News

3 international project meetings
2 parts of pilot course
60 course participants

End-of-project summary: Green Skills for Future Tourism (G4T)

2024-03-31

The Green Skills for Future Tourism (G4T) project, launched in February 2022, aimed to equip tourism professionals with green skills essential for the sector's sustainable evolution. Spanning over two years, this initiative responded to the urgent need for sector-specific training in the wake of the tourism industry's challenges compounded by the pandemic.

G4T was designed to develop a flexible, modular curriculum focusing on green skills crucial for sustainable tourism. The project sought to enhance the vocational education and training (VET) landscape by introducing innovative teaching methods and promoting lifelong learning among tourism professionals.

The project activities included a series of transnational meetings, the development and pilot testing of a CVET course on green skills, and several multiplier events aimed at disseminating the project results. Partners across Italy, Portugal, Greece, Bulgaria, Poland, and Lithuania collaborated to create and refine the curriculum and training materials.

Key achievements of G4T include the creation of a gamified CVET course, production of a trainer’s manual, and the establishment of micro-credentials for course modules. The project reached over 800 stakeholders in the sustainable tourism and education sectors, significantly raising awareness and skills among tourism professionals.

The project was a collaborative effort involving six partner organizations from across Europe, each bringing unique insights and expertise to the table, thus fostering a rich exchange of best practices.

One of the primary challenges was adapting to the digital demands of the project amidst varying degrees of digital literacy among participants. The project team addressed this through tailored digital skills training, enhancing overall engagement and effectiveness.

Looking forward, the G4T curriculum and resources will continue to be available to VET providers and tourism companies, ensuring long-term impact. Plans are in place to expand the reach of the training modules and explore further applications of the gamification strategies developed.

G4T has set a new benchmark for sustainability in tourism training, equipping future professionals with the skills needed to drive the green transition in the tourism sector. The project's legacy will continue through ongoing training programs and curriculum adoption across Europe.

Last newsletter

2024-03-30

Successful round of Multiplier events for the G4T project

2024-03-30

Dear G4T Partners and Supporters,

We are excited to share that our series of Multiplier Events across Europe this past month was a resounding success! These events were pivotal in disseminating the outcomes and insights from the Green Skills for Future Tourism (G4T) project to a broader audience, including stakeholders within the sustainable tourism sector.

Event Highlights:

  • Locations: Poland, Portugal, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, and Lithuania
  • Focus: Presentations of the G4T curriculum and training materials
  • Participants: Over 300 attendees including educators, industry professionals, policy makers, and representatives from vocational training organizations

The events provided a platform for lively discussions on the implementation of sustainable practices in tourism and showcased the innovative teaching methods developed throughout the G4T project. Attendees gained firsthand knowledge of the project’s impact and the potential for applying its outcomes within their own operations.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, speakers, and organizing teams who contributed to the success of these events. Your enthusiasm and commitment have been instrumental in advancing the project's goals.

Stay tuned for more updates and resources from the G4T project, including detailed reports and multimedia content from the Multiplier Events, which will soon be available on our website.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to fostering sustainable tourism through education.

Final partner meeting in Portugal

2024-01-19

We have reached a successful completion of our final project meeting, which took place in Penacova and the historic city of Coimbra, Portugal. Despite challenging weather conditions across Central Europe, including stormy winds and snow, the dedication of our partners ensured that most attendees were able to travel and participate in this crucial gathering.

This meeting was a pivotal moment for our project, providing an opportunity for partners to come together to reflect on our achievements and to strategize for the future. The discussions were fruitful, setting the stage for the next steps in our journey toward sustainable and impactful outcomes.

Coming home for Christmas

2023-12-15

As the festive season approaches, Christmas travel plays a significant role in rejuvenating spirits and strengthening bonds among families and communities. This time of year is pivotal for the tourism industry, offering unique opportunities and challenges alike.

