GreenStep has recently begun working in collaboration with UPEI instructor, Dee Enright, to deliver a hands-on learning experience by offering students the opportunity to observe and participate in the formal Sustainable Tourism Certification process of five Canadian tourism businesses.
The 4th year course, Sustainable Tourism Development, looks at the critical components of a sustainable tourism industry. Students are introduced to the management practices, as well as economic, social, cultural and environmental components of sustainability, and how they can be demonstrated and integrated into a business’ day to day operation. A major focus will be on challenges and impacts associated with sustainable tourism development, as well as the strategies for maximizing benefits and minimizing adverse effects.
Through the Sustainable Tourism Certification program, students will be invited to observe a one-on-one assessment with a tourism business and GreenStep advisor, where they will be introduced to the formally recognized Global Sustainable Tourism Council assessment criteria created by GreenStep, which evaluates the performance of a business across the four main categories of sustainability. Following the assessment review, the students will assist the business owners in providing the necessary evidence to support their results. Following the delivery of a two year custom action plan by the GreenStep advisor, students will be asked to create an implementation plan and a marketing strategy for their assigned business.
“GreenStep is thrilled to be supporting this learning initiative in partnership with UPEI, as it offers both a unique opportunity for the students to see first hand how sustainable tourism practices are integrated into a real life business, while also offering the participating business’ the opportunity to complete the Certification process and be provided with tangible action and implementation plans to help them in achieving their sustainability goals.” – Jenn Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism, GreenStep Solutions
“Being able to participate in the process that a tourism operator goes through in real time is invaluable. It will give students a much better understanding of the operational requirements, benefits and challenges of working towards sustainability and certification. GreenStep’s work aligns perfectly with the course which focuses on the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. Between the GreenStep team and the five operators, 33 students from nine countries will get hands-on exposure and make meaningful connections with leaders from across the Canadian tourism sector.” – Dee Enright, Sessional Instructor, UPEI
We would like to thank the following businesses for their participation in this inaugural project and wish them luck on this next step of their sustainability journey.
Participating Businesses
Nature Space Resort, Morell PEI – www.naturespaceresort.com
Gros Morne Inn, Shoal Brook, Nfld – www.grosmorneinn.com
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown, PEI – www.kingsplayhouse.com
Nahanni River Adventures & Canadian River Expeditions, Whitehorse, YK – www.nahanni.com
Four Nature Resort, Chelmsford, NB – www.natureresort.ca