As travellers are becoming more responsible about their travel choices, they are looking at establishments with more sustainable operations and ways to reduce their own carbon footprint as a result of their travels. Given all the many things accommodation establishments are doing to go green and remain competitive, it’s not uncommon to occasionally overlook some of the easier ways to do so. As far as sustainability measures go, a carbon offset programme is one of the easiest ones to implement.
What is GreenDreams?
GreenDreams, developed by the carbon management company Climate Neutral Group, is a carbon offset programme for tourism accommodation establishments. It is being rolled out country-wide by the Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme (STPP), a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
How does the GreenDreams carbon offset programme work?
First, the amount of carbon emissions generated by a guest’s stay (bednight) is translated to a per bednight carbon footprint based on international benchmarks. Then the carbon footprint is offset by purchasing the equivalent amount of carbon credits from projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions elsewhere. The accommodation establishment has two choices:
1) Add the carbon offset cost per bednight to the guests bill or
2) Absorb the carbon offset costs per bednight internally
This works out to R5,70 per bednight including VAT.
Climate Neutral Group has several exciting (South) African offset projects in its portfolio that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also impact communities who benefit from the sale of carbon credits. All their projects comply with the three most internationally recognised carbon credit standards – the Gold Standard (GS), Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
It is important to note that carbon offsets are only meant to complement, not replace, other efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Hotels should at the same time find ways to cost-effectively reduce emissions while engaging with carbon offsets. The STPP’s Resource Efficiency Programme is well placed in assisting accommodation establishments in reducing its carbon emissions and operational costs.
The Benefits
In a nutshell offering a carbon offset programme is an easy and cost-effective way for establishments to:
- Boost CSI ratings and BEE scorecard
- Offer businesses what they are demanding: green business meetings and hotel stays
- Make green-minded guests feel better about their travelling
Further info:
Visit www.greendreams.co.za or contact Franz Rentel 021-403 6395, or
www.stpp.co.za or contact Niki Glen 079 872 3160