The first session was moderated by Ardy Wibowo, M.BA as the lecturer at the Department of Business Administration Universitas Diponegoro. The session delivered by Dr. Anna Spenceley as the former chair of IUCN WCP TAPAS Group highlighted 3 main transitions of terminology from Sustainable Tourism, Responsible Tourism, to Regenerative Tourism.
Dr. Anna Spenceley delivered an insightful presentation on the evolving landscape and the shift from sustainable tourism (minimizing negative impacts) to responsible tourism (actively improving communities and destinations) and now towards regenerative tourism, which aims to restore ecosystems and leave a net-positive impact.
Dr. Spenceley illustrated these concepts with real-world examples, such as Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa where the revenue from tourism is reinvested into community projects and conservation efforts, such as anti-poaching programs, habitat restoration, and species reintroduction (for example, black rhino and cheetah). It also works closely with local Zulu communities to support education, healthcare, and livelihood initiatives. Another example is Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) in Tanzania. The eco-lodge on the island is fully solar-powered, uses rainwater harvesting, and applies composting toilets and greywater filtration. Income from tourism is reinvested into conservation management, environmental education for local schools, and training programs for local fishers and communities. Thus, they don’t just minimize harm but actively restores and protects ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods. These stories demonstrate how tourism can evolve into a driver of social and ecological renewal.
Another key theme in her presentation was the rise of “green claims” and the risk of greenwashing in tourism. Dr. Spenceley highlighted upcoming regulations such as the EU Green Claims Directive, which will require businesses to provide independently verified and scientifically backed evidence before marketing themselves as “sustainable” or “regenerative.” This legislation aims to increase transparency and credibility, ensuring that travelers can trust the claims made by tourism operators.
In the discussion, several questions emerged about how regenerative tourism differs from sustainable tourism, she then explained that sustainable models focus on “doing less harm,” while regenerative tourism seeks to restore and improve ecosystems and communities. Furthermore, when she was asked by participants on how travelers can support regenerative tourism, she suggested the importance of making mindful choices such as engaging with community-based tourism experiences, contributing to conservation projects, and selecting travel options that leave a positive impact on both nature and local people.
Through her presentation, Dr. Spenceley highlighted the urgency of moving beyond “business as usual” in tourism. The shift toward regenerative practices requires a change in mindset and action, ensuring that tourism not only sustains but actively nurtures the places and people it touches.