The UN-Habitat has entered a partnership with the Tourism Finance Corporation aimed at encouraging the tourism sector to use efficient energy methods to save on power.
The partnership will foster eco-tourism and ensure a sustainable development approach in the tourism sector.
The Tourism Finance Corporation intends to see to it that the partnership implemented is effective by promoting energy efficiency in East Africa.
The UN-Habitat Chief, Urban Energy Unit Dr. Vincent Kitio says that Kenya has enough solar power that hotels need to use to contribute to the Kenyan economy and cutting down on high energy costs.
“The key facet of this project is to empower technical staff with tools and measures to consume less energy and properly manage waste,” said Dr. Kitio.
Dr. Kitio was speaking in Nairobi during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Tourism Finance Corporation and the UN-Habitat.
The UN-Habitat Chief emphasized that the cost of energy is rising day by day and therefore it is important for the tourism industry to use solar energy so as to combat harsh effects of climate change and tame green house emissions.
The move also intends to ensure environmental sustainability and building the ecological system internationally.
Stakeholders and investors in the tourism sector have also been called upon to establish joint innovation projects and subsequently apply for funding from Tourism Finance Corporation.