Green Tourism Incentive Programme: A Lifeline for Sustainable Tourism in South Africa

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The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the tourism industry in South Africa, with many businesses struggling to stay open. As a result, the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) has been established to support small and medium-sized tourism enterprises to promote sustainable tourism practices.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices

The GTIP aims to encourage private-sector tourism businesses to manage their water and energy usage more efficiently, reducing costs and increasing competitiveness. By promoting responsible tourism practices, the program aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector in South Africa.

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Success of the Programme

The program has been successful since its launch, with 130 approved applications and a total grant value of R76.1 million disbursed to businesses. Eligible applicants can qualify for various funding options, including the cost of an energy and water efficiency audit and grant funding of 50% and 90% of the cost of implementing approved solutions.

Supporting Climate Action

Minister Patricia de Lille highlights the importance of accelerating climate action in tourism and the role of the GTIP in addressing the impacts of climate change, economic constraints, and electricity shortages the tourism industry faces. By investing in water and energy efficiency measures, the government is supporting the tourism industry and contributing to the country’s broader sustainability goals.

Encouraging Applications

Eligible tourism businesses are encouraged to apply for the GTIP to take advantage of the opportunity to reduce costs and increase sustainability. The 8th application window will be open from the 2nd of May to the 30th of June 2023. Please visit the Department of Tourism’s website for more information on the program and how to apply.

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Michael Jameson is a Cape Town-born journalist whose reporting on food culture traces the city’s flavours from Bo-Kaap kitchens to township braai spots. When he isn’t tracing spice routes for his weekly column, you’ll find him surfing the chilly Atlantic off Muizenberg with the same ease he navigates parliamentary press briefings.

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