EuroCollege, a Dutch private university of applied sciences, was honoured to participate in the Sigma International Tourism Green Lung initiative supported by SATSA (Southern African Tourism Services Association) through the planting of four indigenous trees at the historic Vergelegen Wine Estate in the Cape Winelands.

The activity formed part of an educational visit to South Africa by 23 EuroCollege students undertaking an international business study tour focused on hospitality, entrepreneurship, and future career opportunities. The tree-planting initiative was facilitated through a collaboration between EuroCollege, Dutch tour operator Pangea Travel, South African destination management company Inspiration Travel & Tours, and partners involved in South Africa’s Tourism & Travel Green Lung sustainability programme.

Vergelegen Wine Estate, one of South Africa’s most renowned wine estates, holds significant Dutch heritage, having been established in 1700 by Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel. Against this historic backdrop, students were afforded the opportunity to make a tangible contribution to environmental sustainability by planting indigenous trees that will form part of a lasting legacy for future generations.

The initiative forms part of South Africa’s Tourism & Travel Green Lung programme, a national sustainability platform designed to support carbon reduction, ecological restoration, and community-linked tourism development through measurable and verified environmental interventions.

While the tree-planting activity was a highlight of the visit, it was the people of South Africa who left the most enduring impression on the students.

Throughout their journey, the group engaged with tourism operators, hospitality businesses, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs. The students were particularly impressed by the number of young entrepreneurs they encountered and the optimism, innovation, and determination they demonstrated.

The energy, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit evident across South Africa made a profound impact on the group. Many students remarked that they sensed something significant emerging within the country: a new generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders actively shaping the future.

“At EuroCollege, we believe that ambition recognises ambition. In South Africa, our students discovered a generation of young entrepreneurs determined to build the future.”

These student-led international study projects form an integral part of the EuroCollege educational philosophy, which encourages students to engage directly with real-world business environments and gain practical experience beyond the classroom.

Previous international destinations have included China, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. South Africa now joins this distinguished list as a destination that has provided exceptional educational value and meaningful exposure to global business and tourism practices.

The visit also highlighted the growing importance of sustainability within the international tourism and hospitality sectors. By participating directly in a verified environmental initiative, students gained first-hand insight into how responsible tourism can create measurable environmental and social benefits while enriching the visitor experience.

Thanks to the warm hospitality and support received from South Africa’s tourism sector, educational institutions, and wider business community, EuroCollege looks forward to strengthening its relationship with South Africa in the years ahead.

As the four indigenous trees planted at Vergelegen take root and flourish, they will serve as a lasting symbol of collaboration, sustainability, and a shared commitment to developing the future leaders of the global tourism industry.

More info: Tourism & Travel Green Lung – Sigma International

Cape Town: Africa Travel Week, built by RX Africa, has released its annual State of the Industry Report. The comprehensive, data-driven report examines the forces transforming travel and tourism across the continent, from aviation access and AI-driven distribution to sustainability compliance, inclusion and the next generation workforce.

The report arrives at a pivotal moment. Africa welcomed 81 million international visitors in 2025 – 8% growth, the fastest of any region globally – and aviation capacity surged 13.7% to 182.4 million departure seats. Yet the headline numbers mask a more fractured reality: Central and Western Africa recorded 0% aviation growth while Eastern Africa surged 24.3%; fewer than 5% of African hospitality properties hold third-party sustainability certification, despite the EU’s greenwashing ban activating in September 2026; and 72% of Gen Z now use AI to plan travel, meaning operators without machine-readable inventory are invisible before the conversation even begins.

“This report explores current themes and trends,” said Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager, WTM Africa & ILTM Africa. “Including trust, AI and travel tech, traveller psychology, sustainability and authenticity.”

Commissioned to Big Ambitions, RX Africa’s content, communications and marketing agency, the report draws on contributions from more than 25 industry leaders, academics, and practitioners across the continent, including environmental expert Dr Louise de Waal, director of the Blood Lions campaign to end commercial captive lion breeding and canned hunting, Judy Kepher Gona, founder and executive director at Sustainable Travel and Tourism Agenda (STTA), and Luckson Zambuko, Founder of the African Youth in Tourism and Hospitality Association. 

“What struck us most when compiling this report was not the scale of the opportunity – that has always been evident – but the specificity of what is now required to capture it,” said Dorine Reinstein, Content Director, Big Ambitions. “The operators and destinations that are winning in 2026 are not the ones with the best product, but the ones with the best proof. Proof of access, proof of trust, proof of sustainability, proof of welcome. That shift– from aspiration to verification – is the defining commercial reality this report addresses.”

The full report, including a ten-point manifesto for African tourism stakeholders, is available at https://soi2026.yop.co.za/ – required reading for every operator, investor, policymaker, and destination marketer with a stake in the future of African tourism.

It was introduced by Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, with a video at the opening ceremony of WTM Africa on Monday, 13 April, and supported by a panel discussion on the Future Stage on Wednesday, 15 April. 

The panel, sponsored by LIFT and moderated by Dorine Reinstein, included David Frost, CEO of SATSA; Judy Kepher Gona, Director of Sustainable Travel & Tourism Africa; Kwakye Donkor, CEO of Africa Tourism Partners; Liesel van Zyl, Head of Positive Impact and Product Development at Go2Africa; and Rashid Toefy, Deputy Director-General for Economic Operations at the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

The full video can be found here: WTM Africa 2026: ATW State of the Industry Report Launch

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors:

About CBISN
CBISN is a leader in market intelligence and capacity-building services for those engaging with the Chinese outbound tourism market. Their partnership with WTM Africa aims to provide African stakeholders with actionable insights and tools to welcome and serve Chinese visitors more effectively.

