A Living Legacy

The Green Lung The Green Lung addresses how travel and tourism can make a positive contribution to restoring the destinations and natural environments on which the industry depends. A Collaboration Launched at Vergelegen in February 2026 by Sigma International, in partnership with ASATA, SATSA (Southern African Tourism Services Association) and the TBCSA (Tourism Business Council of South Africa), the initiative recognises that sustainability requires a collaborative approach, bringing together tourism businesses, conservation partners and local communities. How it Works Businesses sponsor indigenous trees which are planted at one of the Green Lung restoration sites around the country, and the investment is channelled into carefully selected tourism SMMEs through an Enterprise and Supplier Development framework, creating both environmental and economic value. Vergelegen Wine Estate The choice of Vergelegen as the founding site, and the venue for ASATA’s 70th celebration, was particularly significant. With their long-standing commitment to conservation, land rehabilitation and biodiversity restoration, the estate provides a powerful example of how tourism and environmental stewardship can work together. Long-Term Vision The long-term vision is to establish a national network of Green Lung sites across South Africa, creating measurable environmental, social and economic impact on a national level. As the network grows, so too will its ability to strengthen destinations, support communities and contribute to a more resilient tourism and travel sector.