Vava'u Environmental Protection Association (VEPA)

Last December, we were honoured to be selected as the recipient of this year’s community voted environmental contribution through the Tonga Pocket Guide / Trip Carver project, receiving a donation of just over TOP$700.

The funds were raised through a collaboration between Tonga Pocket Guide and Tonga Tourism Authority. Trip Carver is a tourism initiative designed to give back directly to local environmental and community organisations. One percent of selected tourism bookings is set aside for charitable contributions, with participating tourism providers invited to vote on where the funds are allocated each year. We were very grateful to receive the highest number of votes in this year’s selection.

We sincerely thank the tourism operators and partners who supported VEPA through this process and recognise the trust placed in our work. The donation will support our ongoing environmental conservation efforts, including community awareness initiatives and programmes focused on protecting Tonga’s natural ecosystems.

This initiative demonstrates how tourism can play a meaningful role in environmental protection when local businesses, conservation groups and tourism organisations work together. We commend Tonga Pocket Guide, Tonga Tourism Authority and Trip Carver for creating a transparent and community led model that supports long term sustainability.

VEPA looks forward to continued collaboration and hopes to see the programme grow further next year, allowing even greater support for environmental action across Tonga.