By Setshego Ledwaba
Tourism is at a crossroads: it can either lead the charge in climate action or become a casualty of its own environmental footprint. Because the industry is heavily reliant on natural beauty and cultural heritage, embracing sustainability is not just a trend – it's a necessity for survival. If meaningful efforts to reduce emissions and protect ecosystems are not made, what precious ecosystems will remain for travellers to flock to see in the future?
In southern Africa, research reveals that many businesses adopt green initiatives to comply with regulations, enhance their brand image, or attract a growing segment of ecoconsious-travellers. However, as consumers become more discerning, they are raising the bar, demanding genuine sustainability rather than superficial fixes.
Tourism currently accounts for 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and experts predict that air travel and accommodation-related emissions could triple by 2035. This should serve as a wake-up call for hoteliers. The Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership underscores that the industry must urgently reduce its carbon footprint to remain viable in the long term.
While the enormity of the crisis can make it feel overwhelming, the gravity of what is at stake should focus our attention and encourage us to work together – one hotel, one guest and one action at a time.
Combating global warming changes that dwindle fresh water sources, lead to less biodiversity (thus reducing ecotourism) or threaten the viability of beach and ski resorts, requires collective action with a shared understanding of sustainability goals – from groundskeepers to guests.
For hotel workers this means embedding green behaviours through training and incentive programmes that make sustainability second nature. For instance our grounds teams are equipped with knowledge of native plant species, ensuring eco-friendly landscaping that supports biodiversity and conserves water. This keeps gardens pristine while aligning with our environmental goals.