Proposed Model for Tourism Destination Support for SME’s in Sustainability
- Over the last several years, THISD has developed a theoretical destination based model designed to provide technical and financial support to SME (Small and Medium sized Enterprises) hospitality firms (hotels, catering) within any tourism destination.
- THISD is seeking potential tourism destination sponsors who are willing to fund the support costs for a pilot test of the model. Anyone representing a tourism destination and interested in obtaining additional information on this model may contact the THISD President. Dr. James Holleran
- The basic principle of the model is the interaction between the ability of a destination to grow its tourism economy and its efforts to reduce the pressure on its public utilities (energy, water, waste and other environmental services).
- Through carefully structured training and the development of links between all stakeholders the model encourages the identification, introduction and financing of appropriate Environmental Management Systems and environmental policies within the SMEs in the destination, with the support and involvement of local government, utility companies and other stakeholders.
- A secondary value-added outcome from the model is the improved public image of a destination through the use of a carefully designed PR campaign that links destination sustainability practices to quality service and a high quality environment.
For more information on THISD's destination sustainability model, contact Dr James Holleran