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Recap – Webinar on Regenerative Tourism: The Key Dimension for Ecological Sustainability and Business Competitiveness

On August 28, 2024, the Green Initiative hosted an exceptional international webinar titled “Regenerative Tourism: The New Dimension for Ecological Sustainability and Long-Term Business Competitiveness.” The event brought together a diverse group of experts, industry professionals, and global stakeholders to discuss the transformative potential of regenerative tourism. The webinar provided attendees with invaluable insights into how regenerative tourism practices are not only reshaping the future of travel but also contributing to global sustainability goals. Frédéric Perron-Welch, Head of Climate and Nature Policy at Green Initiative, kicked off the webinar with a warm welcome. “Regenerative tourism is not just about sustainability; it’s about restoring and enhancing the ecosystems and communities that make tourism possible,” said Perron-Welch, emphasizing the core philosophy of the event. Keynote Presentations Marcos Vaena – Senior Executive at IFC Marcos Vaena provided a comprehensive overview of the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Environmental and Social Performance Standards, illustrating how they align with the principles of regenerative tourism. He highlighted the synergies between green finance and regenerative practices, particularly in emerging markets. “In today’s world, going beyond sustainability is crucial for destinations that want to differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace. Regenerative tourism offers a blueprint for long-term success by ensuring that tourism projects do not adversely impact the natural assets that these countries possess,” Vaena stated. He also discussed how IFC’s performance standards, which include guidelines on labor conditions, community health, and biodiversity conservation, are critical in boosting competitiveness in the tourism sector. Virginia Fernandez-Trapa – Programme Coordinator, UN World Tourism Organization Virginia Fernandez-Trapa presented a compelling discussion on the “Regenerate Pathway” of The Glasgow Declaration. She emphasized that concept challenges conventional tourism practices by focusing on not only preserving but actively restoring ecosystems. “The regenerate pathway challenges us to go beyond conventional practices, focusing on restoring ecosystems and supporting nature’s ability to draw down carbon”, said Fernandez-Trapa She highlighted how the regenerate pathway is central to the goals of the Glasgow Declaration and emphasized the need for a balanced approach that incorporates environmental, social, and economic pillars of sustainable development. “At present and in alignment with the Glasgow Declaration pathways for us is clear, that regenerative can certainly play a role in accelerating the pace of change towards the needed balance, so that we can ultimately ensure sustainable development of our societies, and we need to integrate those regenerative arteries and policies and actions”, she added. Tenisha Brown-Williams – Senior Tourism Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank Tenisha Brown-Williams captivated the audience with compelling case studies from Barbados and Brazil, showcasing how regenerative tourism can lead to transformative change. She shared the story of Walker’s Reserve in Barbados, a former quarry transformed into a thriving ecotourism destination, and the IDB‘s Salvador program in Brazil, which empowers Afro-Brazilian communities through regenerative tourism. “I want to bring us all to one common point of agreement. We can all agree that in spite of the debates around sustainable turism and regenerative…. I think we could agree that given the climate crisis and other pressing vulnerabilities the global tourism industry must embrace in a new approach, so it is imperative for all stakeholders within the tourism value chain to adopt, what is called a transformative mindset, and this shift really involves moving beyond purely economic objectives to embrace the holistic reflections, which I have highlighted… On some rhetorical questions, we need to ponder: it’s tourism a benefit to the people at the destination or to the tourists?, said Brown-Williams. “I want to propose that a mind cannot be transformed without visible proof of change and tangible evidence of its impact. So the IDB’S Tourism sector framework has a line of action which deals with original knowledge agenda for the tourism sector that covers important issues for which there is a lack of information. We also need to continue to inspire by sharing examples which strengthen community based tourism enterprises such as the examples shared in Belize, the Bahamas and Dominica, with elements of regenerative tourism at it’s core”, she added. “I propose that the future of regenerative tourism hinges on our collective recognition that it is a mindset shift, brought to life through strategic policies and programs, and fully realized through robust partnerships across the entire tourism value chain. It is in this unified understanding and collaborative effort that we will shape a truly regenerated future for the global tourism industry. As we face unprecedented challenges, regenerative tourism offers a path forward that benefits both people and the planet. By fostering inclusive, community-driven initiatives, we can ensure that tourism serves as a powerful tool for positive change and long-term resilience,” she concluded. In closing, Tenisha Brown-Williams emphasized the critical importance of regenerative tourism as a transformative force within the industry. She called on all stakeholders to embrace this new approach, which prioritizes not only environmental sustainability but also social equity and cultural preservation. Inspiring Case Studies Gabriel Meseth – Project Manager, Inkaterra Hotels Gabriel Meseth presented Inkaterra’s pioneering efforts in ecotourism and sustainable development in Peru, focusing on their initiatives in the Amazon rainforest and the Machu Picchu cloud forest. He highlighted the successful restoration of these areas and the innovative waste management strategies that have made Machu Picchu the first carbon-neutral UNESCO Designated Site. “Inkaterra’s approach to regenerative tourism is deeply rooted in scientific research and community engagement. By restoring ecosystems and empowering local communities, we are not only preserving Peru’s natural heritage but also setting new standards for sustainable tourism worldwide,” Meseth explained. He also discussed the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these ambitious goals, citing the collaboration between Inkaterra, the Green Initiative, and local communities as a model for other regions. André Fortunato – Program Manager, CEPA (Customized Educational Programs Abroad) André Fortunato shared CEPA’s innovative approach to regenerative tourism through their study abroad programs in Costa Rica and Guatemala. He emphasized the importance of service learning and climate-positive actions in educating students and supporting local communities. “Through our programs, students not only learn about sustainability but actively contribute

