The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course, sponsored by the Hokkaido District Transport Bureau for their employees and stakeholders, concluded successfully. A total of 18 participants successfully attended the training held from the 6th to the 8th of November, 2024, in Wakkanai, Hokkaido, Japan. The three-day training was led by GSTC Trainer Kazuhiro Arai, Representative of Daisetsuzan Nature School.
Participants had the chance to explore sustainability initiatives during the site visit:
- At Scallop Shell White Path, Soya Hills, discussions centered on improving the surrounding environment to enhance its value as a tourism resource. Measures such as traffic restrictions, charging for restroom facilities, and maintaining parking areas were considered to ensure a balance between visitor experience and environmental conservation.
- At Onuma Bird House, participants learned about sustainability initiatives led by the designated manager. The visit highlighted efforts in tourism employment linkages, human resource development, and collaborations with universities and high schools.
The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course equipped participants with essential knowledge and skills for advocating sustainable tourism practices; allowing attendees to explore the GSTC Criteria, the global standards for sustainability in tourism and travel.
Upon successful course completion, participants receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to take an optional official exam to obtain the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism.
If you are interested in contributing to the industry’s sustainable transformation, consider checking out GSTC’s upcoming courses here.
