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IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Boschendal Wine Estate achieves Green Key Certification: a milestone in sustainable tourism
Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA CEO and Amy Kropman - Boschendal CEO at the handover of the Green Key Image: Anneri Wasserman: Basque Imagery. As global tourism is set to surge, predicted to generate up to 30 billion visits and contribute a staggering $16 trillion to the global economy by 2034, the sustainability of this industry comes under increasing scrutiny. The World Economic Forum's newly released report, Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point, reveals a paradox: nature is the primary draw for tourists, yet unchecked tourism practices are wreaking havoc on biodiversity and escalating waste and carbon emissions. If left unaddressed, tourism's greenhouse gas emissions could soar to as high as 15% of global totals within the next decade, threatening the ecosystems that attract travellers in the first place. In this climate of concern, Boschendal Wine Estate has remarkably positioned itself as a pioneering force in sustainable tourism by officially earning the prestigious Green Key certification for its accommodation offerings. This accomplishment not only makes Boschendal the first wine estate globally to achieve this honour, but it also reinforces the estate's steadfast commitment to regenerative practices that benefit both the land and the communities it supports. Boschendal Wine Estate Image: Anneri Wasserman: Basque Imagery. Amy Kropman, CEO of Boschendal, expressed pride in this significant achievement. 'As we honour 340 years of history this September, becoming the first wine estate in the world to earn Green Key recognition for its accommodation is a powerful validation of our regenerative philosophy in action. We aim to regenerate not only the soil but also the people who live, work, and stay with us.' The Green Key certification, which is administered by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and coordinated internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is renowned as one of the most respected eco-labels in the tourism sector. It demands rigorous compliance and is awarded to establishments that excel in environmental management, resource efficiency, ethical practices, and community engagement. Cindy-Lee Cloete, CEO of WESSA, applauded Boschendal for setting a 'truly remarkable milestone' in the domain of sustainable tourism, viewing the estate's certification as a testament to its commitment to heritage, innovation, and environmental stewardship. 'This certification formally recognises Boschendal's leadership in sustainable tourism,' she said. Boschendal has undertaken numerous sustainability initiatives, including the integration of renewable energy sources tailored to its operational needs through a burgeoning solar infrastructure. Additionally, since 1 August, the estate has introduced a 2% Conservation Levy on all accommodation stays. This funding supports biodiversity-friendly, regenerative farming practices, conservation efforts for indigenous flora and fauna, and enhancements in water and energy efficiency to ensure the land's long-term resilience. The estate's commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its alignment with global best practices. Key measures include: A dedicated environmental manager and green committee overseeing progress and governance. A formal sustainability policy and action plan targeting climate change, biodiversity protection, resource efficiency, and social equity. Measurable reductions in carbon emissions, water consumption, and waste output, complemented by guest engagement and transparent reporting. Local partnerships that support initiatives including biodiversity conservation, youth skills development, and ethical supplier sourcing. Aside from its Green Key certification, Boschendal's sustainability journey is encapsulated in its Future of Farming initiative, which aims for ecological renewal through regenerative practices. These include holistic soil regeneration to optimise plant-microbiome systems, integrated livestock rotations, and onsite smart monitoring tools that enhance precision irrigation and land management. 'Being part of Boschendal's Green Key journey has been a unique and rewarding experience,' said Tevya Visser, Green Key Programme Manager at WESSA. 'This achievement sets the tone for environmentally responsible hospitality across South Africa's wine regions.' As the urgency for regenerative approaches becomes ever more apparent, the WEF report warns that unchecked tourism growth could culminate in irreversible damage to natural heritage sites and ecosystems. Boschendal's proactive initiatives serve not only as a model of resilience but also as a blueprint for environmental stewardship. 'We see Green Key not as a badge, but as a commitment to regeneration, accountability, and purpose. Guests from key markets like the UK and Germany increasingly seek aligned, impactful travel experiences—and this certification brings credibility to that promise,' said Kropman. The official Green Key handover ceremony on 1 August saw the estate's senior leadership alongside Green Key representatives celebrate this significant milestone. At Boschendal the combination of world-class hospitality and ecological stewardship shows a promising way for heritage destinations to evolve.