Now in its 33nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai

ATM takes place from 4 – 7 May 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes Start-Up Competition, Influencers’ Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums.

https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

Next event: 3 to 5 November 2026 at ExCel London

http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and exhibitors.  WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brasil
latinamerica.wtm.com

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2024, WTM Africa facilitated more than 10 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 8% compared to 2023 and welcomed more than 10 thousand visitors (unaudited), 25% more than 2023.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
https://atwconnect.com/

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

As climate pressures intensify and global audiences demand more responsible experiences, Africa’s events industry is reshaping what sustainable events can – and should – look like, and for RX Africa, the business behind events like WTM Africa, ILTM Africa, FAME Week Africa, Comic-Con and Decorex, the future of event sustainability is proudly, unashamedly, and unapologetically African.

“As a continent, we have long embraced resourcefulness and resilience,” says Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa. “But now, sustainability for us means so much more – it’s about driving systemic change in the communities we reach. We need to enable regeneration, not just mitigate harm.”

This is sustainability with African context and African purpose at its core – deeply practical, grounded in lived realities, and shaped by long-standing community relationships. And while it aligns with the direction of the global events industry, what is happening in Africa is driven by local voices, creativity, and priorities.

Regenerative Events: More Than Just Green

While carbon-cutting or waste reduction remain core to sustainable event delivery, RX Africa is helping shape a regenerative model – one that uplifts communities and builds lasting economic opportunity.

A good example is WTM Africa’s Responsible Tourism Awards, where each handcrafted trophy tells a story of circularity. Made by children in partnership with Uthando SA and using recycled corks donated by conservation-driven Painted Wolf Wines, the awards themselves acknowledge Africa’s craft heritage, build local skills, and keep money circulating in community economies.

This community-first approach extends across RX Africa’s 15-year partnerships with local NPOs like Oliver’s Village, which supports more than 600 people daily through education, healthcare, and food access initiatives. Partner organisation 18twenty8 offers university scholarships and mentorship to young women in tourism and PR – deliberately seeding leadership in historically underrepresented spaces.

The Business Case for Local Innovation

The Crafters Nexus, hosted within WTM Africa, gives small-scale artisans a platform to connect with the international travel trade. The results are remarkable: one local business signed a lucrative international contract to design custom bag covers. Others made critical industry connections that would otherwise be out of reach in global supply chains dominated by mass manufacturing.

FAME Week Africa – an annual showcase of Africa’s film, television, animation, music, fashion, and entertainment technology industries – demonstrates similar impact. At the event’s African Fashion Forum Theatre, ethical stylist Tracy-Lee Rosslind’s “Overflow” installation spotlighted the 6,000 kilograms of textile waste discarded every 45 minutes in the Western Cape. Now, she’s taking her mission global, hosting the African Fashion and Arts Awards in Abuja and leading sustainability talks with Nigeria’s next-gen designers.

The result is that African design thinking and creativity are being brought directly into business conversations and trade agreements.

Designing Cleaner Footprints, One Show at a Time

RX Africa contributes to parent company RX Global’s wider commitment to reach net zero by 2040. This work is supported by a unified global framework that provides clear guidance, practical tools, and cross-regional collaboration.

“Our global commitment to net zero is only possible because of the collective action of our teams around the world,” says Helen Sheppard,RX Group Sustainability Director. “We’re working closely across regions to provide the training, tools, and support needed to turn our shared sustainability goals into meaningful progress on the ground.”

The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) – one of the few venues in South Africa to formally sign the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge – is also playing a leading role. As an NZCE signatory, CTICC has committed to reducing event-related emissions in line with global best practice, reinforcing RX Africa’s efforts to host cleaner, lower-impact shows. Their commitment also highlights the importance of strong collaboration across the value chain – from venues and suppliers to organisers and local communities – as stakeholders work together to accelerate sustainable event delivery.

Beyond venue partnerships, event organisers are introducing low-waste initiatives too, including digital-only catalogues, seed-paper badge holders, and recycled-plastic lanyards. At Decorex, there’s growing momentum toward modular, re-usable area builds. The aim? To cut down on construction waste and lengthen the life cycle of design infrastructure across multiple shows. Other simple but effective shifts – like reusing event lanyards, fabric-based signage for registration walls, and eliminating plastic bottles – are already in motion across multiple RX events.

Weaving explains that the new “Events Sustainability Scorecard”, launched in November across the RX portfolio, strengthens this approach by helping teams track and report on the sustainability actions expected for every show.

“More than a checklist, the scorecard serves as a practical decision-making tool, opening early conversations with venues, suppliers, and partners across core focus areas: energy, production, food and beverage, logistics, and travel and accommodation,” says Weaving. “It ensures that sustainability is not an afterthought, but a guided, intentional part of how events are planned and delivered.”

Setting the Standard for 2026

For Weaving, real sustainability is broad and inclusive.

“It’s not just energy efficiency. It’s education, representation, economic access. It’s giving people the tools to build something that lasts long after the event ends,” concludes Weaving.

Sustainability in Africa delivers a practical, contextual, and community-driven model that can’t be borrowed from the Global North. The work is far from over, but Africa’s voice is leading the way.

Table of Contents

JOHANNESBURG – As African businesses navigate the twin pressures of economic growth and climate responsibility, artificial intelligence (AI) is quietly revolutionising how – and why – we travel for work.

In a region where fragmented infrastructure and complex travel logistics often drive up both costs and carbon emissions, AI-powered tools are stepping in to streamline routes, reduce unnecessary trips, and promote virtual alternatives.

