The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) today celebrated World Tourism Day 2023 by confirming three environmentally sustainable commitments that the organization will adopt. The commitments, which focus on solid waste management, energy conservation, and small-scale organic farming practices, are aligned with the 2023 World Tourism Day theme of “Tourism and Green Investment” and as well as the organisation’s commitment to the Glasgow Declaration.
In making these commitments, TAK aims to take action on sustainability ahead of the launch of the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy and Action Plan in November. The organization believes that it is important to lead by example and demonstrate its commitment to environmental protection.
“We are excited to celebrate World Tourism Day 2023 by announcing these three environmentally sustainable commitments,” said Petero Manufolau, CEO of TAK. “We believe that tourism can be a powerful force for good, and we are committed to ensuring that our industry develops in a way that is sustainable and benefits both our people and our planet.”
TAK will implement a comprehensive organisation solid waste management plan to reduce and properly dispose of waste it generates. This will include measures to reduce waste production, increase recycling and composting rates, and improve waste collection and disposal practices.
The organisation will also implement energy efficiency measures in its Tarawa and Kiritimati Island offices. The organization will also work with its tourism partners to promote energy conservation practices.
To promote small-scale organic farming practices amongst tourism operators, TAK launched its own backyard gardening program using composting food cubes . Whilst it may be small scale, TAK believes that such initiatives, when adopted across the tourism sector has the potential to enhance visitor experiences and improve profitability for Kiribati tourism business operators.
TAK is confident that these commitments will help to make Kiribati a more sustainable tourism destination. The organization understand that it needs to lead by example and is committed to working with its partners to ensure that Kiribati becomes the future for sustainable tourism and green investment.