The Citizen
02-07-2025
- General
- The Citizen
School turns plastic waste into wheelchairs
Since the beginning of the year, Trinityhouse Little Falls (THLF) has been collecting plastic bottle tops as part of a recycling drive, and it has turned into something bigger than they expected, as they have recently handed over 226kg to the Tops and Tags for Wheelchairs organisation. The programme works by exchanging recycled plastic bottle tops for wheelchairs, which are then donated to people who need mobility support. According to Gill Gray, a foundation phase teacher at THLF who co-ordinated the project, the school's involvement is part of a broader environmental education programme run in partnership with the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). 'There were no set goals when we started,' Gill says. 'Our aim was just to fill one wheelie bin. We didn't expect to collect over 200kg in our first drop-off.' The success of the collection drive came down to participation from across the school. Bins were placed at the entrance to make drop-offs easy, and reminders were given during assemblies. Learners helped weigh, pack, and load the bottle tops for delivery, and families played a big role in bringing in large quantities of plastic. 'This was a team effort. Learners, staff and families got involved,' Gill further explains. As a WESSA Eco-School, THLF introduces a new environmental project each year, and the bottle top project is one of several recycling activities at the school. THLF also collects white paper and recently launched its Eco-Brick project, where learners and families pack soft plastics into bottles to be used as building materials. A competition is currently underway to see which class can make the most Eco-Bricks. Gill expresses that the most rewarding part of the initiative was knowing that their efforts would help provide wheelchairs to people in need. 'This project showed learners that recycling isn't just about the environment – it can change lives too. Every bottle top counts.' The collection of bottle tops will continue throughout the year, and the school plans to keep growing its recycling projects. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
26-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Thembisa NPO turns dumping sites into community spaces
The local environmental NPO Clean Environment has been on a mission to tackle illegal dumping across Thembisa since 2017, transforming more than 100 dumping sites into sustainable spaces like mini gardens, car washes and small parks. The Tsenelong Section NPO has built a reputation for reclaiming neglected areas, turning them into clean, functional community spaces. The NPO aims to remove waste and create environments that discourage future dumping. 'This started in our section,' said Tshepang Motaung, the co-founder of Clean Environment. ALSO READ: Illegal dumping now criminal offence in Ekurhuleni 'We noticed many tenants dumping plastic and rubbish in open spaces. What motivated us to keep going is that many communities supported us, and after we cleaned, they maintained the spaces. Not all areas do, but most of them.' The group, comprising five dedicated volunteers with the NPO since the beginning, also runs weekly educational campaigns in communities to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal dumping and promote a cleaner environment. One of the NPO's milestones was launching its recycling business, now in its second year. 'When cleaning, we noticed many recyclables. That's when the idea for a recycling business started,' Motaung said. The income supports their clean-up efforts, although financial challenges persist. 'We don't always have PPE or the tools we need, so we bring what we can from home to keep going.' While community members often respond positively during clean-ups, maintaining the cleaned spaces remains challenging. 'Some areas go back to being dumping grounds shortly after we clean,' Motaung explained. ALSO READ: Illegal dumping on Modderfontein Road remains an eyesore The NPO tries to involve local ward councillors in their campaigns, but often ends up working alone. However, the CoE's Thembisa Waste Office was a consistent supporter, helping with rubbish collection, tractor loader backhoes and tipper trucks for rubble removal. One of their most impactful recent projects was cleaning a bridge that had become a health hazard and an obstacle for pedestrians. 'The waste blocked the bridge, so crossing it was unsafe. We couldn't just walk past, so we organised a clean-up,' said Motaung. The team restored the bridge with support from the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), the Dipalesa Foundation and two community members. Looking ahead, Clean Environment plans to launch a campaign called #KeGame in partnership with the WESSA. This initiative will combine clean-ups with educational awareness drives in Thembisa, running weekly or biweekly. An upcoming focus area will be Winnie Mandela Zone 4. 'We randomly select some of the worst dumping sites and clean them to benefit the community. We're committed to keeping Thembisa clean, one spot at a time,' Motaung said. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
14-05-2025
- General
- IOL News
Celebrating Eco-Schools: WESSA awards recognise environmental champions in South Africa
