Egypt is strengthening its position as a sustainable tourist destination globally by adopting green practices, clean energy, and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. According to the Information and Decision Support Center of the Council of Ministers, Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada are emerging as role models for the transition to green tourism. The center highlighted the details of green tourism in Egypt, showcasing the country's efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
Sharm El-Sheikh has made notable progress in green tourism, with over 100 eco-friendly hotels and 55 megawatts of renewable energy capacity. The city has reduced its electricity consumption by 30% in hotels and has a 42-kilometer-square area for the "Green Sharm" project, which aims to preserve the natural environment. Additionally, Sharm El-Sheikh has implemented measures such as banning plastic bags, operating electric buses, and installing over 1,826 solar-powered streetlights.
The efforts in Sharm El-Sheikh have resulted in significant environmental benefits, including a reduction of 85.1 thousand tons in greenhouse gas emissions. The city continues to promote sustainable practices, and its example is being followed by other tourist destinations in Egypt. The Information and Decision Support Center emphasized that these initiatives demonstrate Egypt's commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
Hurghada is also making significant strides in green tourism, with over 41% of its hotel facilities applying green practices and over 30% of diving centers meeting environmental sustainability standards. In 2019, the Egyptian government launched the presidential initiative "Prepare for Green," which aims to promote sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Egypt has also made progress in protecting its natural reserves, with the inclusion of Ras Mohammed and Wadi El-Hitan in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Green List. This recognition highlights Egypt's efforts to conserve its unique biodiversity and natural heritage.
The Egyptian government has collaborated with international organizations, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to promote sustainable tourism practices. In 2024, an agreement was signed for the "Green Hurghada" project, which aims to develop sustainable tourism in the region.
The transition to green tourism in Egypt is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable development and reduce the country's environmental impact. With Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada leading the way, Egypt is poised to become a model for sustainable tourism in the region. The country's efforts to balance economic growth with environmental conservation are expected to have a positive impact on its tourism industry and the environment.
Key points
- Egypt is promoting sustainable tourism practices in cities like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada.
- The country has made significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting green practices.
- Egypt's efforts to conserve its natural reserves and promote sustainable development have been recognized internationally.
