The Masters in Sustainable Leisure Management students from Vancouver Island University are heading out to learn about how businesses, residents, organizations and governments are working towards sustainability in the Southern Gulf Island region from October 22-26, 2012. Lead by Dr. Nicole L Vaugeois and Dr. Pat Maher (Visiting Scholar from UNBC), the group of 15 students will first visit Saltspring Island and then head to Pender Island later in the week. Together, the group will be meeting with a broad range of people who will describe the initiatives underway to address complex sustainability challenges. “There is probably no better place on earth for such a diverse group of students to learn about local responses to sustainability challenges” says Vaugeois. “The people in the Gulf Islands region are known for their innovative thinking and commitment to sustainability challenges. Having our students learn from them is better than anything I can teach them in the classroom.” Maher and Vaugeois have been impressed with the welcome that people have given to them on the islands. “We hope to create a win-win situation where our work will also contribute back to the islands region.
The students are writing up their observations and ideas and will each share their thoughts on this blog in the weeks to follow. So keep posted to learn more from the study tour.