Ecolabelling, certification and accreditation : elements of a possible model for the ecotourism industry in southern and eastern Africa
Date
2004-03
Authors
Pina, Ralph Felix
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
The paper examines the evolution of ecolabelling/certification in tourism in the
context of the evolution of the concepts of sustainable development and tourism,
certification’s definitions, motivations, international practices and challenges, and
focuses on its intended function as a voluntary market mechanism. Parallels are drawn
with the African experience and consideration is given to the particular problems of
certification in Africa as a member of the Third World. Evidence is examined,
including a local tourist survey that points to certification’s ineffectiveness as a means
to influence consumer choice, at least in its current form as a voluntary, selfregulatory
tool. An attempt is also made to disprove its effectiveness as a source of
competitive advantage for tourism companies by considering it within the framework
of competitive strategy theory. It is concluded that certification is a poor market
mechanism. Consequently, elements of a model for the effective use of ecolabelling
as a tool in a suite of sustainability tools in tourism in Africa, are proposed.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Geography and Environmental Studies))--University of Stellenbosch, 2004.
Keywords
Eco-labeling -- South Africa, Ecotourism -- South Africa, Dissertations -- Geography and environmental studies, Theses -- Geography and environmental studies