Abstract
Sustainable development suggests that there are restrictions to the obtainability of ecological resources and the
planet to engage human activities. Limited South African research exists in the field of sustainable development in
adventure tourism SMMEs especially the role of Government in terms of implementation of sustainable development
initiatives. A structured questionnaire was administered via email and hard copies. A total of 105 usable responses
were received. Government, business associations and certification bodies have unrelated methods for evaluating
sustainability issues. The tourism sector is overwhelmed with initiatives and certifications intended at facilitation
and adoption of sustainable development practices. This adds to the confusion that entrepreneurs face when it
comes to choosing an appropriate tool. There is consensus that entrepreneurs want to develop their sustainability
knowledge base. It is recommended that the different institutions or actors in the arena of sustainable development
should make information on sustainable development easily available. The SMMEs also indicated that the
legislative framework affecting small businesses should be improved. The government, should award rebates to
SMMEs for implementing sustainable development initiatives. Alternative funding for implementing sustainable
development initiatives should also be established.