Keynote - Anna Pollock | Green Destinations 2023 Estonia | Day 1, Welcome Session

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of the key themes and insights shared during the Welcome Session of the Green Destinations 2023 Conference in Estonia. By following these steps, you will gain valuable knowledge about responsible tourism, sustainability, and the collaborative efforts necessary to shift mindsets in the tourism industry.

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Responsible Tourism

• Recognize the transformative potential of tourism to impact communities positively.
• Acknowledge the need for a shift towards sustainable practices in the tourism sector.
• Familiarize yourself with key concepts such as wellness and sustainability that are central to responsible tourism.

Step 2: Learn About Anna Pollock’s Vision

• Explore Anna Pollock’s role as the founder of Conscious Travel and her commitment to changing industry dynamics.
• Identify how her insights contribute to a broader understanding of tourism’s impact on communities and environments.
• Reflect on the significance of collaboration among different sectors to foster sustainable tourism.

Step 3: Engage with Conference Themes

• Note that the Green Destinations 2023 Conference serves as a platform for sharing sustainable solutions and best practices.
• Pay attention to the contributions from over 55 speakers, which enrich the conference experience and provide diverse perspectives.
• Consider how these discussions can inspire your own practices in tourism or related fields.

Step 4: Explore Green Destinations Initiatives

• Understand the mission of Green Destinations, which aims to support sustainable practices globally.
• Familiarize yourself with their core programs:
  • Green Destinations Solutions for Destinations
  • Solutions for Businesses
  • Top 100 Sustainability Stories
• Learn about the assessment and reporting tools available, which include over 40 options designed to aid in sustainability efforts.

Step 5: Get Involved and Stay Connected

• Consider reaching out to Green Destinations for guidance or collaboration opportunities.
• Follow them on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for ongoing updates and resources.
• Utilize the provided contact email (contact@greendestinations.org) for inquiries or further information.

Conclusion

This tutorial has outlined the essential insights from the Welcome Session of the Green Destinations 2023 Conference, focusing on responsible tourism and sustainability. By understanding the importance of these themes and engaging with organizations like Green Destinations, you can contribute to a more sustainable future for tourism. Take the next step by applying these insights in your own work or by connecting with industry leaders.