MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Tourism Bay of Plenty offers a highly innovative programme which is actively encouraging the Coastal Bay of Plenty’s visitor sector to work towards a net zero carbon and regenerative future.
The 12-week programme, called The Green Room | Te Rūma Kākāriki, delivered by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), was initially funded by Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, to enable 100 organisations to complete the programme for free.
The Green Room | Te Rūma Kākāriki consists of onsite visits, online webinars, and a customised action plan for each participant to help them gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to actively pursue zero carbon and regenerative goals which align with the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment and Tiaki Promise.
Graduates include tourism operators, accommodation, hospitality, community group representatives and event sector organisations.
Tourism Bay of Plenty Head of Strategy and Insights, Richard Faire, says "In June 2024 we reached a key milestone with 100 organisations successfully graduating from the programme. I’m now pleased to announce that for the next 12 months, the programme will continue thanks to Tauranga City Councils Sustainability Innovation Fund."
“Consumer values are changing - locals and visitors increasingly want to support businesses and destinations that give back to the environment and their local community, so we’ve been progressively rolling this programme out to businesses across Te Moananui ā Toi | the Coastal Bay of Plenty.”
The programme supports the Government target for New Zealand to be net carbon zero by 2050.
“We need to reset the tourism sector to ensure we deliver high-quality experiences for domestic and international visitors which also have a positive impact within local communities. We want tourism to contribute to the restoration and protection of our natural environment and we also want to ensure that the sector is economically sustainable,” says Richard.
If you’d like to know more or if you're keen to sign up, please email richard@bayofplentynz.com.
