All articles tagged with #responsible tourism
European countries are implementing hefty fines for unruly tourists to promote responsible behavior and protect local communities, with measures including fines for public nudity, inappropriate footwear, public drinking, and environmental damage, signaling a shift towards more sustainable tourism practices.
Sonu Shivdasani, founder of Soneva and Six Senses hotel brands, suggests two indicators of a sustainable hotel: the absence of branded water, which reduces single-use plastic bottles and potential chemical pollution, and the use of refillable ceramic bottles for toiletries instead of plastic containers. Shivdasani emphasizes the economic benefits of sustainability, such as cost savings from solar energy and on-site produce, and challenges the notion that operating sustainably is more expensive. He also highlights the importance of businesses taking responsibility for sustainability and introduces a guest environmental levy to fund initiatives that address carbon emissions and support various projects.
Locals in Maui are expressing concern and frustration as West Maui prepares to reopen to tourists just two months after the deadliest wildfire in recent US history devastated the area. Some tourists have been seen acting insensitively, taking photos and posing for vacation pictures in areas that were affected by the fires. Locals are urging tourists to show compassion, empathy, and respect for the community's healing process. A petition has been started to delay the reopening and prioritize the urgent needs of the community, including housing, schooling, childcare, and mental health support.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency has launched the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan, which focuses on responsible recreation and tourism. The plan includes pillars such as education, improving transportation options, and building more trails. The agency hopes to establish a national model for responsible travel and is seeking community input. The plan is a partnership between almost 20 public and private sector partners committed to preserving the natural resources of the region.