Pledging to help the Tunisian tourism industry become more sustainable, the Hammamet charter has set out a number of goals.

These include stopping the use of single-use plastic cups and cutlery by March 2020; recycling more; encouraging hotels to achieve Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification by December 2020; and giving regional artisans more opportunities to sell to guests, therefore supporting the local economy. 

It was developed in partnership with the municipality of Hammamet, the Ministry of Tourism, Abta, Tui, Tunisia’s waste management agency Anged, and the Tunisian Hotel Federation.

“This will not only appeal to British tourists but also provide economic benefits for Tunisian businesses,” said Louise de Sousa, UK ambassador to Tunisia, following the signing.

“The reduction of plastic waste is a crucial element of the UK government’s work to protect the world’s oceans and ensure we leave a cleaner planet to the next generation.”

According to the WWF, nearly 600,000 tonnes of plastic is dumped into the Mediterranean Sea every year. 

The British Embassy in Tunisia said this costs the country’s economy $20 million because of the impact on tourism, fishing and navigation. 

Clare Jenkinson, senior destinations and sustainability manager for Abta, added: “This charter to improve waste management, reduce single-use plastics and support the local economy in Tunisian tourist destinations is an excellent example of what can be achieved by working together and setting commitments.”