SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF ECOTOURISM SUPPLIERS
The socio-economic assessment focuses on measuring the social impact generated by diverse ecotourism service providers, suppliers, and facilities within a destination or included in an ecotourism itinerary. This comprehensive assessment encompasses 15 essential social topics and examines the perspectives of four key stakeholder groups: workers, local communities, value chain, and visitors.
To conduct this assessment, the methodology is based on a simplified version of the Product Social Impact Assessment, developed by the Social Value Initiative. By using this methodology, an evaluation of the socio-economic dimensions associated with ecotourism is ensured, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of its social implications.
Who is it for?
This tool has been specifically developed for Destination Management Organisations (DMOs), Protected Areas (PAs), and Inbound Tour Operators (ITOs) seeking to self-assess the social well-being impact of tourism service providers within their destination or suppliers included in their product offer. This assessment empowers you to make informed decisions and drive positive change, fostering a sustainable and socially responsible tourism ecosystem within your destination or product portfolio.
Stakeholders involved
The organization responsible for leading the assessment will be required to actively engage with the ecotourism businesses operating within the destination or the suppliers associated with their itinerary/product that they intend to assess. This involvement typically encompasses multiple providers across accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, and activity or excursion services.
Given that the data providers are overlapping, it is highly recommended to conduct this assessment jointly with the Ecological Footprint Calculator. By combining these assessments, a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of both the environmental and social aspects can be achieved. This integrated approach allows for a more accurate evaluation of the overall sustainability and impact of the assessed entities, promoting a well-rounded approach to ecotourism management.
What to expect when using the tool?
To ensure accurate and comprehensive data collection, it is essential for data collectors to actively engage with various stakeholders to gather sensitive information. Once the data collection phase is complete, it needs to be meticulously entered into the designated tool. This process ensures that the collected data is organized and ready for analysis within the assessment framework.
To assist you in effectively planning the data collection process and ensuring its successful execution, we have provided a set of documents (available below). These documents will serve as valuable resources, helping you structure the data collection process. By using these materials, you can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your data collection efforts, ultimately contributing to an insightful assessment.
Before You Start
To assist you in effectively planning the data collection process and ensuring its successful execution, we have provided a set of documents (available below). These documents will serve as valuable resources, helping you structure the data collection process. By using these materials, you can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your data collection efforts, ultimately contributing to an insightful assessment.
Credits
The Social Impact Assessment tool has been developed by IUCN Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation and the University of Vic Beta Centre, with the external support of Labox. The methodology was developed by the University of Vic Beta Centre with support from the Standard Group of the DestiMED PLUS project.