In the light of the current global situation, and its rapidly developing affect on the travel and tourism industry, an extra module is to be added to the masterclass, specifically addressing sustainable tourism’s durable qualities in a rapidly changing world.

Said Valere Tjolle “There is a perception that sustainable tourism is a “Do-Gooders Charter” and will be dropped as soon as a storm looms. It’s not.

"And the RGS is absolutely the right place to hold it, for the last 180 years, through thick and thin, they have been promoting public engagement and informed enjoyment of our world."

Top speakers have been booked for the “Intensive Masterclass on Sustainable Tourism Marketing” at the Royal Geographical Society in Kensington, London on 17 September.

The speakers list so far includes James Whittingham: Group Environment Manager TUI plc, Dr Murray Simpson: Oxford University Centre for the Environment, Jonathan Mitchell, Head of Tourism at the Overseas Development Institute, Valere Tjolle: Editor, VISION on Sustainable Tourism, Richard G Edwards of Native Energy and others.

Participants in the full day masterclass, will hear, and participate in presentations from international experts in marketing and sustainable tourism.

The masterclass is directed at senior executives in the travel and tourism industry, ministers, top level government officials and advisors from tourist ministries, hotels, spas, resorts, tour operators, visitor attractions and destination management and marketing organisations.

Participants will expect to take away a broad understanding of the unique marketing opportunities that sustainability brings including the “Quadruple Bottom Line”.

Masterclass modules will include:

- Quadruple Bottom Line Opportunities, Sustainable Tourism’s Role

- Tour Operators & Airlines Agenda for Change

- Carbon Neutral Destinations

- Climate Change Adaptation & Mitigation �" the Future

- Alternative Marketing for Sustainable Tourism

The cost for the whole day, including lunch, supper and specially-prepared dossiers, will be UK£500 per person. The masterclass is limited to 25 participants and consideration will be given to providing full or part bursaries to MA and MSc Tourism and CSR students.

Said Valere Tjolle “Sustainable Tourism is a rapidly developing and crucial element of the modern global tourism industry. In this era of climate change and MDG’s it is also totally necessary. The purpose of this masterclass is to enable industry leaders to understand, operate and gain the substantial benefits from the unique marketing opportunities that sustainable tourism presents.”

VISION on Sustainable Tourism subscribers can benefit from an exclusive 40% discount if booked and paid by 25 August.

Further information from: valere@travelmole.com