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Sustainable Urban Development: A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Neutrality and Fast-Tracking Climate Action

In the ever-growing challenge of climate change, cities worldwide are taking center stage as they navigate the delicate balance between rapid urbanization and environmental sustainability. Combinig “Climate Neutrality and Sustainable Urban Development with Climate Action” serves as a comprehensive guide, outlining a roadmap for cities to achieve climate neutrality. This framework emphasizes the integration of diverse initiatives, addressing the multifaceted aspects of climate change. Simultaneously, the imperative of fast-tracking sustainable urban development with climate action is highlighted, showcasing the need for innovative strategies to transform urban landscapes into resilient, eco-friendly hubs. Understanding Climate Neutrality At the core of sustainable urban development lies the concept of climate neutrality, where cities strive to balance their greenhouse gas emissions with equivalent removal or offset measures. Achieving climate neutrality is a crucial milestone in the global effort to combat climate change, preventing further environmental degradation and securing a sustainable future for urban areas. Key Components of a Combined Climate Neutrality and Sustainable Urban Development Framework Cities that are making it possible There are many cities worldwide proving that sustainable urban development with climate action is prossible, such as Machu Picchu, the world’s first carbon neutral certified tourist destination and Bonito, a brazilian ecotourism destination whis is leading climate action by example, also as carbon neutral certified. Another example is the city of Curitiba, in Brazil, which has just been awarded as the world’s most sustainable smart-city in the world by the World Smart City Awards 2023. Conclusion Combining the “Climate Neutrality Framework” with the imperative of “Sustainable Urban Development with Climate Action” provides a holistic guide for cities. By integrating emission reduction strategies, renewable energy, sustainable transportation, circular economy practices, green infrastructure, community engagement, and innovative policies, urban centers can accelerate their transition to sustainable, resilient hubs. Embracing these initiatives positions cities as beacons of environmental responsibility, leading the way toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. At Green Initiative, we empower organizations to integrate climate action at the core of their business models, helping achieve decarbonization targets and comply with international climate action standards. Contact us here. by Yves Hemelryck, from the Green Initiative Team

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Sustainable Business Leadership Through Climate Positive Certification

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Becoming climate positive certified can offer several benefits for a company, both in terms of its environmental impact and its business operations. Here are some reasons why a company might consider obtaining climate positive certification: Environmental Responsibility Climate positive certification signifies a company’s commitment to taking meaningful action to address climate change, meaning that your climate action has gone beyond neutrality, actually creating an environmental and climate benefit by removing additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This can help enhance the company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible entity, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, investors, and partners. Competitive Advantage In a market where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, being climate positive certified can give a company a competitive edge. Consumers and clients are more likely to support and engage with businesses that are taking concrete steps to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Risk Management Climate change poses significant risks to businesses, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and physical impacts. By becoming climate positive certified, a company can demonstrate to stakeholders that it is actively managing these risks and adapting to a changing climate. Innovation and Creativity Pursuing climate positive certification often requires a company to innovate and develop new processes, products, and technologies. This can lead to enhanced creativity within the organization and potentially open up new revenue streams from sustainable products and services. Attracting Talent Many employees, especially those from younger generations, are concerned about climate change and seek employment with companies that share their values. Being climate positive certified can help attract and retain top talent who are passionate about sustainability. Investor Appeal Climate positive certification can make a company more attractive to socially responsible investors who consider environmental performance as part of their investment criteria. This could potentially lead to increased access to funding and improved investor relations. Long-Term Viability Addressing climate change isn’t just about short-term gains; it’s about ensuring the long-term viability of the company in a world affected by climate-related challenges. By obtaining certification, a company demonstrates its commitment to being part of the solution, which can contribute to its overall sustainability and success. Regulatory Compliance As governments and international bodies implement more stringent regulations to mitigate climate change, being climate positive certified can position a company ahead of regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties. Stakeholder Engagement Climate positive certification can foster stronger relationships with various stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, communities, and NGOs. This engagement can lead to collaborative efforts and partnerships to address shared sustainability goals. Positive Brand Image Climate positive certification can significantly enhance a company’s brand image, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship and inspiring other businesses and industries to follow suit. Ultimately, becoming climate positive certified is not only a responsible decision for the planet but can also yield tangible business benefits by aligning a company’s operations with sustainability goals and positioning it as a leader in its industry. Empower Your Business Journey Towards Climate Positive Certification Today! Calling all visionary business owners and leaders! Unlock the transformative power of sustainability with our expert guidance towards climate positive certification. Elevate your business’s reputation as an environmental leader, gain a competitive edge in the sustainability-focused market, actively manage climate-related risks, foster innovation, attract top talent and investors, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. Let us guide you in shaping a more sustainable and successful future – contact us today to embark on the journey toward climate positive certification.

