The integrated environmental management (IEM) approach involves considering all components of tourism management, emphasising the need for coordination and a balance between short- and long-term objectives.

A safari lodge introduces a good environmental practices (GEP) handbook to improve waste management and to reduce water use. The lodge later earns eco-certification. GEP manuals help businesses comply with regulations, reduce risks and improve sustainability performance.

Environmental management is only about controlling the direction and pace of development, with no consideration for optimising resource use or minimising environmental degradation.

In your own words, explain the following two key principles of Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) and why they are important:

In a seminar, a student claims that integrated environmental management (IEM) is a recent global practice that only became significant in the mid-2000s.

Explain the importance of community participation in sustainable

tourism development.

A tour operator sets energy-saving goals, installs solar power, monitors results and reviews progress for further improvements. This process reflects the Deming management cycle and ISO 14001 environmental systems.

Countries like Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa have prioritised sustainable tourism to protect natural resources, to empower communities and to attract eco-conscious travellers. Popular destinations such as the Maasai Mara, Volcanoes National Park and the Garden Route have aligned with global certification systems to enhance their credibility and to reach international markets. One organisation is recognised worldwide for certifying hotels, resorts, attractions and conference centres.

Which organisation is being referred to?

The need to determine

the maximum allowable impact on the environment or one of its components leads

to mass tourism, which is associated with resilience.

The definition of “sustainable development” provided by the World Commission on Environment and Development (1987:40) is widely recognised; it is also the definition adopted in this module.

Which of the following options reflects this definition?