Sustainability tourism attempts to make a low impact on the culture and environment and promote conservation of the ecosystem. The industry also serves to produce income for the local population.
Movements such as sustainability tourism and eco-tourism are gaining momentum in India. More and more travel based associations are making efforts to promote sustainability tourism in India. Some of the basic do's and don'ts of sustainability tourism are as follows:
Do's
First of all, when you travel to any destination in India make sure that all the non-degradable waste such as plastic bags and empty bottles are carried back by you. Do not litter all these wastes on the roads of the destination you travel to. Carry them back and dispose off later in municipal bins only.
Secondly, do not disturb the sanctity of sacred places, temples and traditions of the destination you visit.
Thirdly, do not fill the place with noise pollution. Make sure that you do not blare tape recorders and radios in natural resorts and wildlife parks.
Fourthly, whenever you use a temporary toilet near the campsites do not forget to cover them with sand or mud. Keep it in mind that any such spot is at least 30 meters off from any of the water resources.
Lastly, no matter wherever you are, take prior permission before you click a photograph.
Dont's
Firstly, do not cut away any sort of flora and fauna to take them back with you. Our environment is actually very delicate. Therefore, protecting the bio-diversity should be our major concern. It should be kept safe at any cost.
Secondly, do not use pollutants like washing soaps while you wash clothes or take a bath in springs and streams.
Thirdly, while you are on a campsite make sure that you are not using wood as a fuel to cook food. Burning wood pollutes the air. Also do not forget to leave cigarettes butts while traveling in forests.
Fourthly, respect the traditions followed by the local population. Do not offer sweets or any such items in order to tempt the locals.
Lastly, non biodegradable wastes such as plastic bags, plastic bottles and other such materials should not be littered as they are unhealthy for the environment.
It is true that as a traveller, you will definitely make an impact on the environment and culture of any destination you may choose to visit. Thus, it becomes your responsibility not to disturb the environment and respect the culture and customs of the place you visit.
