EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme: Empowering Tourism SMEs
The EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme provides knowledge and empowerment for tourism SMEs in the West Mediterranean region. This specialised online training course is designed to equip participants with essential knowledge in marine and tourism-related policies and actions, while also enhancing their digital competences. Kick-started in Autumn 2023, the programme has benefited tourism SMEs and tourists in many different ways! Let's delve into the details of this transformative initiative.
The EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme aims to empower tourism SMEs by providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate sustainable tourism. Through a series of specialised online training modules.
But not only, the Capacity Building Programme is for the tourism SMEs, but the project also elaborate didactic materials for schools and teachers! Recognising the importance of education in fostering sustainable practices from a young age, the programme also targets schools and teachers as complementary components. By integrating eco-smart packages into school curricula, the programme seeks to instil environmental awareness and responsibility in future generations, ensuring a lasting impact on the region's tourism industry.
The journey…
Since its launch in Autumn 2023, the EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme has embarked on a journey of knowledge boosting with tourism SMEs in the West Mediterranean. Through engaging online modules and interactive learning experiences, participants have been equipped with the tools and expertise needed to drive sustainable change in the industry. The programme is hosted on the Moodle Platform, offering participants the flexibility to access course materials and complete modules at their own pace and convenience. This fully online format ensures accessibility for participants from diverse backgrounds and locations, making it easier for them to balance their learning with their professional commitments. By focusing on knowledge in marine and tourism-related policies, actions, and digital competences, the EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous tourism industry in the West Mediterranean region. Through education, empowerment, and collaboration, participants are equipped to drive positive change and create a future where sustainable tourism is the norm.
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On March 20th 2024, the Community-based Design Thinking Workshop organized in Italy was held in Grado at the Sala del Consiglio GIT (Grado Impianti Turistici S.p.A.). The goal of the workshop was to present the eco-smart tourism package and discuss the itinerary designed for Grado, adapting it to the ideas and suggestions presented by the local stakeholders. Therefore, after the presentation of the EU WeMED NA_Tour Project, its goals, and the eco-tourism packages for students, the participants were then invited to sit together to give feedback and discuss how sustainable and digital measures are or could be implemented into the local context. To define the itinerary of the eco-smart tourism package, activities and places suggested were annotated on the virtual whiteboard with the aid of a virtual map. Among the ideas and topics discussed, the usefulness of the following emerged: making accommodation facilities in Grado aware of the opportunities offered by the eco-smart tourism package and how the local community and the local economy could benefit from them, even on the long term reassuring Grado’s accommodation facilities that students are responsible travellers, thanks to the didactic materials provided providing schools using the didactic materials with a sort of certificate/quality stamp to testify these schools are trained to organize a sustainable and responsible trip.
On March 19th the workshop in Mauritania was held at the headquarters of the National Tourism Office (ONT), partner of the project, in the presence of the main professionals of the Mauritanian tourism scene and representatives of the ONT. The participants, including tour operators with over 20 years of experience in the sector, to whom the EU WeMED Na_TOUR project was presented, were trained on the activity, safety and health of schoolchildren and eco-tourism packages with the aim of designing the ECO-Smart travel itinerary for pilot trip in Mauritania, through the integration of the services provided by local operators. Among the goals of the training, largely achieved, below the priorities: presenting the itinerary requirements for students' Eco-Smart trip to Mauritania identifying and sharing needs, expectations and concerns regarding the safety and health of schoolchildren, but also the mobilization and awareness of the local community mapping tour operators' services to identify potential integrations and synergies reflecting on the action plan and mutual collaborative commitment, pursuing sustainable practices while respecting the environment. Participants and ONT members identified potential integrations and synergies with the help of an interactive map, and then expressed their thoughts on redefining services and collaborations. For the local trips, they have selected the city of Nouadhibou as the main destination.
Transforming the universal concept of sustainability into concrete actions in tourism means working on two fundamental dimensions, valid for each kind of leisure tourism, also for school travels. The first is that of the timeline , which in tourism means aiming for a seasonality of tourism during 12 months a year, reducing excess human load in the most crowded destinations mainly in summer. It works by attracting those high-spending and long-haul markets that can bring economy to tourism areas and those that choose to travel outside of crowds. We are talking about the US market, the Central and South American ones and about Asia, which have contributed to ensuring that today the foreign share in Europe is more incisive in the spring months and in the September-October period. On this approach school tourism is naturally engaged in this process of enlargement of seasonality of flows, because during the crowded period schools are closed. The second dimension is that of space , responding to the need to move flows from the large well-known hubs towards lesser-known tourism destinations, those hidden gems waiting to be discovered like villages which so much represent the authenticity of European culture and society, of the past, of the present and of the future. Particularly related to seaside destinations, the discovering of new and less known seaside landscapes, where students can really feel the nature and contribute to its protection, with activities oriented to enhance the value of cultural and natural local heritage in concrete experiences, can be a gift for the destinations as it can be a gift for the students in terms of enrichment and empowerment of their skills.
