For sustainable tourism to thrive long-term, its economic, environmental, and social aspects must be balanced and equally prioritised. This project aims to focus on the financial aspects of sustainability, specifically addressing the challenges SMEs face in adopting sustainable practices and investments. By analysing member states' sustainable strategies and policies, we aim to identify key obstacles hindering progress, particularly for SMEs, the primary tourism providers in many destinations.

The project will review successful strategic practices and conduct an in-depth analysis of European balanced sustainability policies. This will form the basis for developing a common strategy or tool, along with recommendations for policymakers and tourism SMEs. The goal is to minimise the negative economic impacts of necessary green investments while maximising the benefits of sustainable development across all three pillars of tourism sustainability.

PROJECT DELIVERABLES 

PHASE 1

Pinpoint Analysis: A detailed analysis to identify why sustainable practices are not fully realised, focusing on the challenges faced by SMEs. This will include:

1. Clearly defining the analysis objectives.
2. Reviewing existing policies and practices.
3. Gathering relevant data and evidence from various sources.
4. Identifying key factors and variables affecting sustainable practices.
5. Conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses.
6. Comparing different elements to identify trends and patterns.
7. Synthesising findings into a final report.

Applicant institutions are expected to have the following competencies:

• Be able to work in English fluently across its structure;
• Have proven and strong experience in creating research content, publications, statistics, etc;
• Have previous experience in conducting research projects in Europe;
• Preferably knowing the tourism landscape of Europe;
• Preferably have a high level of awareness concerning international issues;
• Preferably being UN Tourism Academy TedQual certified.

If you wish to apply, please complete the application form before 25 January 2025.

If you have any queries, do not hesitate to write to capacity@unwtoacademy.org .

Please be aware that ALL CANDIDACIES WILL BE CONSIDERED AND EVALUATED, BUT ONLY SHORT-LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.