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Estância Mimosa is the first Climate Positive certified ecotourism attraction in the world

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Addressing Climate Change in Tourism: The Glasgow Declaration’s Strategic Framework Climate change is one of the major problems faced by humanity today. Since 2021, the Glasgow Declaration has offered all actors in the tourism sector a strategic framework that encourages the internalization of climate actions in all areas of the tourism value chain: destinations, attractions, companies, and tourists. In this context, Estância Mimosa, a renowned ecotourism tour in Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, celebrates an unprecedented achievement for the world tourism sector. It became the first tourist attraction in the world to receive the Climate Positive Certification, granted by the international organization Green Initiative. This achievement highlights Estância Mimosa’s commitment and hard work since its foundation in 1999, not only towards environmental sustainability and the preservation of local biodiversity but also with the climate action goals proposed by the United Nations and the Glasgow Declaration for Tourism. To obtain this prestigious certification, Estância Mimosa started the Green Initiative Certification Cycle in 2023, demonstrating compliance with the organization’s strict criteria of sustainability and environmental responsibility. With this perspective in mind, the INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON CLIMATE ACTION IN TOURISM took place in Bonito on July 27, 2023. The event featured the participation of Dr. Saulo Rodrigues, Sustainability and Climate Action Manager, representing the Ministry of Tourism, Edson Barros, as well as Dr. Daniel Galvan from UNFCCC, and Virginia Fernandez-Trapa from the World Tourism Organization, among other stakeholders from the national tourism sector. Estância Mimosa: Leading the Way as a Climate Positive Certified Attraction The Climate Positive Certification demonstrates that Estância Mimosa not only has a neutral balance between its emissions, captures, and offsets but also actively contributes to the mitigation of climate change by preserving and recovering native forests within the limits of the attraction, which account for more than 84 % of the total area of the property. The preservation of these forests guarantees that the carbon in their biomass is not released into the atmosphere through exploitation, and it allows more carbon to be captured by plants during forest restoration. Sustainable Ecotourism Throughout the project, all sources of greenhouse gas emissions from the attraction were quantified for the year 2022 and classified into four categories proposed by the ISO 14064 methodology, namely: The carbon footprint calculation was carried out following the principles of Relevance, Completeness, Consistency, Transparency, and Precision, considering the complete scope 1, 2, and 3 of the attraction. This means that all emissions relating to the operation and the business value chain were assessed in a detailed and standardized manner to allow the comparison of results in the coming years and show the effect of the reduction measures that will be taken. All raw materials used in the attraction were accounted for, from the consumption of fuel and paper to the consumption of rice, meat, and beans. Among the results, we have that the emissions of Estância Mimosa in 2022 were 277.76 tons of CO2 equivalent, which results in 12.46kg of CO2 per visitor received in 2022. The analysis of carbon capture in 2022 was carried out by combining detailed maps of the property’s vegetation cover using UAV technology, satellite images, and studies of forest inventory and carbon capture. Estância Mimosa is a rural property with a significant extension of primary forests and forest regeneration areas, also officially protected by a private reserve – RPPN. This survey found that the forest regeneration areas, equivalent to 89 hectares, captured a total of 460.36 tons of CO2 in their aerial biomass throughout 2022, which is greater than the total emissions of the attraction. Regeneration areas have an accelerated accumulation of biomass in their initial phase of development, which then tends to decrease as the forest becomes more mature. In addition, the carbon stock present in primary forest areas was estimated, which in addition to avoiding greenhouse gas emissions, has an apparent effect on environmental additionality in the region since it is home to a wide range of birds, mammals, and other animals, already identified on the property. Luiza Coelho, Sustainability Director at Estância Mimosa, expressed her gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the attraction’s ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable practices and inspiring other companies in the sector to follow this path. “The Carbon Neutral Certification in the Climate Positive category is an extraordinary milestone for Estância Mimosa and an incentive for us to continue our work in the pursuit of excellence in sustainable ecotourism. We are proud to be leaders in this journey, and we thank all those involved who made it possible “. The Award The Climate Positive Certification was awarded to Eduardo and Simone Coelho, Directors of the Rio da Prata Group (www.gruporiodaprata.com.br), of which Estância Mimosa is part, during the Seminar on Climate Action in Tourism: Global Challenges and Local Opportunities for Innovation, an event held at Sebrae, Bonito, MS on July 27, 2023. About Estância Mimosa Located in Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, Estância Mimosa is an acclaimed ecotourism tour known for its lush nature, well-preserved trails, and stunning waterfalls. Committed to sustainability, it offers visitors memorable experiences in harmony with nature. The site is the only tourist attraction in Bonito (MS) that offers trails and waterfalls within a private reserve – RPPN in which it is possible to enjoy direct contact with preserved nature, walk along trails through the forest, see more than 255 species of birds or come across one of the 32 species of cataloged mammals. More information: http://www.estanciamimosa.eco.br Press Contact Name: Luiza Coelho Position: Director of Sustainability of Grupo Rio da Prata E-mail: luiza@gruporiodaprata.com.br Phone: 5567999389064 Become a Climate and Nature Positive Business Green Initiative Certifications are a crucial step towards promoting sustainability and responsible environmental practices across various industries. These certifications are awarded to organizations and businesses that demonstrate a genuine commitment to reducing their carbon footprint, conserving natural resources, and mitigating the impacts of their operations on the environment. By adhering to rigorous standards and guidelines, companies can quantify their greenhouse gas emissions, identify areas for improvement, and implement