Get ready for an extraordinary journey through the captivating West Mediterranean region! From the sun-soaked shores of Portugal to the ancient wonders of Italy, this adventure promises to be an unforgettable learning experience. 1. Unveiling Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Portugal's history is brimming with tales of exploration and discovery. Let us unravel the adventures of fearless explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, who set sail from Portugal's shores to chart new territories and trade routes, opening up the world to new possibilities. 2. Festive Vibes in the Balearic Islands. The Balearic Islands are renowned for their vibrant festivals and rich cultural heritage. They offer an array of exciting festivities for us to experience. Let's soak up the island rhythms, sample delicious local cuisine, and create unforgettable memories as we journey through this dynamic region. 3. Pasta, Pizza, and Gelato: Exploring Italy's Culinary Heritage. Italy is a feast for the senses! Let's tantalize our taste buds with mouthwatering pasta, pizza, and gelato as we delve into Italy's rich culinary heritage. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the historic streets of Rome, Italy offers a culinary adventure like no other. 4. Coastal Marvels and Marine Wonders in Mauritania. Prepare for an awe-inspiring exploration of Mauritania's diverse coastal ecosystems. Delve into the marine biodiversity of the region. Did you know that mangrove forests and tidal zones serve as vital nurseries for marine life and provide essential protection against coastal erosion? 5. Time Travel through UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located in the West Mediterranean region, proving the richness in culture and traditions that these destinations hold and the high value they represent for their visitors. Which is your favorite UNESCO WHS? Which ones do you want to discover in your next trip? 6. Cultural Crossroads and Global Flavors. The West Mediterranean is a vibrant blend of cultures and flavors. Explore Mauritania's bustling markets, Portugal's lively streets, and Spain's authentic paella. In Italy, savor the aroma of freshly made pasta and indulge in gelato. Each destination offers a unique culinary and cultural experience, making this region a feast for the senses. So pack your bags, grab your documents, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! The West Mediterranean awaits, and we cannot wait to explore it with you.
Exploring Sustainable Tourism in the West Mediterranean: 4 Fun Facts You Might Not Know of!
In summer, coastal areas continue to be the preferred destinations for domestic and international tourists, but they also have a certain appeal all over the year. In Italy, bookings of availability in accommodation establishments on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) channels stood at around 46.0% between June and August (June 46.5%; July 45.3%; August 45.2%).
Based on an Italian study developed by Studio Giaccardi & associati from the answers of over 1,098 interviews between 2022 and 2023 throughout the national territory, published on June 2023, it emerges that the so-called "heat factor", i.e. the intense heat waves that characterized 2022, but which are also continuing this summer, act as a "transversal dominant factor". The results of the questionnaire were used to develop eight metrics useful for measuring how the consequences of climate change are perceived at a social level. Starting from the answers obtained, analysis were drawn up on the key aspects that emerged from the interviews, namely: Factors caused by climate change . The 'heat factor' and one of the main consequences are the melting of glaciers, known to 76.8% of those interviewed, the increase in temperatures (68.3%) and drought (66.9%). But there is also a considerable sensitivity to the impact of 'storms, floods and rising sea levels (34.7%). Consequences of climate change on the life of the interviewees . In this context, concerns related to contingencies prevail, i.e. the increase in living costs (62.3% of the rate of impact factors), but the "anxiety factor" is also strong, with 41.3% of the responses to more options. Consequences of climate change on the activity of the interviewees . Also in this case the concern for the increase in energy costs stands out, with 61.7% of the answers to multiple options, as well as a significant component of the "anxiety factor" (31.7%). The most evident climatic impacts on the area of residence of the interviewee . The almost unanimous choice of the sample of respondents was the "impact of heat and drought", with 93.7% of the answers. The need to plant trees in the city . Here too the prevailing choice was "yes", with 94.8% of the answers. Knowledge of the 17 Goals of the 2030 UN Agenda . The survey revealed that the majority, i.e. 51.6%, of the interviewees did not know the 17 Goals of the 2030 UN Agenda. Furthermore, compared to the sample that responded positively to the last question, it emerges that with regard to the question "Which are the most useful Goals of the UN Agenda 2030 among those referring to tourism and local development?", Goal 11 "Sustainable cities and communities" is mainly indicated (48%) , Goal 12 "Sustainable consumption and production" (44.1%) and Goal 7 "Clean and accessible energy" (40.1%). Priorities in combating the climate emergency . There is a "strong propensity for clarity and concreteness" and in fact the majority response is the request to "act immediately and invest concretely" to counter the impacts of climate change, an answer given by 39.3% of the sample.
