How we Calculate our Safari Emissions

At Napenda Adventures, we are committed to transparency and accuracy in calculating our safari emissions and offsetting them in meaningful ways. We recognise that precise emissions tracking is a complex task, and while we aim for the most reliable data possible, some variables are challenging to measure exactly. Our approach reflects the best available estimates and practices to date, using established standards and conservative estimates to ensure that our offsets are meaningful.

Below, we explain the steps we take to calculate our safari emissions from both vehicle use and accommodations during our safaris. From measuring the fuel efficiency of our safari vehicles to estimating the impact of stays at various lodges, each calculation aims to reflect the realities of safari travel in a way that is transparent and meaningful. We also outline the two levels we offer our guests – Level 1 and Level 2 – each tailored to meet the different levels of carbon accountability that align with their travel choices.

Through these efforts, we aim to create neutralise our impact on the environment, recognising that while the path to perfect precision is ongoing, immediate action is critical to preserving Tanzania’s wilderness.

Also see: What our Carbon Credit Safaris are, and why they are important to us.

Our Approach to Safari Emissions Calculations

1. Vehicle Emission Calculations

For each safari, we calculate emissions based on mileage covered. Using the IPCC’s (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) standards, we consider the efficiency of our vehicles and always apply a conservative, upper-range estimate to ensure comprehensive offsetting.

The average fuel economy of our Safari Land Cruisers is 6.5 km per litre, or 18.36 mpg. Using the IPCC guidelines of 2.7 kgs of Greenhouse Gas Emissions per unit (litre), we are able to calculate the amount of CO2 emissions generated by our Safari Land Cruisers.

E.g. 650 km of use equates to: 2.7 kg x 100 litres = 270 kg of CO₂.

2. Flight Emission Calculations

In addition to ground travel, we recognise that air travel within Tanzania contributes to the overall carbon footprint of each safari. We calculate emissions from domestic flights using reliable estimates provided through our partnership with Carbon Tanzania, ensuring that we accurately account for the impact of each hour of flight.

Based on these calculations, domestic flights within Tanzania produce an average of 53.33 kg of CO₂ per passenger per hour. This estimate is derived from an analysis of common aircraft types operating on these routes, including the Cessna Grand Caravan 208’s, Bombardier Q400, and ATR 72. By using an upper-end average for these aircraft, we ensure that our calculations are both realistic and comprehensive, capturing the full impact of air travel in our offsetting efforts.

$$E.g.\; A\; 2-hour\; flight\; from\; Northern\; Serengeti\; to\; Arusha\; equates\; to:\; 53.33\text{kg CO₂ per hour }\times 2\text{hours }=106.66\text{kg CO₂ per passenger.}$$

By factoring in both the distance traveled and time spent in the air, we strive to offer an reasonable assessment of emissions for each domestic flight. This data ensures our commitment to meaningful carbon compensation by reflecting the full scope of emissions for every safari experience. Through our collaboration with Carbon Tanzania, we direct resources to projects that actively reduce and capture CO₂, mitigating the impact of air travel emissions on Tanzania’s unique ecosystems.

3. Accommodation Emission Estimates

Calculating emissions for accommodations poses unique challenges, as every lodge and camp is different. With the help of Carbon Tanzania, we have adopted a reasonable range estimate for the emissions generated per night of stay. These figures allow us to offset emissions for accommodations, making each itinerary as accurate as possible.

We calculate emissions at the upper end at 200 kgs of CO₂ emissions per every night of stay on the safari.

E.g. 3 nights’ stay at a remote camp in the Serengeti equates to: 200 kg x 3 = 600 kg of CO₂

Types of Carbon Offset Safaris

1. Level 1 – Carbon Conscious Safaris

This program compensates safari emissions generated from safari vehicle travel during the entire itinerary, as well as any domestic flights. These itineraries are ideal for guests who wish to ensure their journey is as low-impact as possible when it comes to transportation. We believe this is the first step towards an engaged conversation on emissions.

2. Level 2 – Carbon Conscious Safaris

For guests choosing our Classic and Luxury safari options, we go a step further by compensating for the estimated carbon emissions from both safari vehicle use as well as those from the accommodation at the various camps, hotels and lodges. These itineraries will be clearly marked as “Level 2” with full calculations available for review.

Committed to Improvement and Transparency

We understand that calculating the exact emissions is not a perfect science in the complex safari environment. Each offset represents an estimate, and as we strive for precision, we are committed to continuously improving our calculations. Additionally, we are actively exploring partnerships with eco-friendly accommodations that have their own carbon offset initiatives to refine our offset calculations further.

Despite the challenges, we believe that taking action today is essential. Waiting for perfection risks inaction, and we are determined to make a meaningful impact with the resources we currently have.