Rejuvenation of The Smiling Coast: Innovative Sewage Treatment and electrification of the Tourism sector

Background

The Gambia is a renowned destination for its vibrant tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world. However, the rapid tourism growth has led to increased wastewater generation in the area, which poses significant environmental and public health challenges. The existing sewage treatment infrastructure may no longer be sufficient to meet the increasing demands, necessitating an expansion and upgrade of the sewage treatment networks.

Additionally, the project would provide alternative sources of electricity to the existing generators provided by the National Grid Company. The electricity supply, not only is it expensive but highly erratic resulting in the use of diesel generators in many hotels to power their hotels during electricity blackouts. This leads to very high operational costs for businesses and also contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases.

Objectives

• Expand sewage treatment infrastructure to accommodate increasing wastewater volumes in the Tourism Development area.

• Implement advanced sewage treatment technologies to meet stringent environmental standards and produce high-quality treated sewage.

• Develop a comprehensive plan for the safe and efficient use of treated sewage for agriculture, promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing freshwater demand.

• Introduce eco-friendly energy solutions, such as renewable sources like solar and wind, to provide green electricity to tourism businesses, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

• Engage local communities in awareness campaigns, training, and participation in sustainable practices, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the project's success.

  Outcomes

• Substantial improvement in water quality, reducing the environmental impact of sewage discharged into natural water bodies.

• Promotion of sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, contributing to food security and reducing freshwater usage.

• Significant reduction in carbon emissions through the introduction of green electricity solutions, showcasing the Gambia's commitment to environmental responsibility.

• Long-term sustainability of the tourism sector, ensuring its viability and attractiveness to eco-conscious tourists.

• Increased revenue generation resulting from cost savings on electricity and operational costs associated with maintaining diesel generators.

  Conclusion

  The expansion of sewage treatment networks, enhancement of sewage treatment, agricultural sewage reuse, and green electricity solutions represent a holistic approach to ensure the sustainability and eco-friendliness of the tourism industry in the Gambia. This project is in line with the principles of responsible tourism, showcasing a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being, while also contributing to the region's attractiveness to conscientious travelers.