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Origem Motos: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Mobility and Carbon Neutrality in Brazil

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Origem Motos, an innovative electric motorbike company based in Brazil, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration in an era marked by rapid urbanization, climate change, and the growing need for sustainable transportation solutions. Not only did their solutions immediately reduce GHG emissions compared to combustion motorcycles, but in 2023, they also went a step further by achieving the Carbon Neutral Certification, guaranteeing the complete offsetting of the emissions related to using and renting their electric motorbikes, in compliance with international standards. The Rise of Smart Electrical Transportation in Brazil The global transportation sector has significantly contributed to greenhouse gas emissions for decades, with gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles dominating the landscape. However, the urgent need to combat climate change has driven a surge in developing and adopting smart electrical transportation alternatives. Origem Motos is at the forefront of this transformative wave by pioneering electric motorbikes designed to cater to the needs of both individuals and businesses. With a robust electric motorbike fleet, Origem Motos is helping to reduce carbon emissions and usher in a cleaner, greener future for transportation in Brazil. Innovation at the Core Origem Motos is not just any electric motorbike company; it stands out due to its commitment to innovation. The company is pushing the boundaries of what electric motorbikes can offer regarding technology and performance. Here’s how Origem Motos is contributing to a more sustainable future: Advanced Electric Motorbikes Origem Motos designs eco-friendly, high-performance electric motorbikes. These bikes offer a cleaner and quieter riding experience while maintaining the power and range needed for urban transportation. Smart Charging Grid One of the most significant innovations is Origem Motos’ smart charging grid. It’s a network of strategically placed charging stations in the city that are easily accessible for riders. This infrastructure makes owning an electric motorbike more convenient and practical, addressing the range anxiety associated with electric vehicles. Cutting-Edge Technology Origem Motos incorporates state-of-the-art technology into their motorbikes. Features like smartphone integration, real-time data tracking, and GPS navigation enhance the riding experience and make electric motorbikes an attractive choice for tech-savvy consumers. Circular Economy in Practice Origem Motos’s approach to the circular economy is comprehensive, positively impacting the product’s lifecycle and the environment. This model is evident in several key areas: Design for Durability and Recyclability From the outset, Origem Motos designs its motorbikes to be durable, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. Additionally, the motorbikes are designed to be recyclable at the end of their lifecycle, ensuring that parts can be reused or repurposed, further reducing environmental impact. Product as a Service (PaaS) Origem Motos adopts a product-as-a-service model, offering leasing options for its electric motorbikes. This approach not only makes electric motorbikes more accessible but also ensures that Origem Motos retains responsibility for the maintenance, repair, and eventual recycling of the motorbikes. This model encourages efficient resource use and reduces waste. The circular economy model Origem Motos adopted significantly enhances their products’ value proposition. It reassures consumers that they are investing in a product that is not only innovative and accessible but also environmentally responsible. This model positions Origem Motos as a leader in sustainable practices within the transportation sector, reflecting a deep commitment to meeting the current needs of society and ensuring the well-being of future generations. Fighting Climate Change with Carbon Neutrality In 2023, the company took a step forward by achieving the Green Initiative’s Carbon Neutral Certification as a tangible expression of its commitment and dedication to sustainability. The process of obtaining the certification goes through 3 main steps: 1. Climate Pledge Companies like Origem Motos formally pledge to reduce their short- and long-term carbon footprint. This pledge serves as a guiding principle for their sustainability efforts. 2. Carbon Footprint Measurement A critical step in the certification process was the comprehensive measurement of Origem Motos’ carbon footprint, encompassing scopes 1, 2, and 3. This involved a rigorous assessment of direct and indirect emissions, from maintenance to transportation and other business activities. By identifying and quantifying these emissions, Origem Motos could pinpoint critical areas for reduction and set precise targets for improvement. 3. Carbon Credit Offset Origem Motos invested in high-impact carbon credits to neutralize its remaining carbon footprint. These credits support projects that reduce or capture greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere, such as Amazon forest conservation initiatives and developing clean energy technologies. This step offsets Origem Motos’ emissions and contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability. Building on the momentum of achieving carbon neutrality, Origem Motos is outlining its Climate Action Plan to further its commitment to environmental responsibility. This plan includes a series of ambitious targets and strategies designed to propel the company and its stakeholders towards a more sustainable future. Mitigating Climate Change through Electric Transportation in Brazil Brazil’s transition to electric transportation represents a transformative opportunity to address climate change while catalyzing socio-economic benefits. Electric vehicles have multifaceted advantages, highlighting their potential to revolutionize urban mobility, environmental health, and economic prosperity. Zero Tailpipe Emissions Electric motorbikes stand out for their absence of tailpipe emissions. Unlike traditional vehicles that release carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, electric motorbikes offer a clean alternative, directly contributing to reducing urban air pollution. This shift is crucial for Brazil, where many cities grapple with air quality issues that directly impact public health. Broader Environmental Impact Beyond tailpipe emissions, the lifecycle emissions of electric vehicles, including manufacturing and electricity generation, are increasingly lower due to advancements in renewable energy and battery technologies. As Brazil advances its renewable energy capacity, the environmental footprint of electric transportation is set to decrease further, offering a sustainable path forward in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Job Creation and Industry Development Brazil’s electric vehicle sector offers substantial economic opportunities. The development, manufacturing, and servicing of EVs and related infrastructure, such as charging stations and battery recycling facilities, can create new jobs and spur industrial growth. This sector’s expansion is poised to attract investments, foster technological innovation, and position

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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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