Tswalu Kalahari Reserve achieves The Long Run’s Global Ecosphere Retreat® status
Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa:Tswalu is proud to announce that it has been awarded Global Ecosphere Retreat (GER) status by The Long Run, achieving the organisation’s most advanced sustainability standard. Since becoming a fellow member of The Long Run in 2020, Tswalu has been dedicated to accelerating its positive impact and its commitment to sustainability best practices.
Following the exciting announcement at The Long Run’s annual meeting, which was hosted this year on the reserve, Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Executive Director of The Long Run, commented: “Achieving GER certification is a critical milestone in Tswalu’s sustainability journey. Tswalu’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and research to protect the region's most endangered species is truly inspiring and vital for preserving this important biodiversity for future generations. Well done to everyone involved!”
GER recognition is earned rather than granted, following a rigorous assessment process. Tswalu is one of only 12 properties worldwide to have met the standards set by The Long Run’s comprehensive audit, underwritten by Preferred by Nature and endorsed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and Travelyst. As a Global Ecosphere Retreat, Tswalu will continue to inspire, learn and collaborate as part of a community of like-minded properties and travel partners harnessing tourism as a force for good.
Much more than a compliance assessment, GER status is a vehicle to support Tswalu’s journey of continuous improvement, not only mitigating negative environmental impact but positively impacting the planet's and people's well-being. GER status is granted for six years, which includes a compulsory review after three years to ensure compliance.
“Applying for GER accreditation has helped build momentum, laid new foundations and changed the mindset of the entire Tswalu community. The influence of this conscious, disciplined approach to sustainability will be felt for generations to come,” commented LW van der Merwe, Property Operations Manager on the reserve.
