International event as part of the ECOViP project

Universidade Portucalense (UPT) recently hosted a significant international event as part of the ECOViP project (“Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Ecotourism to support sustainable development in Vietnam and the Philippines”). The event brought together approximately 25 participants from universities in the Philippines, Vietnam, Spain, and Austria, forming a consortium committed to advancing sustainable ecotourism.

From January 22 to 26, 2024, the following universities participated in this event:

• University of Nha Trang, Vietnam (project coordinator)
• University of Can Tho, Vietnam
• University of Sciences of Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
• Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Philippines
• Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Philippines
• University of San Carlos, Philippines
• University of Alicante, Spain
•  FH Joanneum, Austria

The first day of the agenda marked the beginning of activities, featuring institutional presentations on the REMIT Research Unit, the ‘Territory and Development’ research group, Tourism training offerings at UPT, and UPT’s support services/initiatives aimed at promoting student employability and entrepreneurship. After a tour of UPT facilities, a roundtable discussion on the challenges and future prospects of ecotourism development in Portugal took place. Moderated by Prof. Sónia Nogueira, the panel included representatives from prominent organizations in the field: ICNF – Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, Portuguese Ecotourism Association, Local Association ADERE – Peneda Gerês, Municipality of Baião (one of the three destinations certified in Portugal by Earth Check as sustainable destinations), and the Biological Park of Gaia. The day concluded with a panel moderated by Prof. Marília Durão, focusing on sharing best practices from companies engaged in ecotourism, such as Casa Lata (Agritourism) and Porto Outside (Tour Operator).

Over three days, participants attended a workshop dedicated to ecotourism and sustainable development. Led by the UPT team, the University of Alicante (Spain), and FH Joanneum (Austria), the workshop covered topics such as designing ecotourism experiences, evaluating sustainability practices and eco-environmental policies, and discussing the benefits of eco-certification.

One of the days was dedicated to a study visit highlighting noteworthy ecotourism initiatives in Portugal. Destinations included Bioria, a pioneering nature conservation and biodiversity project in Estarreja, and Ecomuseu Marinha da Troncalhada, an open-air museum in Aveiro showcasing traditional salt production methods.

The final day focused on project management and follow-up meetings for the ECOViP project. Embracing the Erasmus+ program’s intercultural aspect, a social program introduced participants to Porto’s historical, cultural, and tourist landscape, featuring a guided tour of the city’s historic center, wine and regional product tastings, dinner at a typical restaurant, and a Fado music performance.

The ECOViP project aims to establish a foundation for innovation and sustainable development in the ecotourism sector. At Universidade Portucalense, this project is coordinated by Prof. Makhabbat Ramazanova (DTPC – Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture). The remaining team members include Prof. Marília Durão (DTPC), Prof. Sónia Nogueira, Prof. João Carvalho, and Prof. Luís Pacheco (DEG – Department of Economics and Management).