Conservation: Education begins at the grassroots

I truly wonder if the term sustainable tourism is understood in its true and absolute sense in India. As we think of it in a broader sense, the form of travel that is taking place does create an environmental impact. There is a definite damage to the ecology and we all contribute towards this.

Travel is inevitable but we can do our bit to prevent and reduce the impact on our eco-system. First, it is extremely essential to involve the local bodies and communities and educate them about the importance of environment preservation and conservation. The local bodies have to be strengthened. Local and community participation is the real answer for any sustainable tourism project to be a success.

We as humans have created a structure that is pernicious. As of today, there is a total disparity between local capacity and local capability. Buildings and structures that are being constructed at supersonic speed are leading to more damage than development. They are being constructed in wrong locations and lack basic systems such as proper solid waste and water management systems. The transport systems are also unplanned that go against the principles of a clean environment. At present there are no proper guideline or guide books in place; there is lack of articulation and implementation.

We all need to bring in education and awareness about the environment and sensitivity towards it right at the school level. One needs to build a sense of pride and ownership towards their environment and habitat. It is extremely vital to educate ourselves about the impact of our activities and the damaging effect it has on our environment. There are various kinds of inputs and outputs.

Take the example of Shimla – a popular tourism destination. Forty years ago, it was a real example of a pristine and beautiful holiday place. There was some degree of order. But today it is one large sprawling slum – like place. Unplanned and unreasonable construction has made the place completely chaotic. It is a perfect example of how a beautiful tourist destination is destroyed due to vested interest and absolute lack of planning.

Had the local communities intervened and raised a voice against the government and the entrepreneurs, the place would have remained uncorrupted and unsullied. People’s participation and awakening is extremely important to bring about change. Goa is yet another example of a beautiful destination being destroyed due to too much of tourist inflow and unplanned, haphazard growth. Kerala is one example that has tried to blend in the local culture with the environment. They have been close to living up to the example of sustainable and responsible tourism to a large extent.

Today, we need improved and efficient transport system, a good rail network from city center to city center and faster connectivity between metros. Well-oiled and well functioning infrastructure will definitely help tourism and sustainable tourism in the long run.