Enhanced Emphasis For Sustainable Growth Is Needed Now
. This is the need of the hour and globally the emphasis is on Sustainable Grow. This is Now Tourism Mantra of 21st Century.
. November 11, 2009 – UNWTO declared as RESPONSIBLE TOURISM DAY, during world Travel Mart in London in 2009.
. The day signifies: – Preservation of Heritage and Environment.
. Keeping in mind- Needs of local people-:
(1) Geographical settings
(2) Environment & Resources and that helps sustain the activities around a destination (including Hospitality Industry)
. Involving Local People:-All service providers be hotels/tour operators/travel agents etc. to select areas to involve locals rather than outsiders. Locals for servicing the hotel, locals for cultural events, locals to act as Guides etc.
. Benefit: – If local community is involved, it helps in reducing the chain of poverty. Locals become more vigilant as stake holders specially preservation of heritage monuments, wildlife etc.
. New Generation:- Tourists now ensure to visit such destinations which are providing healthy environmental surroundings where locals are involved and development activities are done by promoting natural resources; practicing Energy conservation; and Sewage treatment.
As these measures not only save money but also ensure use of renewable energy sources, help in energy & water consumption. Measures to reduce waste help environmental cleanliness.
Waste Management techniques must get priority by eco-tourism friendly.
Sustainable Practices generally focuss on:-
. In Accommodation & Hospitality Sector
. Use of non-toxic clearing agents & detergents
. 100% organic cotton sheets, towels and mattresses.
. Renewable energy sources like solar or wind energy.
. Guest Room & Hotel lobby recycling bins.
. Energy efficient lighting.
. On site transportation with green vehicles.
. Serve organic & local grown food.
. Gray water recycling that is re-use of kitchen, bath & laundry water for gardens & landscaping.
. Paper recycling programme
. Sewage treatment plants as manure.
. No use of plastics. Use paper bags/textile bags
. Buying locally grown fruits & vegetables.
The emphasis must also be on – (Travel & Tourism Sector):-
a) Adopting Responsible Tourism Practices with due respect to Human Rights.
b) Promoting knowledge, sharing knowledge and each others experience. Specially involving locals/all involved in tourism business.
c) Thorough understanding of the environment & respect the environment.
d) Do not bring urban construction in a fragile environment & despoil the same eco-sensitive surroundings -control make emission, environmental pollution – Noise, water etc.
e) Promote organic farming.
f) Reduce the carbon footprint and energy consumption by utilizing solar & other renewable sources of energy, whenever & wherever possible.
g) We should give back to society from where we have benefited (which is termed corporate Responsibility) for spread of education, adopt monuments for beautification & upkeep which are located around the hotel or take up clearing up the city garbage & boost sense of hygiene.