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LimaTours Sets a New Standard for Sustainable Tourism in Peru

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Tourism in Peru and Carbon Neutrality in Action With its tremendous growth and global reach, the tourism industry has become a significant contributor to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, tourism operations must embrace sustainable practices and take the lead in mitigating their impact. LimaTours, a prominent Peruvian tour operator, has emerged as a trailblazer in this endeavor by becoming Peru’s first Carbon Neutral tourism operator and one of the pioneers worldwide. Their commitment to climate action, as embodied by their participation in the Glasgow Declaration for Tourism and Climate Action, is a testament to their dedication to supporting the goals of the Climate Paris Agreement. Recognized by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and certified by Green Initiative, LimaTours is now poised to transform the industry by decarbonizing its value chain and offering innovative carbon-neutral tourism services. The Urgent Need for Climate Action in Tourism The tourism industry’s rapid growth has come at a cost to the environment. The carbon footprint of transportation, accommodation, and various tourism-related activities has contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. With climate change posing unprecedented risks to natural and cultural heritage sites, biodiversity, and local communities, the tourism sector must positively collaborate and act urgently to reduce its climate impact. The industry can play a vital role in mitigating climate change and safeguarding destinations for future generations by introducing climate action measures, such as carbon neutrality. LimaTours: Pioneering Climate Action in Tourism LimaTours, a renowned tour operator deeply rooted in Peruvian hospitality, has emerged as a leading force in sustainable tourism. Their recognition as Peru’s first Carbon Neutral tourism operator and one of the global pioneers highlights their unwavering commitment to sustainability and climate responsibility. By actively participating in the Glasgow Declaration for Tourism and Climate Action, LimaTours has joined hands with other industry stakeholders to address the urgent need to mitigate the tourism industry’s carbon footprint. Leading the Charge with Carbon Neutrality LimaTours’ achievement of being certified as the first Carbon Neutral tourism operator in Peru is a significant milestone in the industry’s journey toward sustainability. Recognized by the UNFCCC and certified by Green Initiative, LimaTours has become a shining example for other tourism operators. LimaTours has engaged in a solid carbon footprint management process by measuring, reducing, and offsetting its carbon emissions, internalizing climate action at the DNA of its business model. This milestone catalyzes change, promoting innovation in LimaTourism services and efficiency in their overall tourism operations. Decarbonizing the Value Chain LimaTours understands that true sustainability extends beyond achieving carbon neutrality. They are committed to decarbonizing their entire value chain by implementing innovative practices that reduce emissions at every stage of their operations. By addressing transportation, accommodation, and activities, LimaTours aims to minimize its carbon footprint while ensuring exceptional experiences for its customers. Through collaboration with partners and suppliers, they are driving the adoption of climate-smart practices throughout the tourism ecosystem. LimaTours climate action proposition focuses on reducing its carbon emissions and providing innovative, carbon-neutral tourism services. They are on the way to revolutionizing the industry by introducing climate-friendly initiatives and offering unique experiences that prioritize carbon-neutral tourism. From eco-lodges powered by renewable energy to carefully curated tours promoting local culture and conservation, LimaTours is reshaping how travelers explore Peru. Are you looking for support to achieve Carbon Neutrality for your tourism business? Look no further! The Green Initiative team is here to help you on your sustainability journey. Our dedicated experts are committed to assisting companies like yours in reducing carbon emissions and working towards achieving Carbon Neutrality. With our extensive knowledge and experience in green initiatives, we provide customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need guidance on measuring your carbon footprint, implementing energy-efficient practices, or exploring renewable energy options, our team will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan. By partnering with the Green Initiative team, you will gain access to a network of sustainability experts, industry best practices, and cutting-edge technologies. Our team will provide ongoing support, monitoring progress, and offering guidance to ensure your journey towards Carbon Neutrality is successful. Together, let’s make a positive impact on the environment and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability. Contact us today to learn more about how the Green Initiative team can support your company on its path to achieving Carbon Neutrality. Contact us here today!