Western Cape's final awards event celebrated 35 schools, including 5 Green Flag recipients and long-standing contributors like Sir Lowry's Pass Primary. Image: WESSA The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) recently concluded its annual Eco-Schools Programme provincial awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements of over 350 schools nationwide that are actively championing sustainability, climate action, and environmental education. This year's awards serve not only as a commendation but also as an inspiration for learners throughout South Africa to engage in and address pressing environmental challenges. According to Nomfundo Ndlovu, the Senior Programme Manager for Schools and Youth at WESSA, 'These awards are a testament to the power of climate change education in building informed, proactive, and resilient communities. Through the Eco-Schools programme, learners across South Africa are addressing environmental challenges and driving change within their school communities that create sustainable impact. It is an honour to support and celebrate the leadership of our youth in shaping a better world.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Gauteng recognised 76 schools, including 42 ADvTECH Group schools and 6 Sun International Eco-Schools receiving Green Flag status Image: WESSA Western Cape: A total of 35 schools were honoured for their outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, with five achieving the prestigious Green Flag status, which recognises global excellence in environmental education. The awards ceremony also acknowledged four Platinum Awards, two Gold Awards, and two International Flags. Special decade recognitions were given to schools such as Sir Lowry's Pass Primary and Newberry House Montessori Primary School for their sustained leadership in the Eco-Schools programme. A total of 35 schools were honoured for their outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, with five achieving the prestigious Green Flag status, which recognises global excellence in environmental education. The awards ceremony also acknowledged four Platinum Awards, two Gold Awards, and two International Flags. Special decade recognitions were given to schools such as Sir Lowry's Pass Primary and Newberry House Montessori Primary School for their sustained leadership in the Eco-Schools programme. Mpumalanga: In this province, 18 schools were awarded, with an impressive 13 achieving Platinum 2 status. Five Glencore-supported schools were recognised with Bronze Awards, while six additional schools marked the beginning of their Eco-Schools journey at the participation level. In this province, 18 schools were awarded, with an impressive 13 achieving Platinum 2 status. Five Glencore-supported schools were recognised with Bronze Awards, while six additional schools marked the beginning of their Eco-Schools journey at the participation level. Free State: In collaboration with the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, WESSA recognised an impressive 120 schools for their environmental achievements and community engagement. Among these, Zamaleka Primary School secured the prestigious Diamond Award, while Retshedisitswe Secondary School was honoured with a Gold Award, reflecting deep-rooted commitments to sustainability. In collaboration with the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, WESSA recognised an impressive 120 schools for their environmental achievements and community engagement. Among these, Zamaleka Primary School secured the prestigious Diamond Award, while Retshedisitswe Secondary School was honoured with a Gold Award, reflecting deep-rooted commitments to sustainability. KwaZulu-Natal: The province honoured 46 schools, with ten receiving Green Flag awards. A highlight was the Strelitzia Award presented to The Birches Pre-Primary and Epworth School for over two decades of dedication to the Eco-Schools programme. Young environmental advocate Romario Valentine inspired attendees with a keynote address urging collective responsibility for nature. The province honoured 46 schools, with ten receiving Green Flag awards. A highlight was the Strelitzia Award presented to The Birches Pre-Primary and Epworth School for over two decades of dedication to the Eco-Schools programme. Young environmental advocate Romario Valentine inspired attendees with a keynote address urging collective responsibility for nature. Gauteng: Acknowledging 76 schools, including 42 from the ADvTECH Group and six Sun International Eco-Schools—all awarded Green Flags. YERA participant Khonaye Gcaza delivered an impassioned speech detailing her journey from Eco-Club founder to national youth advocate, spotlighting her innovative green roof prototype. Acknowledging 76 schools, including 42 from the ADvTECH Group and six Sun International Eco-Schools—all awarded Green Flags. YERA participant Khonaye Gcaza delivered an impassioned speech detailing her journey from Eco-Club founder to national youth advocate, spotlighting her innovative green roof prototype. Eastern Cape: Kabega Primary School was awarded the WESSA Group Award for its extensive contributions to local conservation projects and clean-ups. Nineteen schools were recognised in the province, with specific commendations for maintaining their environmental commitment over the last decade. Kabega Primary School was awarded the WESSA Group Award for its extensive contributions to local conservation projects and clean-ups. Nineteen schools were recognised in the province, with specific commendations for maintaining their environmental commitment over the last decade. Limpopo: Sixteen schools were honoured, with 6 achieving Green Flag status. Notable achievements included Maribe Primary School receiving the Diamond Award for its exceptional engagement in environmental education. The WESSA Eco-Schools Programme, part of a global initiative active in 101 countries, promotes a transformational approach in schools by integrating sustainability deeply into the curriculum and school culture. Supported by the South African government and various private sector partners, WESSA's efforts contribute significantly to tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and equipping youth with the skills necessary to lead future environmental initiatives.
