Pacific Tourism Organisation’s Climate Action Champions: Peer-to-Peer Catch-Up

As part of its ongoing Climate Champion and Destination Management Training initiative, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) recently held its second peer-to-peer catch-up with representatives from its five divisions.

This exchange is a key component of the broader Climate Champion and Destination Management Training program, delivered in collaboration with the Travel Foundation, Expedia Group, and Regional Tourism New Zealand. Supported by the New Zealand Government, the initiative aligns with SPTO’s commitment to the 2030 Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework, specifically Goal 4 of the Pacific Sustainable Destination Standards.

The Climate Action Training Program aims to:

• Equip participants with climate literacy and essential knowledge
• Develop Climate Action Plans for practical application
• Integrate climate considerations into daily tourism management
• Create Climate Champions to drive action across all sectors
• Enable destination organizations to lead impactful change on a larger scale

This second peer-to-peer session focused on the progress and challenges faced by the climate action training program. Participants discussed topics such as climate action plans, corporate sustainability, and the strategic role of regional tourism organizations. Key discussions highlighted the need for internal climate plans, accurate emissions data, and aligning marketing strategies with climate goals.

The value of continuous learning and incorporating climate knowledge into their work was emphasized. The session also outlined future action items, including the completion of modules, preparing for upcoming coaching sessions, and enhancing program feedback.

Through various activities, participants gained practical tools for implementing climate action in tourism, exploring strategies for integrating climate-conscious approaches into planning and operations. The program is structured around three components:

1. Online Training Course: Focuses on climate literacy, action planning, and adaptation, with peer-to-peer sessions supporting collaborative learning.
2. Immersive and Interactive Session: A hands-on experience in Rotorua, New Zealand, as part of the Te Ūnga Mai Professional Development Training, allowing participants to apply climate action concepts in real-world settings.
3. Coaching and Advisory Sessions: Ongoing personalized support to help participants develop and implement climate strategies tailored to their destinations.

The program will conclude in November 2024, by which time participants will have developed their Climate Action Plans, ready to lead sustainable tourism efforts in their destinations.