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Carbon Neutral Logistics: A Business Opportunity and Climate Imperative

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The context The logistics industry plays a significant role in the economy. The global logistics market is projected to reach USD 12.68 trillion by 2027, driven by the growth of e-commerce, globalization, and increasing demand for the efficient supply chain management. Furthermore, international trade and logistics create significant employment opportunities. In the United States alone, the logistics industry employs over 10 million people, with employment in the sector expected to grow by 7% between 2019 and 2029. Similarly, in Europe, the logistics sector employs over 11 million people, making it one of the largest employers in the region. Why is carbon-neutral logistics necessary? Decarbonizing logistics is important for several reasons. Firstly, logistics is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global transportation sector, which includes logistics and international trade, is responsible for approximately 24% of energy-related CO2 emissions. Additionally, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) estimates that maritime shipping alone accounts for around 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, projected to increase by up to 250% by 2050 without additional action. Decarbonizing logistics is essential for achieving global emissions reduction targets and addressing the climate crisis. An emerging demand for carbon neutral logistical services There are several reasons why logistic companies should invest in carbon neutral service. First and foremost, it is essential to address the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. With the transportation sector responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, reducing emissions from logistics operations is crucial for meeting global climate goals. Moreover, investing in carbon neutral services can also be a business opportunity for logistics companies. Many businesses and consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their supply chain and are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. By offering carbon neutral services, logistics companies can differentiate themselves from competitors, appeal to environmentally conscious customers, and potentially increase revenue. In fact, there is growing evidence to suggest that there is a significant demand for climate smart or carbon neutral logistical services. • A survey conducted by UNCTAD found that 70% of respondents plan to purchase more products and services from companies with a lower carbon footprint.• A report by DHL found that 69% of companies surveyed have implemented or plan to implement a carbon reduction strategy in their supply chain (DHL, 2019).• McKinsey also found that 47% of companies surveyed have set a carbon reduction target for their supply chain, and 87% of these companies believe their suppliers can help them achieve their targets.• A study by EcoVadis found that 62% of companies surveyed said that sustainability is a key factor in their purchasing decisions, and 38% have implemented sustainability criteria in their supplier selection process.• The International Transport Forum estimated that there will be a demand for up to 60% lower emissions in the global logistics sector by 2050 (International Transport Forum, 2018). In summary, investing in climate smart logistical services is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, meeting global climate goals, and addressing customer demand for more sustainable products and services. Climate neutral logistics on practice DHL DHL is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and offers a range of carbon neutral shipping options to its customers. These options include carbon offsetting, biofuel, and electric vehicles. Maersk Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2050 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “Carbon Neutral Programme.” UPS UPS has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 12% by 2025 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “UPS Carbon Neutral” program. FedEx FedEx has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “FedEx Carbon Neutral” program. Amazon Amazon has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2040 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “Shipment Zero” program. These companies are just a few examples of logistics providers that are actively working to reduce their carbon footprint and offering carbon neutral options to their customers. By investing in these services, customers can offset the carbon emissions associated with their shipments and support companies that are leading the way in sustainability through decarbonizing their value chain. Who is leading this change? Some of the key players promoting the decarbonization of international trade and logistics are: IMO The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target of reducing emissions from the sector by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Global Maritime Forum Is leading a global call to action with the aim to accelerating maritime shipping’s decarbonization with the development and deployment of commercially viable deep sea zero emission vessels by 2030 towards full decarbonization by 2050. World Economic Forum Through the Supply Chain & Transport CEO Statement, the World Economic Forum is promoting a coalition of business leader in the transportation supply chain to run entirely on net-zero energy sources by 2050. Why Green Initiative? At Green Initiative we are working with leading global shippers and carriers to reduce their carbon footprint and improve climate performance in freight transportation. Our aim is to support the decarbonization of national and international trade by 30% by 2030 and to support the transition to zero emissions freight sector. We collaborate with our global partners to quantify impacts, identify solutions, and advocate logistics decarbonization strategies.