Key Aspects of Christmas Travel:

  • Cultural Exchange: Christmas travel enhances understanding and appreciation of diverse festive traditions and customs, fostering global cultural exchange and mutual respect.
  • Economic Boost: The holiday season significantly boosts local economies as travelers spend on accommodation, dining, and shopping, supporting small businesses and local artisans.
  • Family and Community: Travel during the Christmas season is often centered around family reunions, creating lifelong memories and reinforcing family ties, which are essential for social cohesion and community resilience.
  • Sustainable Practices: With the increasing awareness of sustainable travel, many tourists are now choosing eco-friendly options, contributing to the conservation of holiday destinations and promoting responsible tourism.
  • Mental Health Benefits: Escaping the routine to explore new places during Christmas can have a rejuvenating effect on mental health, providing a much-needed break and a fresh perspective as the year ends.

Christmas travel not only helps in strengthening economic and cultural ties but also plays a crucial role in personal well-being and global understanding. Let us embrace the spirit of the season by traveling thoughtfully and celebrating responsibly.

Wishing you all safe travels and joyful celebrations this Christmas season!

Pilot classes have been completed

2023-11-06

We have reached the successful completion of our Sustainable Tourism Pilot Course! Over the course of 10 enriching days, participants from the project countries gathered in Italy and Greece to deepen their understanding of sustainable tourism practices through a comprehensive curriculum.

Course Highlights:

🌱10 days of lectures
🌱13 modules
🌱 29 participants in 🇮🇹Italy
🌱 31 participants in 🇬🇷Greece

Our graduates are now returning home with not only their well-deserved certificates but also invaluable new friendships and memories that will inspire their professional journeys and personal lives for years to come.

Accomplishments to Celebrate:

  • Engagement: Participants engaged deeply with each module, applying what they learned in a collaborative, real-world context.
  • Certification: Each participant has earned a certificate of completion, recognizing their commitment and expertise in sustainable tourism.
  • Community Building: The course fostered a network of passionate individuals eager to drive change in the tourism industry.

We are incredibly proud of each participant for their hard work and dedication. Their new skills and knowledge equip them to lead the charge toward a more sustainable and responsible global tourism industry.

Pilot course in Greece brings students and trainers together once again

2023-10-31
Partners and students from 🇵🇹Portugal, 🇮🇹Italy, 🇬🇷Greece, 🇵🇱Poland, 🇧🇬Bulgaria and 🇱🇹Lithuania came together for the pilot course in the beautiful resort of Loutraki in Greece.

This event marks another significant milestone in our journey, bringing together dedicated partners and enthusiastic students from Portugal, Italy, Greece, Poland, Bulgaria, and Lithuania.

The first days of the training have been filled with inspiring sessions and collaborative learning, set against the backdrop of Loutraki's stunning natural beauty. The diverse mix of cultures and perspectives has enriched the experience, fostering a vibrant learning environment.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ευρωπρόοδος Εκπαιδευτικός Όμιλος for their warm hospitality and exceptional organization, which have made these initial days not only productive but also truly memorable.

Early feedback from participants highlights the practical insights and innovative approaches being shared, as well as the strong connections being forged among the international cohort. These relationships are poised to transform not just their own careers but also the broader field of sustainable tourism.

Thank you to everyone involved for making this possible. Your passion and commitment continue to drive our collective success.

Students are traveling to Greece for Pilot course

2023-10-28

We are once again happy to announce that a select group of our students are on the way to Loutraki, Greece to participate in an intensive pilot course focused on green tourism. This innovative program is designed to equip participants with advanced knowledge and skills to lead the way in sustainable tourism practices.

