The future of tOUrism without a CArbon footpriNt

We applied for this project driven by our collective commitment to fostering sustainable practices in the tourism industry. Recognizing the pressing global challenges posed by climate change, we s...

Our project application was driven by a primary objective – to actively contribute to environmental preservation under the 'Green Deal' Circular Economy. We aimed to prevent harmful products from entering the EU market, aligning with the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, although current legislation only expected a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by then. Acknowledging tourism's significant role in the global economy, especially in the EU, where 12 million people worked in the industry, our focus was on addressing the environmental challenges linked to tourism. We aimed to foster sustainability, reduce waste, and minimize carbon emissions from tourism activities. Our specific goal was to enhance the professional development of SMEs, young entrepreneurs, and VET trainers. We wanted to provide knowledge and skills related to the Low-emission concept in the contemporary tourism industry. The anticipated outcomes included the m-learning solution (PR1) for the tourism sector, aimed at reducing carbon footprint, and the Recognition and Validation OER (PR2). These outcomes were strategically designed to significantly contribute to advancing sustainable practices in the tourism sector and aligning with the EU's overarching.

PR1, the seven modules were distributed among partners based on expertise, ensuring periodic checks for smooth development. Module topics were consulted with partners within WTGs, and subsequently, each partner created the content for their respective module according to the agreed-upon template. The content underwent internal evaluation (by other partners) and external evaluation (by partners within WTGs), utilizing survey questionnaires. The final version of training materials in Word/PDF format in English was created after incorporating feedback from the evaluation process. These materials were then translated into partner languages and implemented into the online training version (PR1). Similar steps were taken in preparing the validation test, where each partner formulated questions for their module and practical case studies. The validation test underwent internal and external evaluation, and after considering feedback identified through surveys, the final version was prepared in English in DOC/PDF format. After translation into national languages, the validation test was implemented into the online version (PR2). A crucial part of PR2 is the guide 'Tourism industry and validation – benefits, and importance,' enabling participants to broaden their knowledge of learning methodologies. Both the test and the guide were translated into national languages. Both PR1 and PR2 underwent testing to gather opinions on the developed training course. The m-learning solution underwent testing for device compatibility. Based on the testing results, minor linguistic adjustments were made to the courses in national languages. The project introduced an innovative online tool for competence validation in Circular Economy aspects, benefiting SMEs in non-formal learning and providing VET teachers/providers access to validations as needed. Project promotion was carried out throughout its implementation, with results disseminated during testing and promotional seminars organized by each partner.

The primary outcomes of the project comprise two Project Results: PR1, which is the TOUCAN m-learning solution for the tourism industry sector, and PR2, encompassing the TOUCAN recognition and validation test along with the user guide titled 'Tourism Industry Validation – Benefits & Importance.' PR1 consists of seven training modules addressing critical aspects: Module 1: Digital technology for sustainable development; Module 2: Energy saving at the place of accommodation; Module 3: Green reception basics of low-emission tourism activity; Module 4: The role of agropreneurs in the low-carbon process; Module 5: Carbon footprint and low-emission planning in tourist activities; Module 6: The role of tour operators and guides in the low-carbon process; Module 7: Rethink the business model for sustainable development. PR2 includes the TOUCAN recognition and validation test and the user guide 'Tourism Industry Validation – Benefits & Importance.' The test serves as a pre- and post-questionnaire for progress comparison, anticipating an average increase of about 55-60% between the pre- and post-results. It is crucial for SMEs in the tourism industry to be aware of the benefits and importance of validating skills, knowledge, and competences in the entrepreneurship setting. Unfortunately, reports indicate low awareness among SMEs and young entrepreneurs. The guide acts as a vital resource to raise awareness of possibilities for validating non-formal learning, explaining in detail the benefits of this process. The list of project results includes: PR1:  National versions of the final Word/PDF document (compilation of all modules)  English version of the final Word/PDF document  Online version of the learning course (in English and national languages of the partners) PR2:  National versions of the final Word/PDF document of the tourism guide 'Tourism Industry Validation – Benefits & Importance'  English version of the final Word/PDF document of the tourism guide 'Tourism Industry Validation – Benefits & Importance'  Online version of the validation course and guide (in English and national languages of the partners) Dissemination:  National and English versions of the brochure  National and English versions of the leaflet  Local Article 1 and Local Article 2 (all partners)  National and English versions of Newsletter 1, Newsletter 2, Newsletter 3, Newsletter 4 Website with the project results Additionally, throughout the project lifetime, partners generated results in the management, promotion, and evaluation areas. This includes plans, project space in the AdminProject online management system, meeting programs and reports, promotion plans, logos, websites, social media accounts, leaflets, newsletters, articles, materials for multiplier events, sustainability plans, and evaluation plans, questionnaires, and reports.