That said, let’s be clear: air travel is inherently unsustainable, and AI isn’t a silver bullet either, given the extraordinary amounts of energy it consumes. But if designed with purpose, AI can provide both predictive power and behavioural nudges that help companies make lower-impact choices.

“The old approach was to book travel by convenience or habit,” says Mummy Mafojane, General Manager of FCM. “AI changes that by making sustainability a visible and measurable part of every decision. Greener corporate travel isn’t a distant ideal – it’s a present-day imperative. And AI is the enabler that makes it possible, measurable, and scalable.”

Here are six ways that AI is transforming the way we travel:

1. Personalised Travel Experiences

While corporate travel has always been personalised, AI takes that approach to the next level. Learning from past choices – preferred airlines, hotels, departure times or even seating selection – AI can build smarter, more relevant trips that respect both traveller preferences and organisational sustainability policies.

For Jo Lloyd, Head of Account Management & Consulting at FCM Consulting, the future is about partnership between humans and AI. “The best outcomes happen when technology is doing what it’s best at, like processing huge amounts of information quickly, and people are doing what they’re best at: making decisions, solving complex problems, and delivering care,” she says.

2. Smart Booking Solutions

AI-driven platforms now suggest the most eco-friendly route alternatives, consolidate travel to avoid repeat visits, and prioritise greener travel modes – from low-emission flights to electric car rentals and certified green hotels. By presenting these options front and centre in booking tools, AI encourages meaningful shifts in behaviour without sacrificing convenience.

Still, we have work to do. Sustainability remains low on the agenda for most business travellers – particularly when it comes to hotel bookings. We need intelligent systems that not only make greener options available but actively guide users toward them.

For Mafojane, AI presents a real opportunity to connect the dots across the travel ecosystem, ensuring that travel managers don’t just react to problems but actively predict and prevent them.

3. Automated Expense Management

Manual processes are a thing of the past. AI can now automatically track expenses, match receipts to policy, and integrate with company financial systems in real-time. This reduces errors, saves time for both travellers and finance teams, and ensures compliance with green travel policies by flagging non-compliant bookings.

For UK-based Ian Spearing, Global Travel Manager at Arcadis, it’s these “quiet, unglamorous wins” that matter. “If AI can take away repetitive manual tasks – rebooking, data entry, policy checks – we free up human teams to focus on things that really require judgement,” says Spearing.

This increased efficiency enhances not just operations, but employee wellbeing – an often-overlooked factor in sustainable workplace cultures.

4. Real-Time Travel Assistance

Flight cancelled? Weather disruption? AI tools are already scanning the horizon – literally. AI platforms monitor flight paths, climate patterns, and regional disruptions to proactively provide real-time support and alternative solutions.

Daniel Senyard, SVP of Commercial Platforms and Innovation at FCM, explains:

“We’re seeing AI flag potential disruptions before they happen – for example, recognising a storm pattern that might affect flights and proactively suggesting alternate plans. It’s not just about efficiency – it’s about resilience.”

Empowered with instant rebooking capabilities and route suggestions, travellers face less stress, avoid unnecessary overnight stays, and reduce the environmental impact of last-minute detours.

5. Carbon Footprint Tracking

Sustainable travel isn’t just about reducing travel volume – it’s also about making travel as clean as possible. AI can calculate the exact carbon emissions from each trip, considering the transport mode, air carrier performance, fuel efficiency, and route distance. It then determines the necessary offset and, in advanced systems, facilitates the purchase of carbon credits.

Tools such as FCM Extension – a simple browser plugin – provide enhanced decision-making support by generating notifications at the point of search. These nudges alert travellers to carbon outputs, company policy initiatives, and sustainable travel alternatives.

6. Green Accountability

As ESG reporting becomes a board-level concern, AI plays a vital role in generating seamless, accurate reports tailored to meet investor, customer, or regulatory expectations. These reports help enhance brand reputation, build stakeholder trust, and keep companies accountable on their journey to net zero.

“Sometimes the real return is in things you can’t measure easily,” says Spearing. “Like the trust you build with travellers when they see the company going the extra mile to make their journey smoother.”

Starting Small, Scaling Fast

The good news? “You don’t have to overhaul your entire travel programme overnight,” says Spearing. “Pick one process, like trip approvals or disruption management, and run a pilot. You’ll learn a lot about your data, your workflows, and your tolerance for automation.”

By starting small and proving early wins, organisations can quickly build momentum and foster internal buy-in.

No Longer Business as Usual

The corporate world must understand its travel-related emissions. Suppliers should be chosen not just for cost-efficiency, but for their tangible efforts to address their own carbon footprints. And critically, travellers need to embrace a new philosophy – one where travel is purposeful, not habitual.

“We’ve seen corporate travel programmes get better results when they position AI as a driver of overall business performance,” says Senyard. “If your sales team spends less time stuck in airports and more time with clients, that’s a productivity gain – and AI can play a direct role in making that happen.”

As Mafojane explains, ‘business as usual’ is no longer good enough – we have to innovate, and with the right policies, the right tools, and plenty of education and internal buy-in, a better way of travelling is possible.

**ends**

For more information about FCM Travel call Sonnette Fourie on 081 072 2869 or email sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.

About FCM Travel:

FCM Travel, the flagship corporate travel brand at Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), is the business travel partner of choice for large national, multinational and global corporations. We are an award-winning global corporate travel management company ranking as one of the top five by size around the world. We operate a global network which spans more than 100 countries, employing over 6000 people.

FCM are transforming the business of travel through our empowered and accountable people who deliver 24/7 service and are available either online or offline. Leveraging FCM’s negotiating strength and supplier relationships in conjunction with our tailored business travel programs, our expertise delivers more for our clients where it matters most to them.

