to eco, or not to eco?

There’s no doubt that “eco-lodge” is the new buzzword, but just how can travellers be sure that the latest, must-visit lodge is indeed dedicated to the principles of eco-tourism rather than merely exploiting the phrase for financial gain? A little research and a few questions can help ensure your lodge of choice meets the criteria. Lodge owners serious about their commitment to the environment and local people should have a written policy with clear and measurable guidelines. • What percentage of locals are employed and in what capacity; i.e. are any employed in a managerial capacity? • How many programmes do they have in place in terms of environment protection, rehabilitation or community upliftment? • Do they subscribe to the three Rs – reduce, re-use, recycle – and how? • Do they utilise solar power for heating? • How do they treat waste water? • Are products and services sourced locally? • Do they support local culture and customs and offer advice on how guests are able to get involved? • Do they employ guides from the local communities?

SA in Top 50

National Geographic Adventure recently announced its choice of the Top 50 Eco-lodges worldwide, which included three lodges from South Africa. Congratulations to the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Phinda Private Game Reserve and Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve.

ECOFRIQUES

In 2008, Ian Kingsley and PJ Eilander conducted a remarkable research trip that took them through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Their aim: to lay the groundwork for a travel series – for the international and local markets – to show the positive side of Southern Africa, what local communities are doing to protect the environment and promote sustainable tourism, focussing on aspects such as recycling, community development, nature conservation, carbon offsetting and water purification.

They are almost ready to embark on the next phase of their journey – to film the planned 12 or 13-part series. One episode will highlight how, in partnership with Climate Africa, they mapped the carbon footprint of their journey, what measures were implemented to reduce it whilst travelling and what they did to offset the balance, thereby producing Southern Africa’s first carbon neutral travel series.

However, they do require further sponsorship, so if you or your company would be interested in taking part in this project or would like to learn more, contact Ian or PJ of ecoFriques – eco-centric film making and research – on 076 0303 859, info@ecofriques.co.za or visit www.ecofriques.co.za