Casita del Jardinero – CIFAL Málaga Launches Sustainable Tourism Program
The historic Casita del Jardinero – CIFAL Málaga, a beautifully restored 1912 pavilion situated in Málaga Park, continues to expand its role as a key hub for local and global awareness. As the city's official United Nations center, the venue is actively involved in promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In a new effort to address the modern challenges of global travel, the center has partnered with the University of Málaga (UMA) to launch a specialized training program focused on sustainable tourism practices.
This educational collaboration introduces a university micro-credential titled "Strategies, tools, and models of slow tourism." The initiative aims to equip local and international professionals with the skills needed to transition the tourism sector toward a more resilient, respectful, and ecologically balanced model.
Advancing Eco-Friendly Travel: The New Slow Tourism Initiative
As travel remains a major driver of the local economy, finding a balance between economic vitality and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage is increasingly critical. This specialized program addresses these challenges directly by focusing on the principles of slow tourism. This approach prioritizes high-quality visitor experiences, respects the needs of local communities, and aims to generate a positive footprint on the destination.
The curriculum is structured as a 25-hour, fully online course. It combines theoretical foundations with practical tools in key areas such as:
- Sustainable planning and destination management
- Designing responsible travel products
- Green marketing and environmental legislation
- Innovation and impact assessment
The program is designed for a wide range of participants, including tourism professionals, destination managers, public officials, entrepreneurs, consultants, and university students looking to build careers in sustainable development.
Registration and Practical Details
The instruction team features academic and sustainable management experts Germán Gémar Castillo, Francisco M. Pastor Marín, and Déborah Salafranca Vázquez.
For those interested in participating, the application timeline is as follows:
- Registration Period: July 1 to September 15, 2026
- Enrollment Dates: July 15 to September 15, 2026
- Course Dates: September 28, 2026, to March 31, 2027
The course is hosted entirely through the virtual classroom platform of CIFAL Málaga and has an enrollment fee of 100 euros. Complete syllabus information and registration details can be found on the University of Málaga program page.
Through initiatives like this, the landmark pavilion in Málaga Park continues to serve as an active space for international cooperation and local education. If you are planning a visit to the park, stopping by this historic site offers an excellent opportunity to learn about global development goals in a scenic local setting. You can use Musemap (musemap.art) to easily explore Malaga's cultural scene or discover local museums and landmarks to visit during your stay.
