Uniting for a Cleaner Future: Public-Private Collaboration for Sustainable Tourism

On 25th November, UNEP (10YFP Secretariat), the Ministry of Tourism for the Republic of Mauritius, the Mauritius Tourism Authority, United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), and TUI Care Foundation collaborated to launch a three-day training workshop. Part of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI), the workshop brought together stakeholders from across the tourism sector to address an issue of urgent importance—the conservation of the unique biodiversity of Mauritius.

Embracing the Challenge: A Step Towards a Sustainable Future

As a small island state surrounded by the vast ocean, the significance of plastic pollution for Mauritius cannot be overstated. The ocean is not just a backdrop but a lifeline for the island, providing livelihoods for much of the population. Yet, the pristine beaches and marine ecosystems that attract nearly 1.3 million visitors annually are under threat from single-use plastics (SUPs). Dependence on SUPs remains one of the biggest environmental challenges, with severe consequences for the environment, society, economy, and health. Plastic pollution is the most harmful and persistent fraction of marine litter, posing a dire threat to the island's natural beauty and biodiversity.

During peak tourism seasons, the effective population of Mauritius doubles, significantly increasing waste generation. The island generates approximately 1,488 tonnes of waste daily, with plastics comprising 14%. Moreover, plastics contribute to climate change, accounting for around 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing plastic pollution in tourism is essential not only to protect Mauritius’ natural allure but also to support global climate goals and public health. Research shows that people are inhaling microplastics through the air, consuming them through food and water, and even absorbing them through the skin.

The Workshop: Fostering Collective Action and Sustainable Practices

The decision to hold the workshop reflects the urgent need for collective action to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices in the tourism sector in Mauritius. The GTPI, a global initiative led by UNEP and UN Tourism in partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, focuses on transitioning to a circular economy for plastics and mobilizing all stakeholders in the tourism value chain.

Day 1 of the workshop saw 75 participants come together to discuss the impact of plastic pollution on the environment, health, economy, and tourism industry. They explored practical solutions, fostering practices that prioritize reuse, reduction, recycling, and upcycling.

On the final days of the workshop, 31 representatives from hotels, tour operators, and other key stakeholders participated in the Train-the-Trainer programme. In her remarks, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh, the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius & Seychelles, highlighted the critical approach of creating a pool of independent GTPI trainers. Continuity in building the capacity of tourism professionals is crucial, as a single workshop, no matter how well-organized, is insufficient to drive systemic change. This dedicated pool of national trainers gained the skills to disseminate best practices and lessons learned, ensuring a ripple effect of positive change across the sector. 

In his closing remarks, Mr. Sydney Pierre, Junior Minister of Tourism, underlined that the importance of partnership between international and local stakeholders to enhance the country's efforts in reducing plastic pollution and promoting environmentally responsible practices.

A Collective Milestone for a Greener Tomorrow

This event marks a milestone in advancing a sustainable, circular economy for the tourism sector and ultimately the resilience of Mauritius. By uniting stakeholders and fostering collective action, Mauritius is taking significant steps towards a cleaner, greener future.

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Find out more about the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative.