This presentation discusses the role of values in the context of sustainable tourism education. However, it does not seek to engage in the debate about the definition of Sustainable Tourism nor the differences between this concept and Sustainable Development, but rather focuses on ‘sustainability’ or ‘sustainability-driven thinking’ as a paradigm or frame of mind (Hunter, 1997; Bonnett, 1999). Unlike concise definitions of Sustainable Tourism which are accompanied by ongoing debate, the underlying concept of ‘sustainability’ is widely accepted in terms of its core components as well as not just a desirable but increasingly necessary approach or paradigm in the context of all aspects of human life. For the benefit of this presentation and to establish a common understanding of the topic at the outset the concept will be reduced to its most defining qualities:

• as derived from the verb ‘to sustain’ – “keep something going over time, or continuously” (Oxford English Dictionary, 2002)
• encompassing environmental considerations, economic considerations, cultural considerations, and social considerations
• encompassing positive and negative, direct, indirect, and induced impacts of human activity at local, regional, national, and international levels and over the short, medium, and long-term.