Tourism sector adopts climate-friendly practices

THE tourism industry has been encouraged to play its part in climate change mitigation by embracing the Climate Friendly Travel concept, which helps reduce carbon footprint.

With the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (CoP29) underway in Baku, Azerbaijan, the general call is for every economic sector to play a part towards zero emissions and reducing the impact of climate change.

The tourism industry is pushing for a green tourism concept where destinations should embrace smart pollution free activities and operations shown through recycling, conservation.

The industry is encouraged to embrace the Climate Friendly Travel (CFT), an initiative aimed at integrating environmental sustainability with the travel and tourism sectors.

It is designed to support the transition towards a low-carbon, sustainable future, aligned with the Paris 1,5 degrees Celsius Climate targets and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Zimbabwe, known for natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, is taking significant strides towards sustainable tourism and has domesticated the Sun Malta, a non-profit programme initiated in Malta with focus on the SDG linked Climate Friendly Travel and implementing the Paris Agreement.

Ms Ropa Mushoorwa, the Climate-Friendly Travel Chapter Leader for Zimbabwe and the Regional Representative for the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe said the country is making substantial progress in adopting climate-friendly practices.

She said Cresta Lodges, The Victoria Falls Hotel, Glenlivet Resort and Lodge at the Ancient City where she is assistant general manager have embraced the initiative.
“Climate Friendly Travel plays a pivotal role in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By reducing carbon emissions, conserving resources, and supporting local communities, it contributes to several key goals, including Goal 13 on Climate Action, Goal 15 on life on land, goal 8 on decent work, and Goal 11 on Sustainable cities and communities,” she said.

Cresta Churchill Hotel in Bulawayo

“Climate-friendly travel initiatives help mitigate climate change by reducing the tourism industry’s carbon footprint, while sustainable tourism practices protect biodiversity and ecosystems, ensuring the long-term viability of natural resources.”

By promoting responsible tourism, Zimbabwe can contribute to the sustainable development of its cities and communities.

Climate-friendly tourism can also create jobs and support local economies, especially in rural areas, said the official.

Water management measures to conserve water, such as rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation systems, have also been implemented.

Some hotels such as The Victoria Falls Hotel, Palm River Hotel and Mbano Manor Hotel have also adopted similar waste recycling strategies where they operate conservation gardens.

Most hotels also now separate waste at source to reduce environmental pollution.

“As a hotel we are a partner and member of the Climate Friendly Travel. I encourage all tourism operators to play a part and sign up for Climate Friendly, which is a board that shows our efforts towards climate change,” said Ms Mushoorwa.

Some of the key actions taken by the Ancient City Lodge in Masvingo under her guidance include not only contributing to the reduction of carbon footprint but also setting a positive example for other tourism businesses in Zimbabwe, as well as supporting local communities.

Ms Mushoorwa said Zimbabwe’s commitment to climate-friendly travel is a testament to its dedication to sustainable development. By embracing responsible tourism practices, the country is not only protecting its environment but also contributing to the achievement of the SDGs.

“As Zimbabwe continues to lead the way in sustainable tourism, it serves as an inspiration for other countries around the world,” she said.

Being a member of the CFT will help companies and communities to link to the UN climate porta, integrate the SDGs and Paris Agreement, control energy costs, meet growing green customer demand, reach clear climate targets and monitor progress, prepare for new climate laws, ahead of the curve.

A Climate Neutral 2050 Ambitions Registry for States to declare carbon reduction was built into the Paris 2015 Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) are filed on the UN Climate Action Portal and extended to regions, cities, and companies.

Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Matabeleland North manager Mr Daniel Mumpande said operators have shown commitment by installing climate friendly water dispensers, reducing use of plastic by guests, sorting waste at source and availing reusable containers that can be taken home as souvenirs. —chroncile