+ What is your name?

Rogers Etimu

+ Are you submitting as a team or as an individual?

Team submission

+ Where are you located?

Uganda

+ In one sentence, tell us about your idea.

Upcycle Impact Tours promotes sustainable tourism by integrating eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation, empowering local communities through training and sustainable practices.

+ Describe your ideal collaborative partner or partners.

My ideal collaborative partner or partners would be organizations or professionals specializing in consulting, marketing, and research within the travel and tourism sector, who are committed to sustainability, accessibility, and innovative development solutions.

+ What makes your idea innovative? Why has no one ever done it before?

Our idea is innovative because it integrates multiple aspects of sustainable tourism into a cohesive, community-driven model that has not been implemented at this scale before. The concept uniquely combines waste management with eco-tourism by employing eco-warriors for waste collection and repurposing plastic bottles into eco-cottages, addressing both environmental sustainability and housing needs. We are creating a sustainable village that offers tourists immersive cultural experiences, including traditional food, clothing, folk songs, and dances, thereby supporting local heritage and traditions. This village will also showcase and support artisans, such as drum makers, and protect cultural heritage sites. By merging these elements, our approach not only enhances environmental conservation and cultural preservation but also drives economic development in a holistic manner. This integrated model, focusing on waste management, cultural immersion, and sustainable living, is unique and has not been pursued comprehensively before.

+ What is the most immediate or most pressing challenge you're facing right now?

The most immediate and pressing challenge is identifying and connecting with partners who not only possess the expertise in consulting, marketing, and research but also share our commitment to sustainability and community-driven tourism initiatives.

+ What is it about your idea that makes you feel good?

Our idea empowers local communities, promotes sustainable tourism, and preserves cultural heritage, creating a positive impact on both the environment and livelihoods. This alignment with our mission and the tangible benefits it brings to the people and ecosystems we work with makes us feel incredibly good about our efforts.

+ Does your idea intersect with the travel and tourism industry?

Yes

+ How does your idea support People, Planet, and Profit?

People: We empower local communities, including women and youth, by providing training and job opportunities in eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and cultural preservation. By involving community members in activities such as waste management and traditional crafts, we enhance their livelihoods and promote social inclusion.

Planet: Our project prioritizes environmental sustainability through initiatives like reforestation, waste management, and the construction of eco-cottages from recycled plastic bottles. We aim to protect biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and promote responsible consumption and production practices, directly benefiting the environment.

Profit: By developing eco-tourism infrastructure and sustainable village experiences, we create new revenue streams that support local economies. Our model fosters economic growth through tourism, which also helps sustain the project's environmental and social initiatives. The integration of traditional crafts and cultural experiences into the tourism offering generates additional income for local artisans and businesses.

+ Who will benefit the most from your idea?

Local Communities: Residents of Mpigi will benefit from job creation, increased income from eco-tourism, and improved infrastructure. The project will also provide training and economic opportunities for women, youth, and artisans, enhancing their livelihoods.

Eco-Warriors: Individuals involved in waste collection will gain employment and skills, contributing to environmental conservation and community well-being.

Tourists: Visitors will experience immersive cultural activities and sustainable tourism practices, gaining deeper insights into local traditions and contributing to environmental and cultural preservation.

Cultural Artisans: Drum makers and other artisans will receive support, training, and market access, helping them sustain and grow their craft.

Environmental Stakeholders: Conservation efforts, including reforestation and protection of biodiversity, will benefit from the project's focus on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

+ Ideally, when would you launch this idea?

I've already launched my idea

+ Which UN goals does your idea relate to?

• Responsible Consumption and Production

• Gender Equality

• Sustainable Cities and Communities

• Life on Land

• No Poverty

• Climate Action

• Decent Work and Economic Growth

• Partnerships to achieve the Goal

+ Your website URL

https://upcycleimpacttours.org/

+ Your Video URL

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiU5YkCUl7, https://drive.google.com/file/d/18-QyU3ao9v2OyljC4KzfQ0-_GDAaJAgX/view?usp=sharing