Visit us at www.fcmtravel.co.za

Issued by: Big Ambitions

Contact: Lori Cohen

Tel: +27 79 641 4965

Email: Lori@bigambitions.co.za

To help address this gap, Norway, through the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) has provided NOK 50 million (about $4.5 million) to African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) to implement the Supporting Adaptation Capacity Through Increased Parametric Insurance Penetration in Africa (SACPIP-Africa) initiative. The partnership was made official during a signing ceremony in the CARICOM Pavillion at COP29 on 13 November 2024, marking the significant contribution this initiative will have in addressing climate change issues.

By aligning with global frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), the initiative aims to create synergies with existing environmental policies and resilience strategies.

What is SACPIP-Africa?

SACPIP-Africa is part of ARC Ltd.’s mission to expand disaster risk preparedness by strengthening governments’ ability to forecast, assess, and plan for crises. It was designed to equip African nations with the tools, knowledge, and financial support necessary to address the growing impact of climate change.

The initiative leverages parametric insurance to address Africa’s unique vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Unlike traditional insurance, parametric insurance provides pre-agreed payouts based on objective triggers, such as rainfall levels, rather than assessed losses. This ensures rapid disbursement of funds (often within 10 days) allowing countries to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.

“The SACPIP-Africa initiative reflects a deep commitment to building a resilient and self-reliant Africa. By leveraging innovative tools like parametric insurance and developing local expertise, this program will protect livelihoods and ensure sustainable development in the face of climate challenges,” ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu says.

ARC Ltd. implements SACPIP-Africa with the highest standards of transparency and accountability. The program includes robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning mechanisms, as well as regular reporting to stakeholders. Semi-annual performance reviews and annual evaluations will measure progress against key indicators, ensuring that donor contributions deliver maximum impact.

Strengthening economic resilience at scale

SACPIP-Africa will be implemented over the next four years in Cameroon, Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Zambia.

By training government officials, civil society organisations, and local leaders through capacity-building workshops, SACPIP-Africa ensures that disaster risk management knowledge is embedded at the grassroots level. These efforts will focus on building institutional frameworks, establishing risk profiles, and creating contingency plans to ensure effective response mechanisms, which will result in additional coverage of $134 million and an additional 13.4 million vulnerable Africans covered over the next 3 years.

Gender inclusion is an important aspect of this contingency and operational planning and the ARC Group works with partner countries to strengthen women’s participation in disaster risk management. “We do this by actively leveraging our influence to encourage more women to be included in the working groups,” said Ndlovu. ARC also provides training to relevant government departments and country liaisons in gender inclusion and sensitivity.

“Climate change is having a devastating impact on communities in Africa, as we have witnessed this year with the drought affecting several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa,” commented the Norwegian Minister of International Development, Anne Beathe Tvinnereim. “We are excited to be partnering with ARC Ltd. Their work allows more countries in Africa and small-holder farmers to be insured against risks related to drought, flooding, or tropical cyclones.”

She said: “This project will also help countries assess the severity of risks and make sure that those most vulnerable in communities, including women and children, have their livelihoods protected.”

With an emphasis on scalability, SACPIP-Africa builds on ARC Ltd.’s ambitious vision to provide insurance coverage to over 150 million vulnerable Africans annually by 2025, scaling its current footprint of 17 insured countries to a majority of African Union member states. This is projected to deliver an economic multiplier effect, safeguarding agricultural productivity, stabilising local markets, and reducing post-disaster recovery costs.

**Ends**

For more information about The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd), or to arrange an interview, please contact Sonnette at sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.

This publication has been produced with financial support from Norway. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of ARC Ltd. and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the Government of Norway.

About ARC Ltd.

The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) is a financial affiliate of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, a specialised agency of the African Union (AU), an initiative designed to improve current responses to climate-related food security emergencies.

ARC Ltd. is a mutual insurance facility comprised of its members, which have included Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Malawi, the Gambia, Burkina Faso, Chad, Zimbabwe, Togo, Madagascar, and Zambia.

The membership also includes its capital contributors who have provided premium subsidies, including USAID, FCDO, SDC, KFW/BMZ, IFAD, AFDB, WFP and STARTNETWORK.

“Wellness and sustainability often go hand-in-hand, as guests recognise that all efforts to produce seasonal, sustainable menus, reduce plastic, save energy or purify the air at events actually have a direct impact on their health and well-being too,” says Weaving.

In terms of sustainability, Weaving believes that environmental consciousness is moving from being a ‘nice-to-have’ to being part and parcel of today’s events. Common practices include waste reduction (for example, by using digital platforms to share information rather than printing reams of information), using recyclable materials as much as possible, and prioritising energy-efficient technologies. “Environmental credentials are an important part of the venue selection process, and then it’s over to the event management team to make sure we’re implementing eco-conscious practices wherever we can,” says Weaving. “The MICE industry is obviously under the microscope as events do use energy, produce waste and add to carbon emissions. That is why an eco-friendly approach is paramount.”

Llewellyn du Plessis, RX Africa Trade Marketing & Hosted Buyer Manager: Business and Technology, says that wellness remains a key trend. “It’s important because well-rested and comfortable delegates are better engaged and this leads to more meaningful conversations and stronger connections,” says du Plessis, explaining that event planners are increasingly incorporating dedicated wellness zones, healthy food options (including vegetarian, vegan and allergen-free choices), guided meditation and mindfulness sessions, onsite massages, hydration stations, and relaxation areas with ergonomic seating, charging stations and quiet zone into their event programmes and setups.

Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at ILTM Africa, which will be held at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town in April 2025, says the team prioritises wellness by curating multi-sensory experiences designed for both relaxation and engagement.

