The Event Greening Forum (EGF) and Fair Trade in Tourism (FTT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), formalising a strategic partnership aimed at advancing responsible tourism principles across the tourism and business events sectors. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening ethical, sustainable and inclusive practices in a rapidly evolving industry.
What the Partnership Will Deliver
Through this collaboration, EGF and FTT will align their expertise in event sustainability and responsible tourism to drive practical industry impact. Joint communication and advocacy initiatives will elevate understanding of responsible tourism among businesses, event professionals and travellers.
A key priority is member development. By sharing resources, tools and learning opportunities, the organisations will strengthen businesses’ capacity to implement credible and measurable responsible practices. Joint research, knowledge exchange and collaborative events will further support progress across the sector.
The collaboration will also work to improve market access for tourism products and services that demonstrate ethical and sustainable business practices, while supporting national and regional policy frameworks that encourage responsible growth and long-term sector resilience.
Stronger Together
“This partnership with Fair Trade in Tourism reflects a shared belief that collaboration strengthens credibility and accelerates meaningful progress,” says EGF Chairperson John Arvanitakis.
“By aligning our efforts, we can provide clearer guidance, stronger support and greater visibility for businesses that are committed to responsible and ethical practices.”
FTT GM, Grace Stead — who was one of the original founders of the EGF — says this partnership feels like a natural homecoming:
“FTT and the EGF have spent years building the infrastructure for responsible business in their respective industries. Now we’re walking that road together, formally.
“Many of the same principles that guide responsible tourism also apply to the events sector — including improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, conserving water, and ensuring fair and ethical working conditions. By strengthening collaboration between the two sectors, the partnership recognises that sustainability challenges and solutions often overlap, and that progress can be accelerated when industries work together,” Stead adds.
The partnership takes effect immediately, with joint initiatives and knowledge-sharing activities set to roll out throughout 2026.
For more information about EGF, visit www.eventgreening.co.za or email lynn@eventgreening.co.za.
To learn more about FTT, visit www.fairtradetourism.org or email info@fairtradetourism.org.
