Nature and Digital-Based Education on Ecotourism

Ecotourism is part of sustainable tourism and is one of the fastest-growing forms of tourism in the world. Between 2021 and 2027, the number of ecotourists in the world is projected to increase by 9 percent. Increasingly more visitors are looking for areas with little impact of human activity for recreation. The promotion of ecotourism development requires the application of practical knowledge. There is a growing shortage of ecotour guides and local nature guides, who can subtly reveal the mysteries of nature, encourage interest in it and contribute to its conservation.
The idea of this project is based on the outcomes of the previously implemented project on „Cultural Footprints“ (2017-2019) with the promotion of informal adult education for the improvement of skills and qualifications in the development of niche tourism products, as well on outcomes of finalizing the project on „Promotion of Informal Adults’ Digital Education for Spatial and Sustainable Tourism Development“, which was implemented in 2020-2022 with the promotion of informal adult‘s education to create spatial tourism routes and products based on Baltic and Nordic values and identities.

The project aim is dual – firstly, to encourage adults to increase their knowledge of nature and to travel responsibly through education based on Eco/Green tourism. Secondly to help nature and ecotour guides gain more knowledge in ecotourism, acquire more skills on how to create their own ecotours on site and in a virtual environment, as ecotourism products, which they will be able to deliver to potential visitors, and have an additional source of income for those who live in rural and peripheral areas.

The project will provide a deeper understanding of how to integrate environmental education, as well as highlight the importance of non-formal learning. It will increase the involvement of participants in the local community.
The project will increase social awareness of the natural values of the Baltic and Nordic countries among tourists and other travelers who want to travel responsibly.

Specific objectives:
Guidelines for the development of digital ecotourism products;
6 ecotours with descriptions created by participants of the training;
At least 40 adults trained;
Article on project achievements and dissemination;
Project logo, website, digital brochure.