“Our pop-up exhibitors provide opportunities to connect with their senses through tastings and stunning luxury product activations. Each year, we thoughtfully select a tranquil setting for the show, one that highlights the beauty and luxury of our country while offering visitors and staff the chance to stroll through the gardens and immerse themselves in nature, helping to refresh and reset the senses.”

De Jager, du Plessis and Weaving are also excited by tech developments – and how AI and related tools will shape the MICE industry in 2025 and beyond. A sentiment shared by Reante Naidoo, Buyer & digital Director for Travel, Tourism & Creative Industries at RX Africa who says tech-driven personalisation is transforming attendee experiences.

“As an example, we can tailor attendee experiences through AI-driven matchmaking, custom itineraries and targeted content,” says Naidoo. “This is especially important as today’s attendees are looking for meaningful networking opportunities and relevant content.”  For Naidoo, real-time analytics also give more insight into attendee engagement allowing organisers to fine-tune their event and content delivery on the fly.

In addition, augmented reality (AR) provides dynamic and immersive demonstrations, which is particularly valuable at shows like the Africa Automation Technology Fair (AATF), which is set to take place at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa from 6-8 May 2025.

And what are the RX Africa team seeing more of in the MICE space? Weaving and du Plessis agree that the following trends are gaining traction:

1. Digital ‘twins’ for venues, whereby event organisers create a virtual replica of the event space so attendees can explore and plan their visit ahead of time.
2. Gamification, where games and challenges are incorporated in the event programme to engage attendees and reward participation. For example, hosting a scavenger hunt across exhibitor booths or introducing gamified training workshops.
3. Edutainment, which combines education and entertainment to deliver dynamic content, interactive panels, live demonstrations or themed exhibitions.
4. Micro-experiences, or events within events, that allow organisers to create niche, tailored events for small groups within a much larger expo or event.
5. Wearable tech, where smart badges or bracelets track engagement and facilitate contactless networking, lead capturing and data sharing.

“The MICE industry in 2025 will be marked by its adaptability and foresight, embracing trends that prioritise wellness, accessibility, and innovation,” says Weaving. “As digital solutions integrate more deeply and sustainable practices become the norm, event experiences will become more inclusive, customisable, and rich in content. For stakeholders, these trends offer pathways to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape, ensuring meetings, incentives, conferences and events are meaningful, engaging, and successful.”

** ends **

For more information contact Olivia Gradidge – olivia.gradidge@rxglobal.com

About RX  

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

Fresh industry data reveals the scale of potential benefits. Organisations using green hotels have reduced their carbon footprint by 27% this year whilst spending 17% less on accommodation compared to traditional options, according to the latest HRS corporate travel report. In today’s economic climate, these savings are garnering serious attention.

“What’s encouraging is that sustainability and cost savings are perfectly aligned,” says Rategang Moroke, Operations Manager of Corporate Traveller. “Companies are seeking both environmental responsibility and competitive pricing from their accommodation partners, and the market is responding brilliantly.”

Hotels are embracing sophisticated technology to enhance their green credentials. Major chains are implementing AI-powered energy management systems that optimise heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in real-time. Smart water management systems using sensors detect leaks and monitor usage, while IoT devices in rooms control lighting and temperature based on occupancy. Some properties have introduced digital check-in options to reduce plastic keycard waste, and smart mirrors displaying sustainability information are replacing printed materials.

While load shedding concerns have eased recently, the resilience of green hotels remains a key consideration for corporate travel planners. Properties investing in solar power, water recycling systems, and energy-efficient operations offer peace of mind should power challenges resurface. Some hotels are even converting organic waste into biogas for electricity generation, reducing reliance on traditional power sources.

Price naturally remains a key factor in hotel selection, spurring technological innovations in the corporate travel sector. “We’ve recently launched Hotel Source, which brings all hotel content into one platform for our travel managers,” explains Moroke. “By incorporating inventory from Booking.com, Expedia, GDS systems and more, we ensure companies never miss out on value whilst meeting their sustainability goals.”

Whilst more firms are requesting sustainability reporting, many are still finding their feet with the data. Travel managers are increasingly partnering with travel management companies (TMCs) that offer detailed environmental metrics through reporting tools, helping to track and improve their environmental performance over time.

Moroke suggests several steps for organisations looking to maximise the benefits of green hotels:

• Review current accommodation data to identify opportunities for switching to sustainable properties
• Engage with TMCs to understand available sustainability reporting tools and metrics
• Consider implementing a sustainable hotel policy that balances environmental impact with cost
• Educate travellers about the benefits of choosing green hotels
• Benchmark performance against industry standards and peer companies

“The next phase is helping companies move from measuring to meaningful action,” says Moroke. “When organisations can easily access sustainable options at competitive rates, making environmentally responsible choices becomes natural. It’s about empowering to make better decisions for both their bottom line and the planet.”

**ends**

For more information about Corporate Traveller, or to interview Corporate Traveller South Africa GM Bonnie Smith, call Dorine Reinstein on 083 278 8994 or email dorine@bigambitions.co.za.

About Corporate Traveller

Corporate Traveller is a division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, dedicated to saving businesses across Southern Africa time and money. Corporate Traveller has the benefit of being part of the world’s third-largest travel retailer, leveraging its global negotiating strength. It has access to over 50 of the world’s leading airlines and deals with more than 100 000 hotels around the world to guarantee savings for clients. Corporate Traveller provides clear, consolidated reporting of all its clients’ travel activities, helping them to control travel spend and identify opportunities to save costs.

