The expansion of the tourism sector has made sustainable tourism an essential requirement rather than a mere option. Travelers are encouraged to evaluate the environmental consequences of their journeys in the various destinations they explore. In parallel, nations must develop and implement strong policies and legal frameworks to support the rapidly growing tourism industry.

In South Africa, the future of sustainable tourism faces significant challenges that highlight the critical need for effective legal structures. These challenges encompass a range of issues, including trophy hunting and irresponsible tourism practices, township tourism that neglects local development, inadequate waste management, inequitable trade practices affecting local enterprises, environmental conservation, the recognition and commemoration of historical events, the celebration and preservation of cultural heritage, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

Countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) look to the Southern African Chapter of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) to provide a local perspective on a global challenge, emphasizing our collective responsibility to foster a sustainable future.

The Southern African ICRT Chapter aims to achieve the following goals and objectives:

• To advocate for responsible tourism by promoting innovative ideas and implementing demonstration projects.

• To foster and support the exchange of knowledge among academics and practitioners in the field of responsible tourism.

• To organize conferences and workshops while sharing information on responsible tourism principles and practices through diverse media channels.

South Africa has established itself as a leader in sustainable tourism since 2002. This commitment was highlighted when more than 280 delegates from 20 nations gathered at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, where they endorsed the "Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism."

This declaration represented a collective commitment from various stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sectors, including entrepreneurs, tourism professionals, authorities, NGOs, and hotel groups, to uphold their economic, social, and environmental responsibilities in promoting sustainable tourism.

In accordance with the Cape Town Declaration, South Africa introduced and implemented the National Minimum Standard for Responsible Tourism (NMSRT) in 2011. The NMSRT was established by the National Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the South African National Accreditation System, to provide national accreditation for the South African tourism industry.

The accreditation process encompasses 41 criteria, categorized into four domains: sustainable operations and management, economic considerations, socio-cultural requirements, and environmental factors.

The Tourism Act, 3 of 2014 (the Act), aims to “facilitate the development and promotion of sustainable tourism for the benefit of the Republic, its residents, and its visitors.” Section 2(2) of the Act defines responsible tourism as tourism that:

"(a) seeks to avoid negative economic, environmental and social impacts;

(b) generates greater economic benefits for local people, enhances the well-being of host communities and improves working conditions and access to the tourism sector;

(c) involves local people in decisions that affect their lives;

(d) makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage and the maintenance of the world’s diversity;

(e) provides enjoyable experiences for tourists through meaningful connections with local people and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues;

(f) provides access for physically challenged people; and

(g) is culturally sensitive, engenders respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence."

The Act introduced a comprehensive national grading system for tourism, established protocols for addressing tourism-related complaints, created accreditation programs, and set up a national registry for tourist guides. These measures reflect a strong dedication to fostering sustainable tourism development. Notably, section 59 of the Act outlines specific offences and corresponding penalties for individuals who violate certain provisions within the legislation.

As we envision the future of travel, it is evident that sustainable tourism is not merely a passing trend; it is an essential necessity. By embracing sustainable practices, we can guarantee that tourism yields positive outcomes for both the environment and local communities. South Africa, with its focus on sustainable tourism, paves the way for responsible travel that not only preserves its natural beauty but also protects its invaluable resources for generations to come.

Lize-Mari Doubell and Candice Meyer, Bizcommunity.com