Which are the next steps of the project EU WeMED_NaTOUR for making a blue impact on the Mediterranean and stopping the detrimental impact of the tourism industry? EU WeMED_NaTOUR Project, co-funded by the EU EMFAF programme with a fund managed by CINEA, brings in transnational cooperation and cross-sectorial efforts to present Capacity Building Programme and Eco-smart school trips to improve the economic development in a resilient way. From Italy to Spain, Spain to Portugal, and Portugal to Mauritania, EU WeMED_NaTOUR united experts from different sectors to bring forward the solutions of making a change in the Mediterranean, taking the environmental and economic development of the destinations seriously. Research after research, study after study, meeting after meeting, the project is delighted to engage tourism SMEs and schools in this journey ! EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme Started in October, the EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme gives the opportunity for tourism SMEs to take part in an online course, giving a 360° outlook on sustainable tourism and the blue economy. The programme is composed of practical recommendations related to the environment, community engagement, and strategies for communicating to continuously elevate the business. Tourism SMEs are indeed the key to the change. By raising consciousness and awareness of sustainability, the tourism sector will be transformed day by day, into a more sustainable and resilient industry. The Capacity Building Programme is now launched and will be open until the 23rd of October! Register and start the learning journey here ! Eco-smart Tourism Package- Bring the classrooms into nature! Schools and the younger generation are also involved in the change! The project selects 4 schools located in Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Mauritania. The so-called Eco-smart Tourism Package is moving classrooms into nature, teaching the younger generation the meaning and importance of sustainable travelling. The trips will be fully funded, it is an unmissable occasion.. So are you ready to stand up for the health and sustainable development of the Mediterranean? No step is too small, taking care of the Mediterranean is a responsibility of the stakeholders of the earth!
Join the eco-smart tourism packages in the West Mediterranean designed for young tourists!
What is the blue economy? What is the Green economy? Why is it important for tourism companies to transition their business into a more sustainable one? During the info day on the 5th of July, EU WeMED_NaTOUR, together with ECO-CRUISING FU_TOUR, organised an online info day to introduce the Capacity Building programmes- online courses that provide knowledge around the blue economy, sustainable development in the tourism sector, essential knowledge and skills for tourism SMEs to green transition their business and provide a more competitive offering that matches the market demand- green, sustainable and meaningful experience. The two projects are among the “flagship initiatives” co-funded by the EMFAF programme from the European Union are implemented, and developed by organisations that have technical expertise in capacity building, tourism strategic planning, and tourism package design, coming from the West Mediterranean basin. The project coordinator X23 organised an online event, with around 100 registrants, to present the Capacity Building Programme of both EU WeMED_NaTOUR and ECO-CRUSING FU_TOUR. Jo Hendrickx, CEO of Travel Without Plastic introduced the concept of the blue economy, and green economy, and the reason why tourism companies should tap into the young traveller market. Jo also presented the Capacity Building Programme, which will provide a 360° outlook on sustainable tourism with 6 modules. Introduction and Preparation Sustainability is Good for Business Practical Environmental Recommendations Practical Community Engagement Recommendations Communicating Sustainability Continuous Improvement Each course is between 10-15 minutes and will be available in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Arabic. After taking the courses, the businesses could receive a certification of participation. The courses will be fully online, meaning that the attendees will have full flexibility to decide when and where they would like to attend. The attendees had a great response to the Capacity Building Programme and are keen on taking part in this opportunity to elevate their business. With this, the organiser of the event sent the programme information and now the registration is open for everyone, especially the tourism SMEs and schools situated in the West Mediterranean region. Learn more about the EU WeMED_NaTOUR Capacity Building Programme and sign up now: https://www.euwemed-natour.eu/CapacityBuildingSignup And in case you would like to learn more about the ECO-CRUISING FU_TOUR Capacity Building Programme, check out the website and sign up now:
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