Issued by:

Big Ambitions

Dorine Reinstein

dorine@bigambitions.co.za

In a bold move underscoring South Africa’s fight against climate change, President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Climate Change Bill into law. Passed on 25 April 2024, this new legislation tightens the reins on greenhouse gas emissions, including those from corporate travel.

Bonnie Smith, GM of Corporate Traveller, offers insight into the Bill’s impact: “This legislation marks a turning point for business travel in South Africa. Companies must now consider their travel practices as part of their broader Environmental, Social, and Governance strategies.”

Understanding the Climate Change Bill

The Climate Change Bill is set to shake up business operations in South Africa. Here’s what companies need to know:

First, the Bill establishes a framework for managing climate change nationwide, with climate forums at provincial and local levels. If your business operates in multiple regions, engaging with these forums could become necessary.

Next, and critically for businesses, the Bill tightens how South Africa tracks and reports greenhouse gas emissions. Companies, especially large ones, will face stricter reporting requirements. The government will use this data to set emission targets across different sectors.

Big emitters will be assigned carbon budgets—essentially caps on how much greenhouse gas they can release. This could directly impact operations, including travel practices.

In short, businesses need to start thinking about their carbon footprint now. Evaluate every aspect of your operations, including business travel, and look for ways to cut emissions. Those who act early to go green may gain a competitive edge as these new regulations take hold.

Smith stresses that business trips aren’t going away—they’re just becoming smarter and more sustainable. “We’re witnessing a paradigm shift,” she says. “Companies are now asking not only about travel costs but also about its environmental impact. They want to know how to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising business goals.”

How travel management companies are adapting

As businesses navigate these new regulations, Travel Management Companies (TMCs) are stepping up to meet evolving client needs. “We’re no longer just booking flights and hotels,” says Smith. “TMCs are now strategic partners, helping companies fine-tune their travel plans to cut emissions and stay compliant with the new laws.”

TMCs are rolling out a range of tools and services to promote sustainable travel. For instance, FCM has introduced carbon reporting, enabling companies to track their travel-related carbon footprint. This kind of transparency is vital for businesses aiming to manage their environmental impact.

“These reports give a detailed look at the emissions generated by corporate travel, tracking everything from flights to accommodations. With this data, companies can pinpoint where they can cut back on emissions. It helps businesses make smarter travel decisions, set and track sustainability goals, and align with CSR initiatives,” says Smith.

TMCs are also aiding clients by identifying and promoting greener travel options, such as lower-emission transportation and eco-friendly accommodations. “By clearly presenting these choices during the booking process, we empower travellers to make informed decisions,” Smith notes.

Another key area of support is carbon offsetting. While offsetting doesn’t directly cut emissions, it’s a valuable piece of a broader strategy to manage travel-related carbon footprints.

“We’ve partnered with South Pole, a leading expert in climate action, to offer carbon offsetting to our clients,” explains Smith. “We calculate travel emissions, then clients can choose from 12 global projects to offset their impact. These range from forest conservation to renewable energy initiatives. It’s a straightforward way for companies to support environmental projects and meet their sustainability goals, while still conducting necessary business travel.”

Perhaps the most impactful support TMCs provide is in policy development. “We’re helping companies draft travel policies that align with the new regulations,” Smith explains. “This could mean setting criteria for when travel is necessary, prioritising lower-emission options, or incorporating carbon budgets into travel planning.”

The business case for sustainable travel

While the new regulations might seem overwhelming, there’s a silver lining for businesses. “Sustainable travel practices often lead to cost savings,” Smith points out. “By optimising travel routes, cutting unnecessary trips, and choosing more efficient transportation, companies can reduce both their carbon footprint and travel expenses.”

Additionally, adopting sustainable travel can boost a company’s reputation, opening doors to new opportunities in an increasingly eco-conscious market. This aligns perfectly with the Bill’s goal of capitalising on the global shift towards a green economy.

However, the Bill’s success hinges on overcoming significant challenges. The government will need to implement strong enforcement mechanisms, including meaningful penalties for companies that exceed their carbon budgets.

The era of unrestricted business travel with little regard for environmental impact is over. What will emerge instead is a more thoughtful, efficient, and sustainable approach to corporate travel.

“This law is just the start,” Smith concludes. “We anticipate more regulations and incentives promoting sustainable business practices in the coming years. Companies that adapt now will be ahead of the curve.”

**ends**

For more information about Corporate Traveller, or to interview Corporate Traveller South Africa GM Bonnie Smith, call Dorine Reinstein on 083 278 8994 or email dorine@bigambitions.co.za.

About Corporate Traveller

Corporate Traveller is a division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, dedicated to saving businesses across Southern Africa time and money. Corporate Traveller has the benefit of being part of the world’s third-largest travel retailer, leveraging its global negotiating strength. It has access to over 50 of the world’s leading airlines and deals with more than 100 000 hotels around the world to guarantee savings for clients. Corporate Traveller provides clear, consolidated reporting of all its clients’ travel activities, helping them to control travel spend and identify opportunities to save costs.

Issued by:

Big Ambitions

Dorine Reinstein

dorine@bigambitions.co.za

RX Africa, a key player in the South African events sector, is among those recognising the need for change.

The Paradox of Female Representation

While women dominate numerically, their presence in leadership roles tells a different story. Only 16% of women hold director positions compared to 32% of men, and at the executive level, a mere 17% are women. This stark contrast raises questions about the industry’s structure and the barriers women face in climbing the corporate ladder.

Carol Weaving, RX Africa Managing Director, offers insight into this paradox: “Female event planners often bring a deeper understanding of people guided by their sensitivity and authenticity. Their innate ability to offer a more nuanced approach resonates deeply with attendees and participants.” Yet, she also notes, “Women often face stereotypes that question their ability to effectively lead and manage events due to gender bias.”

