Green Tourism v/s Eco tourism
The environmental movement gained prominence in the 1960s, prompting many companies to market themselves as environmentally friendly. As the tourism market continues to evolve, it is essential to highlight the sustainable aspects of tourism.
Green Tourism
Initially, green tourism referred to small-scale tourism that encouraged visiting natural areas while minimizing environmental impact. The term traditionally described businesses engaging in environmentally friendly activities. However, in recent years, “green tourism” has often been associated with greenwashing—where companies prioritize their image over actual environmental and community contributions.
Definition: Green tourism generally refers to environmentally friendly tourism practices that minimize environmental impact. This can include energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and promoting sustainability in general.
Scope: It has a broader scope and can be applied to various types of tourism activities, not necessarily focused on natural areas. For instance, urban hotels and restaurants can adopt green tourism practices.
Focus: The focus is on reducing the negative impact of tourism on the environment through sustainable practices.
Ecotourism
Ecotourism is a niche within tourism aimed at visiting pristine, natural areas with minimal impact on the destination. It is often seen as an alternative to mass tourism, focusing primarily on the flora and fauna of a region rather than urban destinations.
Ecotourism emphasizes conserving both terrestrial and marine environments. Its core principles include reducing tourism’s impact on ecosystems, raising awareness of good environmental practices, and establishing low-impact tourism facilities. Essential to ecotourism is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the travel industry by uniting local communities, the tourism sector, and nature preservationists.
The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”
As tourism grows as an industry, it does not always benefit the environment and local communities. Ecotourism and sustainable tourism have gained popularity in response to the rise of mass tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism development requires stakeholder participation in a well-defined political framework. It is a long-term, continuous process that involves monitoring tourism impacts and implementing corrective measures as needed. Tourist satisfaction and awareness are also crucial for sustainable tourism development.
Definition: Eco-tourism is a form of sustainable travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.
Scope: It is more specific and typically involves travel to natural, often remote, areas with an emphasis on conservation and education.
Focus: The primary focus is on experiencing natural environments, often involving activities that support conservation efforts and provide socio-economic benefits to local communities. Eco-tourism is often seen as an alternative to mass tourism.
Key Differences
Scope and Focus: Green tourism can be applied to a wide range of tourism activities and locations, including urban environments, while eco-tourism specifically involves travel to natural areas.
Goals: Green tourism aims to make tourism activities more environmentally friendly overall. Eco-tourism specifically aims to conserve natural environments and benefit local communities while providing educational experiences.
Activities: Green tourism might include practices like using renewable energy in hotels, reducing water usage, and promoting recycling. Eco-tourism involves activities like guided nature tours, wildlife watching, and staying in eco-lodges that support conservation.
Both green tourism and eco-tourism are essential for promoting sustainability in the tourism industry, but they approach it from slightly different angles.
Eco-Friendly Tourism in Mumbai
It’s hard to imagine seeking nature-centric, low-carbon, community-led experiences in one of India’s most congested and ever-growing cities: Mumbai. However, we reached out to a handful of passionate Mumbai locals who are dedicated to environmental and social impact. From flamingo-watching and organic farmers’ markets to witnessing a circular economy in the city’s largest slum, here are some offbeat, immersive, and eco-friendly things to do in Mumbai:
- Walk Along the Seafront
Amidst the cacophony of traffic and incessant construction, it’s easy to forget that Mumbai boasts a wonderful seafront. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, one of the best eco-friendly activities in Mumbai is to stroll around Colaba, Ballard Pier, Bandra, or Dadar. An early morning jog at Jogger’s Park in Bandra followed by some bird watching is also a great option—we spotted and documented nearly 50 unique bird species during one such walk!
Additionally, visit the Coastal & Marine Biodiversity Centre for an ethical flamingo-watching boat ride. At least momentarily, you’ll forget that you’re in one of the most congested cities.
Recommended Routes:
- Bandra: Joggers Park – Carter Skatepark – promenade – mangroves near dog park.
- Colaba: Art Deco precinct. Start in the center of the Oval Maiden and look for the visual map on the pathway.
- Slumdog Billionaire: Recycling and Unorganized Markets at Dharavi
Dharavi, one of the largest slums in the world, is often viewed negatively by locals. However, a tour of this shantytown can be eye-opening. Over 60% of Mumbai’s plastic and 80% of its solid waste are recycled here. Dharavi is a real-life example of a circular economy and sustainability in action.
Besides recycling, the unorganized markets for embroidery, leather, pottery, snacks, faux jewellery, steel, and cardboard manufacturing are truly remarkable. A visit to Dharavi might even inspire you to become an entrepreneur!
- High Tea and Yoga with Peacocks
To truly appreciate Mumbai, schedule an online appointment to visit the Governor’s bungalow. This 44-acre lush expanse, surrounded by the sea on three sides, boasts a thick forest, a private beach, and untouched lawns home to 25 peacocks and various other flora and fauna.
After savouring some refreshing tea and saluting the flag, head to Banganga and Hanging Gardens nearby. These serene pockets in the bustling city are beacons of hope, inspiring us to tread lightly and appreciate the surrounding beauty.
- Trek in a Protected Forest
Hidden in Goregaon East is the Conservation Education Centre, located in a lush green protected forest hosting a variety of endemic trees, birds, and even a resident leopard. An early morning trek here, guided by trained volunteers, is exhilarating and educational for all ages.
A memorable event at the center was their zero-waste, eco-friendly New Year celebrations, featuring a treasure hunt, a night trail in the forest, stargazing, and wholesome, locally prepared cuisine.
- Climb Gilbert Hill: The Oldest Remnant of Mumbai’s Past
Gilbert Hill, a 66-million-year-old basalt rock formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, is one of three such formations in the world. Despite its significance, many Mumbaikars are unaware of this 200-foot monolith. Located in Andheri, the hill offers a stunning sunrise view and a chance to see Black kites.
- Visit the Organic Farmers’ Market
My Sunday morning ritual involves visiting the organic Farmers’ Market in Bandra, initiated by Kavita Mukhi. This market promotes rural, certified organic farmers with small holdings and features new earth-friendly trades, workshops, and an organic café.
It’s a great place to buy groceries or enjoy breakfast served with compostable cutlery. Connect with like-minded locals, learn about eco-friendly products, and support rural artisans.