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Bonito (MS) is Leading Brazilian ecotourism Climate Action and raising the bar for other destinations worldwide

Bonito: How a Brazilian ecotourism destination is leading climate action by example

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As the world recovers from the shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding a more sustainable tourism sector remains a shared responsibility of tourism firms and destinations. Amid mounting evidence of severe climate change, points that the window of opportunity to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and avoid a climate disaster is rapidly narrowing. Atmospheric temperatures have already increased by about 1⁰ Celsius from preindustrial levels, and keeping that increase to less than 1.5⁰ through 2050 will require intense efforts by the public and private sectors. At the COP26 conference in November 2021, the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and their partners issued the Glasgow Declaration for Tourism and Climate, which calls on all tourism stakeholders to demonstrate a shared commitment to mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by integrating climate action into the core of tourism business models and management tools. Brazil’s ecotourism industry relies on landscapes with extraordinary biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems that provide food and shelter for native species. One of Brazil’s key ecotourism centers is Bonito, a fantastic destination in Mato Grosso do Sul that rests atop the Guarani Aquifer, the second largest source of freshwater on earth. Bonito’s efforts to achieve carbon-neutral certification are based on over two decades of implementing sustainable tourism management practices. As early as 1995, Bonito created a Tourism Voucher system that is designed to control the number of tourists per attraction based on a scientific reference point for tourist capacity, and Bonito has since emerged as one of the most lauded ecotourism destinations in the country. After Bonito received the WTN Global Responsible Tourism Award in 2013 (London), government authorities launched a public-private destination governance body – FUNDTUR, which plays a key role in promoting sustainable tourism development best practices for Bonito. The carbon neutral certification process led by Green Initiative, was initiated with the signing of the Glasgow Declaration by FUNDTUR, in coordination with the Bonito municipal government and the state secretariats for the environment, tourism, and economic development. The carbon-neutral certification cycle requires an accurate assessment of the destination’s carbon footprint. This footprint establishes the baseline for reducing Bonito’s carbon emissions, which will need to fall by 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050, in accordance with the guidelines of the Paris Agreement. The certification process also includes an assessment of the GHG capture and storage capacity of local forests, which include eight of Bonito’s main ecotourism attractions spread over 5,000 hectares. According to the carbon-footprint assessment, the main GHG emission sources are fuel consumption by vehicles (52,36% of total emissions), followed by the decomposition of solid waste (22,64%). The mitigation plan will focus first on solid-waste management (including food waste), reducing methane emissions at landfills by channeling organic waste to appropriate sites through governmental and community programs. In addition to reducing GHG emissions, the proper treatment of organic waste can provide opportunities to produce valuable products such as biochar, compost, biogas, and organic fertilizers. Local farmers can use organic fertilizers as a substitute for nitrogen-based fertilizers, further slashing GHG emissions from agriculture while complementing ecosystem restoration and reforestation projects currently underway. Reducing the carbon footprint of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will be vital to achieve Bonito’s climate targets. Vehicle emissions pose an especially complex challenge, and emissions reduction will require sustained investments in electric mobility. By developing the capacity to measure and monitor its climate performance, Bonito is raising the bar in climate action for ecotourism destinations world-wide, leading the way to new destination management practices, that should mainstream climate action as a significantly relevant aspect for long-term prosperity for any destination. This article for Transforming One Planet Vision into Action has been prepared by FUNDTUR, Mato Grosso do Sul Destination Management Organization. For more information visit Green Initiative website. Green Initiative, a leading sustainable certification company, is proud to announce that it has partnered with the UNWTO and the Travel Foundation to support the Glasgow Declaration Capacity Building Working Group. ENGAGE NOW Commit to a new level of leadership and competitiveness in the tourism industry by introducing climate action at the core of your business model, and become Climate Positive, Carbon Neutral and /or Carbon Measured certified. Click here to learn more about Green Initiative Certifications and Climate Action Solutions for Tourism.

