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Indian Ocean

28 October 2022 @ 9:00 - 10:30

Indian Ocean islands as a model for sustainable tourism

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Abstract

Indian ocean islands often live off tourism only. Many of them have little space available for agriculture and other activities to sustain their economies. Hence to ensure their subsistence, already endangered by climate change, a higher-quality and more responsible tourism is needed. Not only the tourism sector represents the most important source of income for islands, but at the same time it is one of the sectors that contribute most to polluting emissions. It is strictly connected to the seasonality issues: the difference in the flow of visitors between low and high season makes the design and sizing of the plants, both for power production and for seawater desalination, as well as the management of water and electricity grids and the disposal of waste more complex.

Adopting an integrated approach for the development of a sustainable tourism, it is necessary to promote new business models with the involvement of local communities, acknowledging the role of the environment as a basic asset of a responsible tourism. To accompany islands on the path to become sustainable destinations, GTI analyses islands and monitors their progress through the GTI Observatory Global Index and, thanks to the partnership with the Green Destinations Foundation, provides islands with access to a certification as sustainable islands recognized by the United Nations. The webinar will offer an overview of the GTI Certification, including its functioning and objectives, providing details with reference to practical cases.

Agenda (CEST Time)

09.00 Introduction & Moderation

Gianni Chianetta – Founder & Director, Greening the Islands
Hugo De Jong – Head of destination certification, Green Destinations

Case study from Island of Rodrigues (Mauritius)

Franceau Aubret Grandcourt – Deputy Chief Commissioner and Commissioner for Environment, Island of Rodrigues

09.40 Round table with the speakers and the following

Dr Ahmed Salih – Minister of State for Tourism, Maldives
Amjad Abdulla – Head of Partnership, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)