tourism stakeholders and sustainable tourism organizations as base and support for sustainable tourism development.
• Evaluate the role of key international initiatives, organizations and stakeholders as support of sustainable tourism development.
• Identify and compare major international, national, regional and local labels, certification programs and different types of initiatives for business, attractions, cultural heritage, protected areas and tourism destinations in general.
• Introduce the concepts of Environmental Management Systems and Sustainability Reporting as new processes that companies and organizations are now adopting.
• Evaluate international case studies that demonstrate progress in sustainable tourism issues worldwide.

Course Outline

Topic 1 – Sustainability and Tourism

Topic 2 – Sustainable Tourism and the Triple Bottom Line

Topic 3 – Stakeholders and Sustainable Tourism

Topic 4 – The Sustainable Toolbox

Topic 5 – Planning for Sustainable Tourism

Topic 6 – Implementing the Sustainable Plan

Topic 7 –  Independent E-Learning Week

Topic 8 – Current Initiative in Sustainable Tourism

Topic 9 – Measuring the Results

Topic 10 – Case Studies in Eco-tourism Development

Topic 11 – Case Studies in Sustainable Hospitality Management

Topic 12 – Course Review