This juxtaposition highlights an issue: while women’s skills are valued in execution, they seem to be overlooked in leadership considerations. The reasons for this discrepancy are multifaceted, ranging from ingrained biases to structural barriers.

However, there’s a silver lining. Many companies recognise this disparity and are taking active steps to address it. At RX Africa, says Weaving, various incentives are consistently run to recognise the work of their teams. Regular networking events celebrate colleagues’ achievements, promote staff abilities regardless of gender, and maintain a non-discriminatory environment. Additionally, ongoing compulsory training, alongside optional sessions, ensures equality is an integral part of the business. This gradual shift is helping to build a pipeline of female talent ready to step into senior roles.

For the Decorex Africa team, which is almost entirely female, advocating for these women is essential for nurturing diversity, challenging stereotypes, driving innovation, achieving economic growth, promoting social equity, and reflecting the rich cultural fabric of the nation. “Our country’s rich cultural diversity should be reflected in its design industry, and championing women ensures this is accurately and fully represented,” comments Bielle Bellingham, Decorex Africa Executive Creative Director. “Often, women design with a focus on community and social impact, leading to projects that benefit society as a whole. By supporting their work, we foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry.”

Balancing Act of the “Superwoman Syndrome”

The demands of the events industry can be particularly challenging for women trying to balance career ambitions with personal life. Esther Mpofu, Sales Executive at FAME Week Africa, describes this struggle: “As women, we often grapple with the ‘Superwoman Syndrome,’ balancing work, family responsibilities, and travel demands.”

This balancing act is further complicated by industry-specific challenges. Mpofu points out that nighttime networking, essential for career progression, can pose safety concerns for women. Such realities force many women to make difficult choices between career advancement and personal safety or family responsibilities.

Diverse Perspectives on Industry Dynamics

Not all women in the industry view their experiences through the same lens. Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager at Africa Travel Week, sees women’s collaborative nature as an asset: “Women have a natural motherly nature to the way in which they work. Collaboration and inclusivity come naturally to them.”

However, this perspective, while positive, could inadvertently reinforce stereotypes that pigeonhole women into specific roles or expectations. It’s crucial to recognise that women’s approaches to work are as diverse as women themselves, she says.

This diversity of perspectives and leadership styles is increasingly seen as a strength in the industry. Companies that embrace a range of leadership styles often report higher innovation and better problem-solving capabilities.

Travel: Empowerment vs. Additional Burden

Travel within the events industry offers both empowerment and challenges for women. Reante Naidoo, Buyer & Digital Director, RX Africa, views travel as a liberating experience that fuels personal and professional growth. She states, “Travel is an incredibly liberating experience for a woman…from planning to paying to arriving and soaking up all these new possibilities a new place has to offer – the entire experience is full of discovery and empowerment.”

Similarly, Penny Fraser, Sales & Partnerships Director – Travel, Tourism & Creative Portfolios, (MipAfrica & FAME), notes, “Travel inspires women professionally by exposing them to new skills, cultural understanding, and innovative thinking, sparking problem-solving and creativity.”

However, both acknowledge the duality of this empowerment. While travel can open doors for career advancement and economic opportunities through community-based initiatives and supporting women-owned businesses, it also exacerbates work-life balance struggles. To mitigate this, some companies offer ‘travel budgets’ allowing employees to bring family members on longer trips, recognising the importance of supporting employees’ lives outside of work.

Sustainability: A New Frontier for Female Leadership

Sustainable event practices are emerging as an area where women are taking the lead. Gradidge notes, “As natural nurturers, women approach projects uniquely. We tend to prioritise sustainable and ethical tourism practices in the workplace.”

This trend offers new avenues for women to showcase leadership skills and drive industry innovation. The focus on sustainability aligns well with growing market demands and provides opportunities for women to shape the future of the industry.

While it’s important to avoid reinforcing stereotypes about women’s ‘nurturing’ nature, the leadership in sustainability demonstrates how women are carving out new niches and redefining industry standards.

For the Decorex Africa team, which is predominantly female, advocating for women is essential to nurturing diversity and driving innovation. “Our country’s diverse culture should be represented in its design industry, and championing women ensures this,” says Bielle Bellingham, Decorex Africa Executive Creative Director. “Women often design with a focus on community and social impact, leading to projects that benefit society as a whole. By supporting their work, we foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry.”

“We’re seeing women lead the charge in creating more sustainable and collaborative events,” says Bellingham. “Their unique perspectives and approaches are reshaping how we think about event planning and execution.”

Challenges and Opportunities

The future of the events industry holds great promise, especially as it embraces the full potential of its diverse workforce. Mpofu envisions a significant shift: “I see more women in C-suite roles, thriving as leaders in what has been a male-dominated industry. Gender equality policies and a supportive workplace culture are crucial.”

Mpofu also highlights the importance of amplifying women’s voices: “It’s essential to ensure women’s perspectives are validated by including them in event programmes and discussions. I hope to see more diverse stories, particularly those by and about women, gaining prominence in TV and film.”

The combined efforts of trailblazers like these women and innovative organisations like RX Africa are setting the stage for an events industry shift. As more women ascend to leadership roles and diverse voices gain prominence, the future looks not just inclusive but dynamic.

** ends **

For more information contact Olivia Gradidge – olivia.gradidge@rxglobal.com

About RX  

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) (the “Company”), a leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, recently published its 2023 “Sail & Sustain” Report, which details the Company’s progress in its global sustainability programme, emphasising the Company’s dedication to driving positive environmental and societal impact. This effort is a cornerstone of the recently unveiled “Charting the Course” strategy, guiding the Company’s mission for guests to “Vacation Better, Experience More.”