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A Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations

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As the world continues to recover from the unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding a sustainable tourism sector remains a shared responsibility for tourism organizations worldwide. Amid mounting evidence of severe climate change, the window of opportunity for swiftly reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is rapidly narrowing. In November 2021 The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), in collaboration with the Travel Foundation, launched the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism at the climate-change conference COP26. The declaration calls on all tourism stakeholders to publicly demonstrate a joint commitment towards GHG reduction and climate resilience. In the wake of the Glasgow Declaration, the tourism industry is striving to embrace the challenges posedby climate change. Reaching a broad consensus on how to address climate change would be of utmost importance, impacting tourism industry developments and performance in the years to come. Since 2014 Green Initiative has been working alongside tourism businesses and destinations worldwide, introducing best climate action practices leading to efficient processes, access to climate financing, cost reductions, compliance with ESG standards, and international climate leadership. As part of our continuous support to accelerate the decarbonization of global tourism, a Climate Action Guide for Tourism Businesses and Destinations was prepared by Green Initiative and technically reviewed by the staff of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), United Nations Climate Change (UNFCCC) and United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Forthcoming at COP 27th At Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, the guide provides a practical roadmap to define baseline emissions, monitor carbon footprint changes, set emissions targets, evaluate progress, and publicize climate commitments and successes. At Green Initiative, we believe that unsustainable business-as-usual models will lose competitiveness and disappear. It’s time to reinforce collaborative processes and work together, “Building Tourism Back Better”. Please click here to download the Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations.

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Brazil is on its way to Certifying the First Carbon-Neutral Ecotourism Destination Worldwide

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Mainstreaming climate Action Bonito is mainstreaming carbon action to become the first carbon-neutral certified tourism destination. Brazil’s ecotourism is dominated by landscapes with astonishing biodiversity hotspots and vibrant ecosystems that provide food and shelter for native species. One of Brazil’s ecotourism “jewels” is Bonito, a small destination in Mato Grosso do Sul, which happens to be on top of the second largest fresh water on earth – The Guarani Aquifer. sustainable tourism As the world continues to recover from the unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding a more sustainable tourism sector remains a shared responsibility of tourism businesses and destinations worldwide. At the COP26 climate change conference held in November 2021, the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), and their partners issued the Glasgow Declaration on Tourism and Climate. In this context, since August 2022, the Tourism Authority of Mato Grosso do Sul (FUNDTUR) has started a relevant effort to certify Bonito as the first Carbon Neutral ecotourism destination worldwide. According to Bruno Wendling, President of FUNDTUR: “our goal is to generate new capabilities to proactively and strategically execute GHG management, which will lead to climate-smart tourism products and services and the strategic positioning of Bonito as an international ecotourism destination”. Climate Action In practice, this means that Bonito will start the implementation: (i) concrete mitigation actions to avoid and reduce GHG emissions through investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the circular economy. (ii) work on incentives to attract and promote private investment that seeks a positive impact on climate and biodiversity. Bonito’s climate certification cycle is led by Green Initiative, which was also responsible for the carbon-neutral certification of Machu Picchu. In addition to supporting Bonito’s carbon footprint analysis, Green Initiative is evaluating the carbon sinking capacity of the local forest within the specific scope of tourist attractions. With the development of the ability to measure and monitor Bonito’s climate performance, it will be possible to set emission targets, assess progress and, through this, attract investments and climate finance that allow us to boost the international competitiveness of the Bonito destination. Learn how to engage your Business in a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness. Become Climate Positive, Climate Neutral, and Climate Measured Certified here.