The course will delve into several critical areas of sustainable tourism through engaging and practical modules:

  • Sustainable Hospitality: Exploring practices that accommodation and service providers can implement to operate sustainably.
  • Sustainability Certifications: Understanding the criteria and benefits of various sustainability certifications within the tourism industry.
  • Circular Economy and Application to Tourism: Applying circular economy principles to reduce waste and promote recycling and upcycling within the tourism sector.
  • Enogastronomy and Sustainable Tourism: Merging culinary arts with sustainable practices, emphasizing local and seasonal produce to enhance the tourist experience.
  • How to Look and Find a Job in Sustainable Tourism: Providing tools and strategies for successfully finding employment in the eco-friendly tourism sector.
  • Self Employment and (Social) Entrepreneurship: Encouraging innovative entrepreneurial ventures that contribute to sustainable tourism.
  • Project Work/Simulation: Practical application of learned skills through the design of an ecotourism itinerary in a real-world setting.

This course aims to empower our students with the competencies needed to innovate and lead in sustainable tourism. By understanding and implementing sustainable practices, they will contribute significantly to the industry's transformation and growth.

We are incredibly proud of our students who are embarking on this journey. Their engagement in this course will not only enhance their capabilities but also pave the way for more responsible and sustainable tourism practices globally.

3d newsletter to help navigate career in Green Tourism

2023-10-10

First Pilot course is out

2023-09-25

Students and trainers from Lithuania, Poland, Bulgaria, Greece, Portugal and Italy took part in a pilot training organised by the ERASMUS+ funded project "Green skills for future tourism" (G4T) in Emilia Reggio, Italy.

Throughout the course, participants immersed themselves in both theoretical and practical aspects of sustainable tourism. They explored innovative design techniques for creating sustainable travel itineraries and learned the intricacies of organizing eco-friendly events. A key component of the training involved discussions on how to effectively seek and secure employment in the growing field of sustainable tourism, as well as how to embark on entrepreneurial ventures within the industry.

One of the highlights of the pilot course was the visits to exemplary agro-tourism educational sites in the region. These visits provided invaluable hands-on experience and insights into the practical application of sustainable practices in a real-world setting.

The enthusiasm and engagement from all participants have been tremendous. The skills and knowledge gained are not only beneficial for their professional development but also instrumental in shaping the future of sustainable tourism.

We look forward to building on the success of this pilot course with additional training sessions and will continue to share updates on the progress and impact of the "Green Skills for Future Tourism" project.

Thank you to all participants and trainers for making this pilot course a resounding success. Your active involvement is crucial in driving the change towards more sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Special thank you goes out to the local organizer IFOM Soc. Coop. Sociale, Italy | Lead partner

Students travel to Italy for the Pilot course

2023-09-17

We are thrilled to announce that a select group of our students are traveling to Bologna, Italy to participate in a week-long pilot course on green tourism. This unique educational experience is designed to equip the next generation of tourism professionals with the skills needed to lead and innovate in the evolving travel industry.

Course Overview:

The curriculum of this specialized course includes several key modules aimed at promoting sustainability within the tourism sector:

  • Design Techniques for Sustainable Itineraries: Students will learn how to create travel itineraries that minimize environmental impact while maximizing visitor engagement.
  • Design of Experiential Tourism Packages: This module focuses on crafting immersive experiences that connect travelers with local cultures, communities, and environments in meaningful ways.
  • Design of Ecotourism Packages: Participants will explore ways to develop tours that support conservation efforts and educate tourists about environmental stewardship.
  • Sustainable Mobility: The course will cover strategies to incorporate eco-friendly transportation options into tourism planning.
  • Cycling Tourism: Students will examine the growing field of cycling tourism and its benefits for health and environment.
  • Organisation of Sustainable Events: This practical module will teach students how to select suitable locations, manage waste, and implement recycling programs during events.

We are proud to support our students as they embark on this educational journey, and we eagerly anticipate the innovative ideas and projects that will emerge from their experiences.

Green tourism - green hotels

2023-08-24
Be inspired by 🏨hotels⛱ that want to offer their guests the greatest possible experience while protecting the environment. Hotels that run their operations in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner, taking into account every minute aspect.
Learn from actual case studies and a database full of suggestions for implementing green purchasing, green communication, and other best practises.