“Sustainability is at the core of our ‘Charting the Course’ strategy, which is built on four key pillars: people, product, platform, and performance, all deeply rooted in the foundation of our Sail & Sustain programme. We understand that the success of our business is inextricably linked to the health of our planet and communities, and that’s why we are dedicated to holistically integrating sustainability into our business strategy,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “Our commitment to sustainability drives us to maintain high standards of operational excellence, achieve results responsibly, and create lasting value for our business and stakeholders.”

The 2023 Sail & Sustain Report highlights key advancements and commitments across the five pillars of Sail & Sustain: Reducing Environmental Impact, Sailing Safely, Strengthening Our Communities, Empowering People, and Operating with Integrity and Accountability.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has received recognitions for its advancements through the “Sail & Sustain” programme, earning accolades such as the ESG Leader Gold Award at the 2024 ESG Shipping Awards, as well as being listed in Forbes’s Best Employer Lists in 2023 and 2024.

Key highlights from the 2023 Report under each pillar:

Reducing Environmental Impact:

• Active Steps Toward Climate Action: In 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings introduced short- and near-term GHG intensity reduction targets to guide its path toward net zero by 2050. The net zero ambition applies to shipboard and shoreside operations (Scopes 1 & 2) and the value chain (Scope 3) including supply chain, well-to-wake fuel emissions, business travel, and more. Short- and near-term targets include reducing GHG intensity[1] by 10% by 2026 and 25% by 2030, compared with a 2019 baseline.
• Expanding Shore Power Capabilities: By the end of 2023, the Company achieved its 2024 target of equipping 50% of the fleet with shore power technology and remains on track to equip ~70% by 2025.
• Exploring Alternative Fuels: In 2023, we achieved our goal to test 20% of the fleet with a biodiesel blend by expanding tests to four ships throughout the year. Our new target is for 40% of the fleet to test biodiesel by 2024.
• Boosting Onboard Water Production: In 2023, the Company consumed ~7.6 million cubic meters of fresh water on board, with ~89% produced on board through evaporators and reverse osmosis plants, reducing the need to bunker fresh water. The target is to reduce bunkering by 4% by 2025, compared with 2019.
• Improving Waste Management: The Company is committed to reducing onboard waste, successfully recycling, incinerating, or donating ~48% of total ship waste in 2023 through innovative technologies, staff training, and stringent recycling programmes.
• Enhancing Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting: Annually, the Company’s Scope 1, Scope 2, and relevant Scope 3 emissions are measured, estimated, and independently verified. Since 2019, emissions data and other climate-related information have been disclosed to the CDP, with the most recent submission earning a climate change score of “B,” higher than the Marine Transport Sector, North America, and global averages.
• Sourcing Responsibly: In 2023, supplier diversity efforts allowed more than $635 million to be spent with small businesses and businesses with minority, veteran, or economically disadvantaged qualifications.

Sailing Safely:

• Strengthening Health and Safety Oversight: The Health Safety Environment & Security Committee oversees the implementation of established standards for safe ship operations, pollution prevention, and security.
• Maintaining Robust Public Health Protocols: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings operates a comprehensive public health programme with a 24/7/365 compliance culture, including external and internal public health professionals who regularly visit each ship.
• Providing Excellent Medical Care: Each ship is equipped with a state-of-the-art medical center staffed by highly qualified doctors and nurses, providing high-quality care for guests and crew.

Strengthening Our Communities:

• Committing to Charitable Giving: In 2023, the Company gave nearly $1.6 million in cash, cruise, and other in-kind donations to various causes. This includes significant contributions to disaster relief efforts, such as for the wildfires in Maui, and support for local communities.
• Recognising Educators through the Giving Joy Programme: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Giving Joy Programme honored 20 educators with a free weeklong cruise for their dedication to education and expanded the programme to provide discounts and onboard credits for teachers.
• Supporting Military Families: The Norwegian Military Appreciation Programme extends exclusive cruise fare discounts to military members, veterans, and their spouses, with over 220,000 registered since the programme’s launch in 2022.
• Supporting Renewable Energy Projects: We successfully purchased 3 million carbon offsets, contributing to 16 projects globally. The offsets not only support our decarbonisation journey but invest in cleaner energy sources and local job creation in these communities.

Empowering People:

• Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The Company launched a Corporate Leadership Diversity Initiative to reinforce inclusive hiring practices. In 2023, of the new hires and promotions in shoreside positions, 51% and 62%, respectively, were women. Additionally, the Company supports five Team Member Resource Groups (TMRGs) to connect and support employees.
• Enhancing Employee Benefits: Benefits include fully paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave, and family planning assistance for full-time U.S. shoreside team members. In 2023, the Company’s team member cruise benefit programme was revamped to include new deeply discounted rates at Norwegian Cruise Line and interline rates at Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Operating with Integrity and Accountability:

• Maintaining Diverse Board Composition: 50% of the Board of Directors’ seats are held by women and/or underrepresented minorities.
• Upholding Ethical Conduct: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings emphasises conducting business legally and ethically, requiring all team members, executives, and directors to adhere to the Code of Ethical Business Conduct at all times.

[1] GHG intensity is measured by MTCO₂e on a per Capacity Day basis. The short- and near-term targets cover the Company’s emissions from its fleet of ships, islands and facilities (Scopes 1 & 2) as well as upstream fuel- and energy-related activities, including well-to-tank emissions (portion of Scope 3). Capacity Days is defined as berths available for sale multiplied by the number of cruise days for the period for ships in service.