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SENAC – Driving Climate Action in Brazil Tourism and Trade Sector

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About SENAC The National Commercial Training Service (SENAC) is the leading professional education agent focused on Brazil’s Trade of Goods, Services, and Tourism. It is present in more than 1,800 municipalities, from North to South of Brazil, where it maintains the state-of-the-art infrastructure of more than 600 school units, pedagogical companies, and mobile units. To support the tourism sector in the State of Bahia, in its alignment with the main trends and climate regulations at a national and international level, SENAC has been working since August 2022 to apply good climate management practices for its School Restaurant in Bahia. The Climate Action Project The goal of this first climate action project is to introduce the management of carbon emissions in the SENAC school restaurants, seeking to: Comply with the climate guidelines promoted by the World Tourism Organization through the Glasgow Declaration. Comply with UN Climate Change GHG emissions management protocols. Achieve the global Carbon Neutral certification as recognition to be offered by the Green Initiative. The success of this effort could mean the development of new internal capacities and, consequently, a unique reference for the tourism and commerce sector of the State of Bahia and the country in terms of climate action. SENAC and Green Initiative Green Initiative is supporting SENAC by bringing essential carbon mitigation practices to the center of its business model that will contribute to improvements in the efficiency of operations, as well as raising the awareness of students and thousands of customers who use the services of the Restaurante-Escola. Learn how to engage your business in a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness. Become Climate Positive, Climate Neutral, and Climate Measured certified. Lastly, click here to contact us to find out more about taking your organization to the next level in Climate Action.

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World exchange becomes Carbon Neutral certified

WorldXchange becomes Carbon Neutral Certified

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Worldxchange is the first Currency Exchange House in the world to reach the Carbon Neutral Certification The Company WorldXchange, a foreign currency exchange house with more than 40 years of experience in the national market. Conveniently located in the country’s main airports, our services are characterized by their reliability, agility, and competitiveness. The company´s ISO 9001 certification ensures compliance with high-quality standards. It guarantees commitment and continued improvement. Tourism is one of the most critical sectors for the country’s economic recovery. It provides outstanding contribution to generating work and income opportunities. Peru needs to promote the reactivation of Tourism in a different way. Namely, by internalizing the lessons that COVID-19 has left us. Lessons Learned One of the ways to promote the recovery of tourism activity is by supporting the international climate agenda. WorldXchange understands that the Peruvian tourism sector must engage in a sustainable development path. This is by adopting smart climate action practices that will contribute with efficiency and innovation – Building Tourism Back Better. The tourism sector of Peru has been taking significant steps in this direction. The certification of Machu Picchu as the first carbon-neutral UNESCO Designated Site is perhaps the best example for this. This good news has spread worldwide and has given our emblematic heritage site access to financing sources and international recognition. Like National Geographic, Lonely Planet, United Nations Climate Change, and the World Tourism Organization. At WorldXchange we believe that this effort is consistent with the current needs of tourism industry and needs to be widely supported by all tourism stakeholders, including airports, hotels, tourism operators and agencies, transport, and the entire set of organizations that make up the value chain. In this context, WorldXchange has been working with Green Initiative to introduce climate action at the core of its business model. “One of the lessons that Covid-19 leaves us is that from wherever we are, we must do things differently. At WorldXchange we are committed to the reactivation of tourism with climate responsibility. Responsible companies must support intelligent and climate-responsible economic reactivation. From which, we all benefit. This is our great challenge today.” Raul Villa Green Initiative is very proud to announce that WorldXchange is the first Currency Exchange House in the world to reach the Carbon Neutral Certification. Engage Learn how to engage your Travel Business into a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness. Become Climate Positive, Climate Neutral and Climate Measured certified here.

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