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Remarkable success of UNDP-backed Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Egypt’s Tourism project
Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Egypt Alessandro Fracassetti said the Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Egypt’s Tourism project has achieved remarkable successes over the past four years.
This four-year initiative was funded by the Global Environment Facility and Egypt’s Ministry of Environment.
The project – implemented by UNDP in partnership with national and local authorities – prepared the National Sustainable Tourism Strategy, now adopted by the Ministry of Tourism.
The project advocated for policy, legal, and institutional frameworks to support ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.
This led to key decisions like implementing a permit system for activities in protected areas, banning plastic bags in Sharm El Sheikh, and establishing a Nature-based Tourism Committee under the Egyptian Tourism Federation.
Achievements in Sustainable Tourism Practices:
“We developed ecolodge establishment guidelines with the Tourism Development Authority. Now, the Ministry of Tourism can issue licenses to ecolodges for the first time,” Fracassetti said.
“We supported the Green Star program, doubling the number of certified hotels,” he added.
“Our Green Fins initiative also doubled the number of certified diving centers, now over 40,” he highlighted.
“We launched the first-ever Egyptian Sustainable Tourism Portal, providing information on sustainability standards and resource efficiency in tourism,” he added.
Achievements in Protected Areas, Ecotourism, and Local Communities:
Fracassetti said “We improved management in protected areas by developing management and visitor plans for four protected areas.”
He added that “We launched ‘ECO EGYPT,’ the first nationwide ecotourism awareness and protected area promotion campaign. We also supported sustainable livelihoods for local communities through training and technical support.”
He noted that local communities played a crucial role in this project. One standout example is the Tribal Talk Initiative.
“During a field visit, I met many local leaders who shared how our training and resources empowered their community. This encounter showed the power of grassroots involvement, he said.
“I am pleased to announce that the Tribal Talk documentary will be screened at the World Urban Forum in October, showcasing some of these incredible stories,” he noted.
“As we celebrate our achievements, we must recognize that our work is not done,” he added.
“To keep the momentum, we must continue investing in capacity-building, policy implementation, and partnerships,” he said.
“Education, awareness, and innovation are key,” he asserted, adding that the sustainability of this project’s achievements is crucial for future success.
Mainstreaming biodiversity into tourism is essential for sustainable development and environmental conservation, he said.
“By continuing to integrate biodiversity into tourism policies and practices, we can protect ecosystems, preserve natural landscapes, and support local livelihoods,” he said.
“This will ensure that Egypt’s natural wonders remain resilient and accessible for future generations,” the UNDP official said.
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