Wild Tunisia: Empowering Sustainability and Economic Growth in Protected Areas
By webmaster-yessin
Published On September 25, 2024
Since its launch in 2018, the Wild Tunisia label, spearheaded by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) North Africa, has been dedicated to improving the management of Tunisia’s protected areas and natural sites of high ecological value. With financial support from the Drosos Foundation (180,000 euros), this initiative promotes environmentally responsible practices while enhancing the socio-economic conditions of local operators.
The Wild Tunisia label distinguishes products and services originating from protected areas, or their surrounding high ecological value zones, from their competitors. These offerings are produced in accordance with strict environmental and social standards, supporting both nature conservation and local livelihoods.
Types of Wild Tunisia Labels
The label is divided into two categories:
- WT Vert: For products and services directly from protected areas, such as national parks, Ramsar sites, and nature reserves.
- WT Orange: For products and services originating from areas surrounding protected zones.
This distinction ensures that both the core areas and their neighboring regions benefit from sustainable development practices while preserving ecological integrity.
Certified Startups in Jendouba
As of 2021, four startups in the Jendouba governorate proudly obtained the Wild Tunisia certification:
- Agromatica: Specialized in forest honey production, located in Fernana.
- Tunaroma: Based in Jendouba, involved in essential oil extraction.
- Novaroma: Operating in Ain Drahem, focuses on essential oil extraction.
- Dar El Ain: Organizes eco-tours in the integrated circuit of Melloula, Tabarka.
These businesses, selected for their commitment to sustainable practices, represent the future of green entrepreneurship in Tunisia.
Objectives and Criteria
The Wild Tunisia label aims to:
- Improve the management of protected areas and natural sites of high ecological value.
- Enhance the socio-economic conditions of local operators.
- Differentiate products and services originating from these areas from those of their competitors.
To qualify for the label, companies must be located near protected areas and adhere to stringent environmental standards. Activities involving the trade of wild animals or harmful environmental practices are strictly excluded, ensuring that the label remains committed to ecological and social sustainability.
Supporting Green Entrepreneurship
The Wild Tunisia label builds on the legacy of the Green Jobs program (2013-2018) implemented by WWF North Africa, which successfully created 13 green startups in Tunisia. By continuing to support entrepreneurship in rural and ecologically sensitive areas, the label fosters long-term economic development while ensuring that Tunisia’s natural heritage is protected.
Through ACT Consult’s involvement, the guidelines for honey production, essential oil extraction, and eco-tourism were carefully crafted, ensuring that local businesses comply with the necessary requirements to obtain the Wild Tunisia certification. Our team has played a pivotal role in assisting organizations with training and aligning their practices with these rigorous standards.
Conclusion
The Wild Tunisia label stands as a symbol of Tunisia’s dedication to combining environmental preservation with economic growth. By supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices, the label creates a balance between protecting nature and fostering socio-economic development.
As the initiative continues to grow, more businesses will have the opportunity to become certified, providing them with access to international markets and helping them stand out in a competitive environment.
This post is also available in: French