Kerala, which deserves the epithet of ‘God’s Own Country’, is focussing on sustainability amid rising travel woes. Renowned for its pleasant climate, backwaters, Ayurveda, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage, which form the foundation of its thriving tourism industry, Kerala is adopting several sustainable development schemes to put the state on the ecotourism map.
The ‘Green Tourism Destinations’ initiative aims to transform tourist centres into green destinations that prioritise sustainable waste management, hygiene, and environmental conservation. This project is part of "Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam," a campaign aimed at making Kerala a garbage-free state by March 30, 2025. The official declaration of "Green Tourism Destinations" will take place on October 2.
Several destinations have been selected for this initiative, including Kite Beach Park in Kasaragod, Iritty Eco Park and Chal Beach in Kannur, Lokanarkavu temple in Kozhikode, Nilambur Teak Museum in Malappuram, Mangalam Dam Park and Kanjirapuzha dam in Palakkad, Peechi dam, Hill View Park and Malankara dam in Idukki, Konni Eco Tourism- Elephant Shelter in Pathanamthitta, Adichanalloor Chira Park and Meenmutti in Kollam, Alappuzha beach, Thenmala Eco Adventure Park, Ponmudi, Ponnumthuruthu and Sasthampara in Thiruvananthapuram.
According to reports, LSG Minister M B Rajesh emphasised that maintaining cleanliness and attractiveness is crucial for attracting tourists to Kerala's tourism destinations, which is in line with the state’s larger plans for sustainable development. “We have tied up with tourism and forest departments and launched efforts to introduce sustainable waste management practices. We aim to transform all major tourism destinations into ‘Green Tourism Destinations’ by March 2025,” he told TNIE in an interview.
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