Coastal Programmes & Sustainable Tourism

Tourism is one of the mainstays of the South African economy, contributing millions of rands to the GDP and creating countless jobs

Sustainable Tourism requires sound environmental management to ensure sustainable use of resources such as water and power, as well as limiting the impact on habitats and marine wildlife.

Sustainable Tourism practices

WESSA – through the world renowned Blue Flag and Green Key initiatives, and our own Green Coast standard – works with local communities, municipalities and the hosptiality industry to encourage coastal stewardship and sustainable tourism practices.

One of the major benefits of these programmes is that they also help provide solutions to the challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. Additionally, Blue Flag and Green Key promotes universal access for differently-abled persons.

Because tourism is labour intensive, it provides a large variety of job opportunities. From cleaning and kitchen staff to tour guides and top level management – opportunties abound. In addition, tourism also benefits suppliers of locally sourced produce.

By involving local communities, we have the means to alleviate poverty and inequality, enabling all sectors of the population to benefit.