Regenerative Tourism App.
Transforming Tourism for a Better Tomorrow.
Smart Regenerative Tourism (SmaRT) Apps' feasibility study was Co-Funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) through the Innovation Programme for Tourism Recovery (IPTR) [Stream One]. The project was shortlisted for the final round of Stream Two IPTR programme. However, as part of the wider fiscal sustainability programme (budget 2024) of the current government, the decision was made to return the remaining funding to the Treasury and close the IPTR. The Regenerative Tourism (SmaRT) App envisions leading the transformation of tourism in New Zealand by creating a robust platform that integrates regenerative practices into every facet of the travel experience.
SmaRT App Vision and Mission Statements
Vision
SmaRT App Vision
The SmaRT App envisions leading the transformation of tourism in New Zealand by creating a robust platform that integrates regenerative practices into every facet of the travel experience. This vision is crucial as it addresses several pressing issues including:
1) Environmental Degradation
Traditional mass tourism often leads to overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and habitat destruction. The SmaRT App’s focus on conservation helps mitigate these impacts by promoting eco-friendly practices and encouraging tourists to engage in activities that support environmental health.
2) Community Benefit
Mass tourism frequently results in economic benefits that do not trickle down to local communities. The SmaRT App aims to ensure that tourism revenue supports local economies, preserving cultural heritage and promoting social equity.
3) Regenerative Practices
By fostering a culture of regenerative practices, the SmaRT App helps establish long-term practices that protect the environment and support community well-being, ensuring that tourism remains viable for future generations.
Mission
SmaRT App Mission
SmaRT App launch a smart application to develop tailored guides and multimedia content is fundamental to educating and guiding stakeholders towards regenerative tourism. This mission aligns with the MBIE’s focus on regenerative tourism and is critical in several ways:
1) Empowerment through Education
Creating comprehensive guides and courses enables tourism stakeholders to adopt regenerative practices confidently. This educational approach ensures that tourism professionals understand and implement sustainable practices, leading to industry-wide change.
2) Carbon Footprint Reduction
The app’s focus on measuring and reducing carbon emissions is vital in the fight against climate change. By providing tools to track and minimise their carbon footprint, tourists and businesses can make more informed decisions that contribute to decarbonising the tourism sector.
3) Harmonious Interaction
The SmaRT App fosters a harmonious relationship between travellers, tourist host communities and the environment by promoting activities that support conservation efforts. This approach ensures that tourism does not come at the expense of environmental health but rather contributes positively to it leaving.