Faculty of Management Sciences
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Item The nature and extent of sustainable water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe(2021-01) Ushamba, Kudzai Norman; Sucheran, ReshmaInternational tourism has grown to become one of the largest economic sectors in the world. The growth of tourism is not merely taking place in the so-called developed economies, but also in developing economies. In Africa, the growth of tourism has led to the proliferation of many forms of accommodation and lodging facilities. With a significant number of African nations facing fresh-water problems, water stress has now become a challenge in most destinations. The accommodation sector of the tourism industry has been identified as one of the biggest consumers of water through its various activities and facilities. Tourism, a major fiscus contributor is crucial to the economy of Zimbabwe hence its sustainability is vital especially during this time when world is grappling climate change. The last two or more decades have witnessed the majority of Zimbabwean citizens facing fresh water supply problems, especially in cities and towns which are hotspots for tourism. This study examined the nature and extent of water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study examined the level of water use in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe, and the extent to which water conservation practices are currently being undertaken by this sector. The study further examined challenges facing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. A ‘mixed method’ research approach was used in this study. Questionnaires were administered to managers of 203 accommodation facilities in the country. Expert views were sort from key stakeholders whose organisations, regulations and policies affect the tourism industry. The study found that accommodation establishments in Zimbabwe have been reactive to climate change induced water stress and have been applying several water-conservation measures. The study also found that there is non-enforcement of regulations on government policies and lack of proper awareness as to the monetary benefits of practicing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study concludes that without proper planning, communication, and enforcement of regulations large amounts of fresh water will continue to be wasted to the deprivation of communities.Item Eco-labels in the tourism sector in South Africa : benefits and barriers(AFRICAJOURNALS, 2020-01-01) Sucheran, Reshma; Arulappan, LucindaThe considerable increase in tourism activities over the years equates to notable economic and social benefits. Patent as one of the most emergent sectors of the global economy, the degree and prospect of tourism growth, however, raises concerns on its negative environmental and social impacts. Conserving these environments is of utmost importance as damage to environmental quality can eventually destroy the tourism industry. The launch of eco-labels to environmentally vulnerable tourism organizations and destinations is presently being implemented in many countries in an effort to protect the natural and socio-cultural resources of a destination. A number of eco-labels exist within the tourism industry in South Africa. These eco-labels are anticipated to have a profound effect on the contribution towards sustainable tourism within the country as these are considered to be highly compatible with sustainable tourism initiatives. This study provides an overview of eco-labels in South Africa and examines the benefits and barriers associated with eco-label certification. A quantitative research approach was used, and the data was collected utilizing an online questionnaire. A census sampling approach was used to target 104 tourism businesses in South Africa that have eco-label certification. The key eco-labels targeted in the study were the Blue Flag, Fair Trade in Tourism, Heritage Environmental Management Company, and GreenLine - certified by Heritage. The study revealed that tourism businesses in South Africa do experience several benefits through eco-label certification. However, businesses also encounter many barriers with eco-label certification in terms of high costs associated with being certified, the lack of general public awareness regarding eco-labels and the absence of government support. Consequently, cost reduction, promotion of public awareness as well as government support are the main areas of improvement suggested by tourism establishments with regards to eco-labels.