The inception of ICRT Global marks a new era in responsible tourism education. Set up by renowned professor Harold Goodwin, the organisation aims to transform how the tourism industry tackles sustainability through innovative courses and expert-led training.
With easyJet holidays as its founding partner, ICRT Global is positioned to offer groundbreaking postgraduate-level courses, targeting crucial areas such as responsible tourism and over-tourism management. This initiative is expected to foster a culture of accountability and transparency within the sector, paving the way for more sustainable practices worldwide.
The Launch of ICRT Global and Its Objectives
ICRT Global is an ambitious initiative by Harold Goodwin, focusing on the education and promotion of responsible tourism worldwide. The organisation was officially launched with the aim of facilitating comprehensive learning opportunities across varied tourism sectors.
Targeting a wide range of industries, ICRT Global wants to establish itself as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in responsible tourism. It plans to achieve this through a robust suite of courses, tailored to equip tourism professionals with the skills needed to implement sustainable practices effectively.
Course Offerings and Academic Partnerships
The programme includes two postgraduate courses focused on responsible tourism and managing over-tourism, available in the first half of 2025. Each course is meticulously designed to address the pressing issues the tourism sector faces today.
In addition to these, a course on shared value is set to launch, aiming to engage individuals from local authorities, community leaders, and tourism bodies. This holistic approach ensures that participants gain insights relevant to their specific sectors or areas of interest.
The courses are comprehensive, offering bespoke training options for organisations, and have been developed in consultation with seasoned industry professionals and academic experts. Universities are encouraged to integrate these modules into their own curricula, providing a broader reach.
Supporting Structures and Events
ICRT Global operates with a robust support system, incorporating a board and advisory panel comprising leading tourism experts. Their collective expertise underpins the organisation’s training programmes, enhancing their relevance.
Furthermore, ICRT Global plans to run various events, such as the Responsible Tourism Awards, which will provide valuable case studies to be used as practical examples in their courses. These awards will highlight innovative practices of award winners, giving course participants real-world scenarios.
The organisation acts as a global hub for independent Regional ICRTs, facilitating a shared platform for advocacy and research. This network extends across Southern and West Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
Speaking Engagements and Industry Impact
A half-day conference in London on November 4 will serve as the formal launch of ICRT Global. The conference will also announce the winners of the Global Responsible Tourism Awards, making it a significant date for industry stakeholders.
These engagements are pivotal, demonstrating ICRT Global’s commitment to leading the charge in responsible tourism discourse. By showcasing award-winning initiatives, the organisation reinforces its educational offerings with practical, successful strategies.
ICRT Global’s presence and influence are expected to draw attention from industry leaders, urging them to adopt sustainable practices. The event is a chance to further establish the organisation’s credibility and authority in the field.
ICRT Global’s Leadership and Partners
The board of ICRT Global includes distinguished figures such as Adama Bah, Martin Brackenbury, and Manisha Pande. This leadership team is instrumental in steering the organisation’s strategy and course development.
In partnership with notable entities such as easyJet holidays, ICRT Global benefits from strong backing, which supports its education and outreach efforts. These collaborations underscore the importance placed on responsible tourism by leading industry players.
Special advisors, including sustainability experts like Julie Cheetham, contribute to curriculum development, ensuring the courses remain relevant and innovative. This collective leadership is keen on driving change and embedding sustainable practices across tourism sectors.
Course Accessibility and Cost
Courses offered by ICRT Global are affordable, with early bookings priced at £365. This pricing strategy reflects the organisation’s commitment to making education on responsible tourism widely accessible.
The courses are open to anyone interested, not merely those within the tourism industry, demonstrating the inclusive approach of ICRT Global. This accessibility enables individuals from various backgrounds to gain critical insights into making a positive impact through tourism.
By incorporating examples from the Responsible Tourism Awards, the courses promise to remain practical and inspiring, aligning with ICRT Global’s mission to educate and empower professionals worldwide.
The Importance of Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism aims to make the industry sustainable by benefiting communities and destinations. As highlighted by Harold Goodwin, this approach requires professionals to express what they do to foster better tourism practices.
By educating participants about potential levers for change, ICRT Global aims to inspire transparency and accountability. The organisation believes in the power of knowledge dissemination to instigate significant improvements in tourism.
ICRT Global stands as a pioneering force in the realm of responsible tourism education. Through its comprehensive courses and global reach, the organisation seeks to cultivate a new generation of tourism professionals equipped with the expertise to drive sustainability and positive change across the industry.
The commitment of ICRT Global, supported by strategic partnerships, underscores the importance of education in fostering responsible tourism practices. As the organisation continues to expand its influence, the sector can look forward to a more sustainable future, benefiting communities and environments worldwide.