The global Tourism Plastic Initiative

2023-08-24
With a shared goal to solve the underlying causes of plastic pollution, the tourism industry is brought together through the 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞. It makes it possible for companies, governments, and other tourist stakeholders to act jointly and set an example for the transition to circular plastics usage.
You can discover tools and information at the URL provided below to assist the tourism industry with the eradication of single-use plastics, the introduction of reusable products, engagement and collaboration with value chain participants, or suggestions for additional steps to reduce plastic pollution.

The Trave Foundation's Guide to Sustainable Practice for tourism businesses

2023-08-16
Since 2013, the Travel Foundation has supported destinations and the travel sector in implementing sustainability practices. This introductory PDF document is jam-packed with useful advice to help any business get started on a sustainability journey, including case studies from top responsible travel companies and questions to ask suppliers.

 

Selection of participants for G4T Pilot course completed

2023-08-06

We are pleased to announce that the selection process for participants in the pilot course of the project has been successfully completed. We extend our sincere gratitude to all applicants who expressed interest in joining this innovative training program.

A total of 24 participants have been chosen through a competitive selection process, focusing on diversity and motivation to engage with sustainable tourism practices. The selected group includes professionals from the tourism sector, vocational education trainees, and individuals seeking to transition into tourism from other industries.

We wish to thank all our partners and collaborators for their support in the selection process and course preparation. This pilot course represents a significant step toward our shared goal of fostering sustainable practices in the tourism industry through targeted education and training.

For those who were not selected this time, please stay connected with us for future opportunities and continue to follow the progress of the G4T project. We value your continued interest and support.

Thank you for your commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, and congratulations to our selected participants. We look forward to a productive and inspiring learning experience.

Are you interested in learning about the sustainable tourism?

2023-07-16

IF YOU ARE between 18-30 and study TOURISM (or already have your degree),

You are invited to a two weeks training experience on Sustainable tourism in Greece and Italy in September and October.

For more information, please look at the Infopack G4T

or individual Partners websites.

Green tourism

2023-06-30
🅶🅡🅴🅔🅽 🆃🅞🆄🅡🅸🅢🅼 in Europe is a multi-level governance process that involves all stakeholders, including the industry, tourist destinations, national, regional, and local governments, as well as the consumer, the traveller. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, sustainable tourism development "takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities."
Growing demand and expectations from travellers and host communities over the past few years have elevated sustainable travel to the forefront of Europe's tourism agenda. If industry and tourist destinations in the EU took steps to green the tourism ecosystem, they might help cut carbon emissions, improve environmental protection, save money, and become more competitive. Travellers will enjoy their journeys more if they contribute positively to the areas they are visiting.

Green tourism

2023-06-15

𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 💚 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 is a term which describes eco-friendly vacations, has several diverse meanings. Eco-friendly travel and green hospitality are both included in green tourism. The green tourism concept is extremely appealing to travel businesses and operators due to growing government pressure to enhance environmental performance through adoption of practical and effective environmental management strategies. In addition, winning and promoting prestigious environmental awards could have a significant positive impact on the tourism industry. As a result, many considerate and responsible people and organisations have suggested using green tourist products to reduce the harmful consequences of the sector.

2nd newsletter

2023-06-15

The second TPM in Poland

2023-04-22

The second TPM meeting occurred on 20-21 April in Wroclaw, Poland. The Polish partner Dolnoslaska Federacja Organizacj Pozarzadowych hosted this meeting and shared their beautiful city with the G4T team.

 

First newsletter is here

2023-03-28

The first year of the project is coming to an end, and we are very pleased to share with you what we have accomplished so far. Click to download 👇

First newsletter G4T

Project flyer

2023-03-27

All information about the project can be found on our flyer. Click to download 👇

G4T-Flyer

The Awareness Campaign

2023-01-31

The project's awareness campaign is addressed to potential VET learners with fewer opportunities, CVET organizations and staff, and stakeholders to raise awareness in the framework of the EU Green Deal for sustainable tourism and EU Strategy on Sustainable Tourism It will consist of online and offline events in all the project countries. The aim is to promote and discuss the framework of sustainable tourism provided by the EU Green Deal and the EU Strategy on Sustainable Tourism, focusing on the target group's needs. It will consist of conferences, seminars, world cafés, and round tables tailored to the target group of potential learners managed in each country.

