Before we go…..

We could do an entire programme on Sustainable Tourism – let alone a short unit – but there are some things that within the context of this unit we have not been able to lot at thus far.  This final session gives us the opportunity to do just that.

These issues might include:

1. The UNWTOs global code of Tourism Ethics. This is the world’s ‘highest’ tourism body… it has researched and produced a code with global applicability to apply to all ‘players’ in the Tourism market: national (regional and local) governments, Tourism NGOs, tour operators, travel agents, suppliers/infrastructure providers, and tourist & host communities.  So, clearly it is important; clearly it is well thought-out, promoted, understood, respected, applied and acknowledged by all and policed accordingly….  Clearly.  …………  But is it?    Read, analyse and evaluate each of the articles and consider whether they are capable of changing the Tourism terms of trade (how the industry actually operates).  Pay particular attention to the word ‘should’ and its meaning….

http://www.unwto.org/ethics/full_text/en/pdf/Codigo_Etico_Ing.pdf

2. Labeling Schemes. What ARE these?  What do they seek to do?  Are some ‘official’ and some not so? Which applies to what? If you are a hotelier what scheme(s) do you consider? Do tourists even know about such schemes? What are their logos – do you recognise them?  Start by searching as if you were a hotelier or a tourist.  Do also have a look at:

http://www.afnor.org/index.php//profils/activite/tourisme/certification-et-evaluation/liste-des-certifications