How tourism can promote sustainable development
In our Article on overtourism we have shown the dark side of (mass) tourism. Many wonderful projects in the field of sustainable tourism show that tourism can also make a valuable and positive contribution to society. Here, the local population is involved in tourism planning and participates in the success of tourism, as the money actually reaches them. So it's nice that there are more and more initiatives, projects and organizations that have dedicated themselves to precisely this goal and want to promote responsible tourism and sustainable development locally around the world.
A wonderful project can be found in Durban, South Africa. The organization Durban Green Corridors is actively involved in the environment and youth development and has been putting together "green adventure travel" since 2009. Unique, natural and adventurous experiences are created in Durban and in the neighboring KwaZulu-Natal. From canoeing through the mangroves to hiking through the mysterious Rastafarian caves or mountain bike tours, there is something for everyone here. As a traveler, you meet the locals again and again and can actively exchange ideas with them.
The location of Durban on the Indian Ocean and the subtropical climate make Durban a popular holiday destination in South Africa. It is all the more important that tourism offers are created here that promote sustainable development in the region.
Experience authentic South Africa with Durban Green Corridors
Durban Green Corridors would like to support such offers. That is why they have created a network in which sustainable tourism providers can be found. The activities undertaken by Durban Green draw precisely on this network. In addition to the tailor-made, multi-day trips, day trips to the rural surroundings are also offered. All tourism offers that are undertaken with Durban Green Corridors benefit the local people. This also creates a positive attitude towards travelers among the local population.
"Thanks to the tour groups that visit us with Durban Green Corridors, I have an extra income to live on while still caring for my community." - Local Sangoma (traditional healer) from Inanda
Another project in which Durban Green Corridors collaborated with AfricaIgnite committed, is the fair trade project WOWZULU. AfricaIgnite is a rural development agency for the KwaZulu-Natal Province that primarily aims to empower women and youth on the ground. The WOWZULU project aims to support people who work in traditional handicrafts. They make beautifully decorated pearl jewelry and bags as well as elaborately embroidered pillow cases. The income generated by the sale of the products in the so-called WOWZULU Marketplaces flows directly to the producers so that they can provide for their families.
The very special get-together of locals and travelers
In addition, Durban Green Corridors brings travelers right into these rural regions. Here you can learn the traditional handicrafts yourself and learn more about the culture and everyday life of the people while staying overnight in a homestay. There is also a cool, refreshing Zulu beer. Overall, this creates a very special experience, both for the travelers and for the local people.
"Guide travelers through my hometown gives me the opportunity to combine my work with my passion and contribute to cultural and ecological awareness raising." - Sanele, cultural guide from Inanda
So tourism also has positive sides, provided it is organized responsibly and fairly. By choosing sustainable travel offers, you automatically support sustainable development in the respective regions. So it goes on the next (long-distance) trip with a clear conscience.
Find out more about Durban Green Corridors' green adventure travel here
Lisa Klakow
Lisa helped set up the Good Travel Blog and will write for us as a freelance author in the future. She is passionate about traveling and dancing around the world with a small ecological footprint.
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