First things first: What is Sustainable Tourism?

According to the World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism is “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”.

‘Enel – Green Power’ simply defines sustainable tourism as a responsible approach to travel that aims to protect the environment, preserve local cultures and support communities.

Uganda is one of the countries experiencing rapid growth in the tourism sector and while this in itself is a vibrant segment offering tourists a wide range of experiences including Wildlife and Nature safaris, mountain climbing, rapid-water experiences & sports at the Nile River, source of the Nile, to mention but a few, Uganda is still a developing nation, therefore her potential goes further than what meets the eye.

The country has in the past and currently, been able to thrive as far as tourism is concerned, without necessarily focusing on ‘Sustainable tourism’ or Eco-Tourism. However, stakeholders have over the past few years indulged in conservation practices that may now be a foundation for even more concrete efforts, cementing the agenda.

Both youths and policymakers have made efforts over the past decade to advocate for an eco-friendly Uganda. With the United Nations ‘ SDGs as a significant guide, youths and communities have come together, starting everything from innovative businesses fighting to curb plastic waste, to organizations, and other environment-friendly inventions.

Sustainable Development Goal 13, ‘Climate Action,’ urges one to take urgent action to combat climate change. Ecotourism/ sustainable tourism not only covers this, but also extends to other goals including Goal 14 – Life Below Water, Goal 15 – Life on Land, Goal 16 – Peace, Justice & Strong institutions, Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, and much more. Sustainable Development Goal 11 focuses on Sustainable Cities and Communities, challenging individuals and communities to collectively build spaces that are not only good for humanity, but also the environment. From starting businesses that make products out of plastic waste, to advocating for plastic free forests and oceans, the world id on the move.

With these combined, travelers, tourists, local communities, individuals, and policymakers can collectively craft systems that favor the environment, the economy, and society. This is for the good of both present and future generations.

Here’s how stakeholders in the tourism sector are implementing eco-friendly policies;

1. Preservation of wildlife and game reserves.
2. Community Tourism
3. Gorilla trekking
4. Chimpanzee tracking
5. Birding
6. Nature Walks and Hikes
7. Eco-friendly lodging
8. Ecological Research Initiatives

Know of any other way stakeholders in Uganda’s tourism sector are implementing sustainable tourism policies? leave a comment, Email, or DM us! Also, visit our blog section to interact with other posts.