PAKISTAN’S pristine landscapes, particularly its northern areas, are marred by the careless disposal of waste by tourists. Ecotourism emerges as the solution to this pressing environmental threat. This article emphasizes the necessity for all stakeholders to contribute to making tourism in Pakistan more environmentally conscious. Numerous initiatives have been initiated to foster sustainable tourism practices.
Upon visiting the famous Lake Saif-ul-Malook in Pakistan’s northern region, my anticipation of a picturesque scene was met with dismay as the beauty was tarnished by discarded food and plastic waste. This unfortunate scenario isn’t isolated; it’s a recurring issue across various natural sites – beaches, national parks and mountains.
The surge in tourism, both domestic and international, has resulted in a problematic increase in waste mismanagement. This negligence poses a threat to the environment, endangers local communities and disrupts delicate ecosystems. Urgent measures are required to address these challenges. Enter ecotourism – an approach advocating responsible travel that prioritizes environmental conservation, supports local wellbeing and promotes education. Defined by The International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism stands for responsible travel to natural areas, aimed at conserving the environment while sustaining the local populace’s well-being through education and interpretation. This approach not only benefits the locals by generating income, such as employing them as guides, but also encourages economic responsibility among all stakeholders involved in the tourism industry.
Pakistan has recently seen a surge in ecotourism initiatives, signalling a positive trend towards sustainable tourism practices. However, the effective implementation of these initiatives necessitates a collective effort. The government’s role is pivotal—it must enforce existing laws rigorously, including imposing heavy fines for littering, to instil a sense of responsibility among tourists. Additionally, hotels play a crucial role – their responsible architecture practices and sustainable waste disposal methods are integral in preserving the natural beauty of these areas.
Many hotels have taken steps like utilizing sustainable construction material and urging guests to contribute to environmental preservation, such as planting trees. Individual responsibility is equally crucial. Visitors must take proactive steps to avoid disturbing the natural ecosystem by disposing of trash thoughtfully, utilizing reusable cloth bags and supporting local businesses. Opting for accommodations that prioritize waste recycling and consciously minimize their environmental impact is imperative.
Education plays a significant role in cultivating ethical tourism practices. Initiatives like the Sustainable Tourism Foundation Pakistan (STFP) and government-led projects, such as the Ecotourism and Camping Villages in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aim to promote sustainable tourism while ensuring tangible benefits for local communities.
As Pakistan’s tourism continues to grow, a concerted effort towards responsible ecotourism is paramount. Engaging all stakeholders at various levels is key to combat pollution at tourist sites. It is imperative that every individual contributes to making tourism in Pakistan eco-friendlier to ensure the preservation of these invaluable natural spaces for the generations to come.
—The writer is a contributing columnist, based in Lahore.
views expressed are writer’s own.
