WTM Africa is fast approaching, with its three-day programme kicking off on 3 April 2023 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). In addition to the workshops, networking and evening functions, the event will once again host the Responsible Tourism Africa Conference and the Responsible Tourism Awards. Additionally, a dedicated sustainability village is being launched this year, in support of the growing responsible tourism movement.
Showcasing sustainable solutions
The Sustainability Village will feature a variety of eco-focused pop-up exhibitors who will be demonstrating the valuable solutions they provide businesses which also offer an environmental and social benefit. Among the exhibitors are innovative brands such as Growing Paper, which specialises in producing 100% recycled, plantable and biodegradable handmade paper products.
Visitors will get to take a small sample of their product home with them to plant, in the form of the event’s vegetable seed badge holders/pouches. And if they don’t think they will be likely to plant it, they can drop it off as they exit the show. All collected badges like this will be planted in a community garden, helping local residents to start and nurture a sustainable food source for their families.
Roxanne Schumann, founder of Growing Paper, says, “We are thrilled to be participating in the Sustainability Village at WTM Africa and believe our product is an innovative solution aligned for the industry. By incorporating this socially and environmentally meaningful solution into their supply chain, tourism businesses can show their commitment to sustainability, provide unique experiences for their guests, and promote their brand in a positive and memorable way.”
“We hope we can play a role in inspiring companies and teams to feel, think and live the art and business of sustainable tourism.”
E’Yako Green is another pop-up exhibitor. Carey Moran, owner of E’Yako Green, says, “We love the opportunity to create functional bags and other items out of pre-used materials and to share our work at WTM Africa. We hope we can play a role in inspiring companies and teams to feel, think and live the art and business of sustainable tourism.”
Other Sustainability Village exhibitors include Painted Wolf Wines, How Many Elephants and Uthando.
RX Global’s commitment to Sustainable Development
The launch of the Sustainability Village follows the show’s event organiser, RX Global, committing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals Sustainability Pledge. This means the company is actively seeking ways to positively contribute to sustainable development and minimise any negative environmental impacts. Attendees at WTM Africa are encouraged to visit the village to sign their own similar pledge.
Along with attending the Responsible Tourism conference and exploring the sustainability village, visitors are also encouraged to attend the Responsible Tourism Awards, which will be hosted on 4 April, spotlighting various travel suppliers and their sustainability stories and successes.
Olivia Gradidge, RX Global Marketing Manager – Travel and Tourism, says, “It’s so important to be celebrating the work being done and showcasing the options available to the industry. There are many easy changes suppliers can make to better serve their clients and the environment.
“After all, aside from the gratification that comes with doing their part, prioritising the wellbeing of our planet sends a much stronger message to a supplier’s clients than any marketing approach ever could.”
Registration for WTM Africa 2023 is free. CLICK HERE to find out more.
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Cover image: By Rafael Albornoz on Unsplash