Where do we get our news?

2023-01-15
In order to deliver the most recent updates on UNWTO's efforts and significant insights from the world of tourism as the industry leads the way in attaining the Sustainable Development Goals, 𝐔𝐍 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 was launched in September 2019 to coincide with the commencement of the United Nations' "Decade of Action."

Tourism education

2022-12-06

In today’s rapidly evolving travel industry, education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of sustainable tourism, the importance of targeted educational initiatives has never been more crucial.

Key Highlights of Tourism Education:

  • Sustainability Focus: Tourism education equips professionals with the necessary skills to implement eco-friendly practices that minimize environmental impacts and promote cultural preservation.
  • Innovation and Adaptability: Courses and training programs are designed to keep pace with technological advancements, enabling the tourism sector to adapt to new trends and consumer demands efficiently.
  • Economic Impact: Well-informed tourism professionals contribute significantly to local economies by enhancing visitor experiences, increasing tourist satisfaction, and driving sustainable economic development.
  • Global Perspectives: Education in tourism fosters a global outlook, preparing students to handle diverse cultures and international tourists with sensitivity and respect.
  • Career Opportunities: A solid educational background in tourism opens a wide range of career paths in sectors like hotel management, event planning, tourism marketing, and ecological conservation.

As we continue to support and develop tourism education programs, we are committed to preparing a workforce that is not only skilled but also ethically attuned to the needs of the planet and its people.

Join us in advancing the cause of sustainable and responsible tourism through education. Together, we can ensure a thriving future for the global tourism industry.

Partner meeting in Bologna, Italy

2022-11-29

The first in-person partner meeting took place on 2022.10 16-17 in Bologna, Italy. The 6 European partners shared their knowledge, discussed the project progress, and divided the upcoming tasks of project implementation.

The timetable of the flexible modular curriculum and blended gamified CVET course on green skills for sustainable tourism was determined.

Project announcement

2022-11-24

In recent times, attention to sustainability is increasingly growing. The Next Generation EU dedicates a significant part of its funds to ecological and green transition. At the same time, the new European Green Deal provides an action plan to make the EU's economy sustainable, in line with SDGs from Agenda 2030. In order to seize these opportunities, it is essential to create flexible and updated education and training opportunities in the sector of green tourism.

The project has a duration of 24 months, and its main target groups are people that obtained a tourism qualification and never entered the job market or lost their job and NEETs.

 These are the project objectives:

1 - Developing competencies in the field of green tourism through the creation of 3 international CVET

curriculum focused on sustainable hospitality and services, ecological transition, valorisation of territories

and communities;

2 - Increasing the quality and relevance of CVET training activities;

3 - Enhancing the exchange and cooperation between CVET providers and companies and organisations

active in the field of green tourism at an international level, boosting their ability to operate in transnational

cross-border and cross-sectoral synergies;

4 - Deepening the interest and motivation of potential VET learners towards green jobs in the tourism sector and continuous education and training.

The project brings together 6 European partners with experience in the CVET and sustainable tourism fields

  • Leading partner, IFOM Soc. Coop. Sociale, Italy
  • EBA, Portugal
  • Europroodos educational group single member private company, Greece
  • Ecosystem Europe Association, Bulgaria
  • Dolnoslaska Federacja Organizacj Pozarzadowych, Polonia
  • Nida culture and tourism information centre "Agila", Lithuania

With the G4T project, we strive to create trans-European knowledge around green skills acquisition in the tourism sector to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals, accomplishing a change of mindset around the tourist industry.

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