UN-backed waste management programme launches for Boa Vista tourism
A United Nations‑supported programme to boost circular economy and manage waste on Boa Vista has been announced. The initiative is slated to begin feasibility studies in 2027 and targets hotels, tour operators and local waste collectors on the island. It aims to reduce plastic litter, improve recycling and create jobs while protecting the beaches that draw European tourists.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A UN‑backed circular‑economy programme will address waste on Boa Vista
- Timing
- Feasibility studies start in 2027 with pilot projects thereafter
- Who is affected
- Hotels, tour operators and waste‑handling workers on Boa Vista
The details
- Announced by
- United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cabo Verde
- New rule
- The Joint SDG Fund programme will introduce waste‑reduction measures, refillable water systems, glass‑return schemes and support for local recycling entrepreneurs, aiming to mobilise about $20 million in financing.
Programme Overview
The United Nations‑supported initiative, titled Building Public‑Private Partnerships to Boost Circular Economy, brings together the Government of Cabo Verde, the Municipality of Boa Vista, UNIDO, UNEP and UN‑Habitat. Its purpose is to turn the island’s mounting waste problem into an economic opportunity and to protect the beaches that attract roughly 300,000 tourists each year.
- Targeted waste volume: more than one kilogram per guest night from the eight largest hotels
- Current litter: over two tons per kilometre of coastline, about two‑thirds plastic
Proposed Measures
Key actions include reducing food waste, replacing disposable hotel amenities, installing refillable water stations, establishing glass‑return systems and linking local recycling entrepreneurs with tourism businesses. The programme also seeks to improve conditions for informal waste collectors and create jobs for women and young people.
- Introduce refillable water bottles in all resorts
- Create a network for collecting and re‑using glass containers
- Support local entrepreneurs with training and market access
Implementation Timeline
Validated studies, financial models and pilot projects are expected in 2027. Following successful pilots, infrastructure investment and full‑scale implementation will roll out, contingent on securing the projected $20 million in financing through public‑private partnerships.
- 2027: feasibility studies and pilot design
- Post‑2027: infrastructure build‑out and programme scaling
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing Boa Vista bookings will see no change to entry requirements or flight schedules.
- Future visitors may notice new signage about waste‑reduction initiatives on beaches and at resort entrances.
Cost and documents
- No new fees for tourists are announced; the waste‑collection fee is aimed at hotels and operators.
- Travel documents and visa requirements remain unchanged.
What you need to do
- Hotel operators on Boa Vista should prepare to adopt refillable water systems and glass‑return schemes once pilots begin.
- Tour operators should monitor programme updates to align package offerings with new sustainability standards.
Who this affects
-
Large hotels on Boa Vista
They generate over 81% of the island’s waste and are central to the programme’s pilot projects.
What to do Prepare to implement refillable water stations, glass‑return systems and waste‑sorting practices.
-
Tour operators partnering with Boa Vista resorts
Their packages include accommodation that will be subject to new waste‑reduction measures.
What to do Update marketing materials to highlight sustainability initiatives.
-
Local waste collectors and informal recyclers
The programme aims to improve working conditions and create employment for this group.
What to do Engage with training and support programmes offered through the UN initiative.
-
Visitors to Boa Vista beaches
Beach cleanliness is a core focus of the waste‑management effort.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UN programme for waste on Boa Vista?
The UN‑backed programme, Building Public‑Private Partnerships to Boost Circular Economy, will introduce waste‑reduction measures, refillable water systems and recycling support on Boa Vista, aiming to mobilise about $20 million and start feasibility studies in 2027.
When will the waste‑management measures start on Boa Vista?
Feasibility studies and pilot designs are scheduled for 2027, with infrastructure investment and full implementation to follow after the pilots are validated.
Will tourists have to pay a new waste fee in Boa Vista?
No new fee for tourists is announced; the proposed waste‑collection fee is directed at hotels and tourism operators, not at individual visitors.
How will the programme affect hotels on Boa Vista?
Hotels will be expected to adopt refillable water stations, glass‑return schemes and improved waste‑sorting practices as part of the pilot projects that begin in 2027.
Which organisations are involved in the Boa Vista waste initiative?
The programme involves the Government of Cabo Verde, the Municipality of Boa Vista, UNIDO, UNEP, UN‑Habitat and the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cabo Verde.
