Welcome to FOOTPRINT:

The FOOTPRINT project is driven by the urgent global need to make the tourism industry more sustainable. With a growing awareness of environmental issues and the importance of responsible travel, the project aims to transform the tourism sector in partner countries. Recognising the diverse cultural and regional contexts, FOOTPRINT seeks to empower vocational education and training (VET) trainers, business owners, and managers with customised resources that promote the transition to sustainable tourism business models.

As you explore the FOOTPRINT website, you’ll find a variety of resources and guidelines for sustainable tourism practices. The site features a comprehensive training curriculum designed for VET educators to support the transition to green tourism. Additionally, there are masterclass sessions available for business owners, along with a set of guiding Practice Principles to help them implement sustainable practices. These materials aim to build green competencies and promote the adoption of sustainable business ideals within the tourism sector.

Supporting Tourism Businesses to Transition Towards Green Business Models

Project Overview

Aims and Objectives of FOOTPRINT

Sustainable tourism extends beyond simple environmental preservation. While it is essential to protect Europe’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecosystems, there is also an urgent need to support local economies, create jobs, and strengthen small businesses. The FOOTPRINT project encompasses the economic, environmental, and social aspects of sustainable development. It has identified three niche tourism sectors—ecotourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism—as examples of how the industry can transition towards sustainability.

Our project objectives are as follows:

To empower business owners and managers in the tourism and hospitality sector by equipping them with essential green skills and knowledge. This will enable them to adopt and implement sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to a more responsible and resilient industry. Through training and practical resources, they will be better prepared to integrate eco-friendly solutions, improve resource management, and meet the growing demand for sustainable tourism experiences.

To provide VET (Vocational Education and Training) professionals with the essential knowledge, skills, and resources needed to effectively educate business owners and managers in the tourism industry on sustainable practices. This includes understanding environmental, social, and economic sustainability principles, as well as practical strategies for implementing eco-friendly operations, reducing waste, conserving resources, and promoting responsible tourism. By empowering VET professionals, they can guide businesses in adopting sustainable models that enhance long-term profitability while minimising negative impacts on local communities and the environment.

To advocate for the adoption of ecotourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism as best practices to promote sustainable tourism by balancing economic growth, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. Ecotourism supports biodiversity and minimises environmental impact, cultural tourism provides appreciation for local traditions and heritage, and adventure tourism encourages responsible outdoor activities. Together, these models ensure that tourism benefits both local communities and travelers while protecting natural and cultural resources for future generations.

Learning Materials

The Sustainable Tourism Programme

CPD Programme will build the green competencies of VET trainers specifically related to the tourism sector and how they can help support businesses and business owners adapt to the green transition through the developed practice principles.

The Green Business Training Programme and Masterclasses

will offer a training program designed for business owners and managers, enhancing their knowledge and skills in sustainable tourism. This program includes three masterclass sessions specifically created to help business owners engage with the green transition and explore niche business models like ecotourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism.

The Practical Principles & Sustainable Tourism Support Guides

will aim to provide business owners in niche sectors with a set of practical principles to aid their green transition. These guides will be complemented by a collection of national-specific support documents that highlight local best practices and the national tourism support frameworks.

Meet the Partners: The People Behind the FOOTPRINT

News

On this page, you will find our news items, copies of our project poster/brochures and newsletters. We will add to this page and keep it regularly updated throughout the project.

Newsletter 1

Newsletter 2

Newsletter 3

Get Involved

If you would like to get involved in the FOOTPRINT project, please feel free to follow us on Social Media and contact your local partner

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. Project Number: 2024-1-ES02-KA220-YOU-000255635

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