The tourist office said the switch, effective this month, marked a “major step” towards reducing its carbon footprint, and comes as part of a wider effort to champion sustainable tourism.

In the UK specifically, the tourist board is moving to 100% sustainable marketing materials to promote the country.

This includes embracing bamboo straws, coffee cups and pens; using reusable chalkboard name badges; and using recycled paper for maps and brochures distributed at events.

In South Africa, the tourist board will ensure destinations encourage visitors to support local economies through sustainable travel and practices.

Other efforts include upgrading five airports in South Africa to achieve more stringent carbon reduction ambitions, with George, Kimberley and Upington airports embracing solar power.

South African Tourism says the country is a leader in the responsible tourism sector following the Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourisn signed back in 2002, which placed the country’s efforts at the heart of its national tourism policy and strategy.