Introduction

International Cases in Sustainable Travel & Tourism is a joint initiative of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Building Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Education Network (BEST Education Network). The WTTC is an international forum for business leaders which works to raise awareness of travel and tourism as one of the world’s largest industries. The BEST Education Network is an international consortium of tourism educators and researchers committed to furthering the creation and dissemination of knowledge within the field of sustainable tourism.

Organization of the Book

The cases in the book were carefully selected to cover all four categories of the Tourism for Tomorrow awards. Part I Destination Stewardship contains four cases: Alpine Pearls, an association in the Alpine region aiming to develop environmentally friendly tourist mobility offers. The case focuses on the role of transport in holiday travel and the related environmental impacts as well as stakeholder management and communication. The Okavango Delta Management Plan presents a best practice example of stakeholders with different interests working together to develop an integrated resources plan for the famous Botswana Ramsar site.

For Instructors

 All cases are presented in a logical and consistent structure which commences with a synopsis and an outline of the learning outcomes. The cases cover a range of key concepts which have been deliberately included to help students make the link between theory and practice. Table 1.1 provides an overview of the major sustainability concepts that can be found in each case and should offer a useful tool for instructors searching for the most appropriate cases. Theoretical considerations are followed by case analysis and an outlook on the future.

For Learners

The cases presented in this book represent best practice examples of sustainable tourism in action and generally do not focus on a major problem or issue. However, study questions are provided at the end of each chapter to focus your thinking. It is suggested that these questions are best analyzed through individual reflection or collaboration in small teams. It is useful to read the case several times, highlighting the key themes or concepts and developing your ideas by consulting additional resources such as readings and websites.