The Role of B-Corp’s in the Development of Tourism Businesses in South Africa

Abstract

This paper explores the significance of the B-Corp certification to the development of tourism businesses in South Africa. The paper draws on two case examples of B-Corp’s that already operate in South Africa, that of Intrepid Travel, the world’s largest travel B-Corp, and Nawiri Group, the first B-Corp in Sub-Saharan Africa. Background is provided on the impact of climate change on the South African tourism industry, and the impact that B-Corp’s can and do have. The role of B-Corp certification on climate change resilience, adaptation and governance is explored in relation to both Intrepid and Nawiri, as exemplars to other tourism organisations in the region. The paper is based on reported practices rather than purely theoretical insights. However, analysis of B-Corp Disclosure Reports offers insights to their B-Corp status and progress that will assist tourism students learning about the role of B-Corps and B-Tourism, and for tourism organisations to get a more detailed perspective on the processes involved.