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Another innovative project opened at the Faculty of geography and nature management is the Laboratory of Sustainable Tourism. The projects of the laboratory, created last year, will contribute to the scientific study of innovative methods of improving domestic tourism and its prosperity on the ground. 

According to the head of the laboratory, candidate of Technical Sciences, honored tourism instructor of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alexander Artemyev, this laboratory continues the traditions of the country's only Scientific School of Tourism geography, founded by Professor S. Yerdauletov (founder of the Department).

The aim of the laboratory of sustainable tourism is to implement the trend of sustainable development of the regions through the synergistic effect of tourism in the context of socio – economic development of the region. In this regard, the laboratory performs the following tasks.

1.conducting comprehensive research to assess the current state of the tourism industry, taking into account its impact on the environment, socio-cultural aspects and economic development. Identification of the main problems and challenges for the sustainable development of Tourism.

2.development of innovative methods and tools for assessing the sustainability of tourist destinations. Preparation of recommendations for the introduction of the principles of sustainable tourism in various areas of tourism activity.

3.development of training programs for representatives of the tourism industry, the academic environment and the tourist community, conducting training seminars. Support the dissemination of knowledge about sustainable tourism through general publications, webinars and other educational formats.

4.Preparation and implementation of pilot sustainable tourism projects with an emphasis on environmental and socio-cultural responsibility, as well as support for local communities. Evaluate the effectiveness and repeatability of successful experiences in different geographical contexts.

5.establishing and developing partnerships with representatives of the tourism business, state bodies, educational, research institutions and public organizations. Active interaction with international research centers on sustainable tourism.

6.develop standards and certification procedures for sustainable tourism enterprises and projects and participate in its promotion on the market. Promotion of compliance with the principles of sustainability by participants in the tourist market.

7.implementation of a system for monitoring and evaluating the sustainability of tourist initiatives. Providing feedback and recommendations in order to always improve practices and strategies in the field of sustainable tourism.

Within the framework of the project, comprehensive studies are carried out to assess the current state of the tourism industry and its impact on the environment, socio-cultural aspects and economic development. The participation of the laboratory of sustainable tourism in the megaproject is due to the multiplier effect, which contributes to more than 30 areas of tourism activity in the economy and ecology and social sphere. After all, tourism creates new jobs in the economy and creates an attractive investment climate in the service sector. And in the social sphere, it is not an exaggeration to say that it is a particle of national value. Because it preserves the historical and cultural heritage and reproduces the national identity. It also shows traditional Kazakh hospitality. It encourages the preservation of natural wealth in the direction of environmental sustainability, fosters a responsible attitude to the rich nature of native soils on the basis of the principles of environmental education, sustainability and patriotism.

According to the head of the laboratory, Alexander Artemyev, based on the identified problems and voiced criticisms, an assessment of the aggregate tourist potential, risks and sustainability prospects will be made. It is also planned to develop scientific recommendations on the introduction of the principles of sustainable tourism in various areas of tourism activity. As a result, economic efficiency will be achieved through the introduction of innovative methods and approaches to sustainable tourism, which will contribute to increasing the competitiveness of tourism enterprises and attracting investment in the industry. According to experts, practical solutions for the formation of modern "green" infrastructure are able to support the prosperity of tourist activity and an increase in income. In this regard, the implementation of sustainable tourism projects supported by the laboratory can contribute to the development of small and medium-sized businesses, the creation of new jobs, as well as stimulate the local economy by increasing the consumption of goods and services.

Environmental efficiency broadens the possibility of preserving natural resources through the development of methods of sustainable use of natural resources aimed at reducing the negative impact of tourism on the ecosystem. Laboratory projects in the field of environmental education and education contribute to the formation of an ecological culture among tourists. And we know that this issue is very important for the preservation of the natural environment. The introduction of innovative practices and technologies will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the carbon footprint of tourism by maintaining climate sustainability.

Social effectiveness is expressed in supporting the local community. Projects on sustainable tourism contribute to the involvement of the local population in tourist activities and the preservation of cultural heritage. Educational and cultural programs aimed at developing the knowledge and skills of local residents have a positive impact on the quality of life. At the same time, the development of sustainable tourism will reduce unemployment and create new jobs that are especially important for improving the well-being of the population.

As a practical tool and the result of the study, a database, evaluation maps are created. Calculations of the tourist and recreational load are carried out and the route tourist network is adapted. Accounting methods will be improved, training programs for business representatives and the local community, including guides, will be developed. In particular, educational events will be organized and monitoring programs will be developed.

Authorized bodies can use the results of research work for the purpose of planning management, and tourist enterprises and organizations-for the assessment of the recreational load on tourist routes and ecological trails (specially protected natural zones) – in order to ensure the sustainability of the development of design territories in the process of doing business, educational institutions – for training and retraining of personnel, scientific organizations – for the formation of a scientific basis for regional sustainable development.

According to the project manager, in the first six months, a methodological base of research was prepared and a situational analysis was carried out on the ground. The main indicators for assessing the sustainability of Tourism Development have been identified. Author's models of regional development of tourism in the West Kazakhstan region have been developed and the corresponding author's certificate has been obtained. An article has been prepared for the rating magazine included in the Scopus database. Now preparations are being made for field research.

LABORATORY AND SDGS

All global criteria for sustainable tourism are applied in accordance with and in accordance with the UN Sustainable Development Goals:

as the basis for sustainability certification;

as basic guidelines for tourist destinations seeking sustainability;

to help customers identify successful sustainable tourist destinations;

as a media orientation to recognize destinations as sustainable and to inform the public about them; when developing state and non-state programs, as well as private sector programs, as a starting point for developing requirements for the development of sustainable tourism;  

as basic guiding principles for educational institutions and organizations of professional training in the field of Tourism and hospitality; show leadership skills that inspire action.

Gulzat NURMOLDAKYZY