CapeNature announced the launch of a new podcast and video series, Green Noise, for World Tourism Day, on Friday September 27.

In a statement, Cape Nature said the series aims to create a bold and impactful platform to explore the intersection of nature, conservation, and tourism, celebrating the rich biodiversity of the Western Cape while fostering critical conversations about sustainability, ecotourism, and community empowerment.

MEC of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell said the Western Cape was blessed with a unique and spectacular biodiversity.

“As our understanding of the connectedness between human wellbeing and the environment deepens, it highlights the importance of protecting and nurturing our natural environment and ecological infrastructure,” said Mr Bredell.

“As such, I fully support this initiative from CapeNature, as it will help to add our voice to the global voice advocating for more and stronger environmental protection.”

The first episode, Tourism & Peace, aligns with this year’s World Tourism Day theme, Tourism and Peace – 30 Years of Connecting People to Places and Cultures.

This global theme by The United Nations’ World Tourism Organisation’s (UNWTO) International Tourism Month emphasises the role of tourism in fostering international understanding, reconciliation, and peace, particularly within communities historically affected by division and exclusion.

The debut episode features Edith Henn, stakeholder and Access Manager at CapeNature, and Jacques Stoltz, Director of Tourism at the Western Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

MEC of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said CapeNature’s visitor numbers had grown by 49% since the Covid-19 pandemic, demonstrating the increasing demand for nature-based experiences.

“The creation of a platform like Green Noise, which fosters meaningful dialogues and discussions, is expected to further drive this growth, particularly by attracting international tourists and enhancing our partnerships with global travel networks. This initiative aligns with our vision of positioning the Western Cape as a premier destination for sustainable tourism, contributing significantly to both economic development and community empowerment.”

Filmed across some of CapeNature’s most iconic reserves, including the beautiful Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Green Noise will feature conversations with key stakeholders, conservationists, and tourism experts.

Each episode will offer listeners and viewers a chance to connect with the natural world and gain insights into the efforts to conserve unique landscapes in the Western Cape.

“Green Noise will amplify the voices of nature and those who work tirelessly to protect it. This platform will allow us to elevate not just environmental issues, but also about the positive impact of tourism, conservation, and community engagement,” said Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature.

“Through this series, we aim to bring the stories of our land, people, and biodiversity to life in a meaningful and lasting way.”

The podcast will also highlight CapeNature’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its role in empowering local communities by providing jobs, supporting small businesses, and preserving cultural heritage.

For more information, visit www.capenature.co.za/greennoise; to listen to the podcast visit green-noise.podbean.com/. or watch an episode on YouTube under the title, Episode 1: Nurturing Nature, Nurturing Communities.