environmental impact of tourism in goa

Environment, Resources and Sustainable Tourism

Goa as a Case Study

• © 2023
• Ashoka G. Dessai 0

School of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, India

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• Provides an in-depth read to guide critical thinking on the complex issue of the impact of tourism
• Discusses the impact of the geodynamics of the environment on the sociodynamics of Goa, India
• Offers a comprehensive text for students, researchers, academics, policymakers, and professionals

Part of the book series: Advances in Geographical and Environmental Sciences (AGES)

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Table of contents (7 chapters)

Front matter, introduction.

Ashoka G. Dessai

Mineral Resources

Mining industry, water resources, environmental assessment, waste management, sustainable tourism, back matter.

• Sustainable tourism
• Biodiversity
• Environmental pollution
• Conservation
• Waste disposal
• Sustainability

About this book

This book suggests sustainable economy from the viewpoint of tourism fostering low carbon footprint. Focussed on conserving heritage, culture and endemic biota of a crucial biodiversity hotspot of the world, the book discusses the impact of a large population, fast-paced development and excessive consumption of earth resources by tourism in a developing economy.

The book (i) assesses the impact of overexploitation of earth resources on environmental components such as air, water, land and people, (ii) examines the sustainability of tourism on the physical, economic and socio-cultural environment including human lifestyles, (iii) presents  the potential of tourism in promoting sustainable development, poverty alleviation and conservation of nature and  (iv) formulates recommendations for tourism, fostering sustainable development in Goa, India.

The book offers students, researchers, academics and professionals a comprehensive discourse integrating geological and societal perspectives on core issues. It generates critical thinking on the complex issue of sustainable tourism by providing in-depth perspective on peoples of different hues and their role in safeguarding the future of this unique region.

Authors and Affiliations

About the author.

Prof. Dr. Ashoka G. Dessai has over 40 years of experience in post-graduate teaching and research, initially at Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India, and later at Goa University, Goa, India. He has conducted research in India and abroad and has successfully supervised research leading to M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees. He has published more than 52 research papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals and has been a reviewer for international research journals. 

Prof. Dr. Dessai has authored two books:  The Lithosphere Beneath the Indian Shield:  A Geodynamic Perspective  (Springer Nature, Switzerland) and  Geology and Mineral Resources of Goa  (New Delhi Publishers, India). He has delivered lectures at several universities, professional organisations and research institutes in India and other countries.

Bibliographic Information

Book Title : Environment, Resources and Sustainable Tourism

Book Subtitle : Goa as a Case Study

Authors : Ashoka G. Dessai

Series Title : Advances in Geographical and Environmental Sciences

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-1843-0

Publisher : Springer Singapore

eBook Packages : Earth and Environmental Science , Earth and Environmental Science (R0)

Copyright Information : The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2023

Hardcover ISBN : 978-981-99-1842-3 Published: 27 May 2023

Softcover ISBN : 978-981-99-1845-4 Due: 27 June 2023

eBook ISBN : 978-981-99-1843-0 Published: 26 May 2023

Series ISSN : 2198-3542

Series E-ISSN : 2198-3550

Edition Number : 1

Number of Pages : XXIII, 234

Number of Illustrations : 2 b/w illustrations, 35 illustrations in colour

Topics : Environmental Geography , Natural Resource and Energy Economics , Tourism Management , Sustainable Development , Water, general , Waste Management/Waste Technology

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Exploring Goa’s Eco-Tourism Oasis: A Journey Towards Sustainable Adventure

• February 5, 2024
• Post Comment

Nestled along India’s southwest coast, Goa beckons travellers with more than just its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife. Beneath the glitter and glamour lies a burgeoning eco-tourism revolution, inviting visitors to discover the state’s lush landscapes, biodiverse reserves, and sustainable projects. From wildlife sanctuaries to nature trails, and birdwatching to beach cleanups, Goa offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and responsible travellers alike, where environmental preservation takes centre stage. Let’s embark on a journey to Goa’s epicentre of eco-tourism, where the ethos of responsible travel converges with the harmony of nature.

Preserving Natural Sanctuaries

Goa boasts a rich tapestry of natural wonders, safeguarded through the establishment of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Here, rare and endangered species find sanctuary amidst pristine habitats, inviting tourists to explore through:

Guided Nature Walks: Knowledgeable naturalists lead immersive walks, offering insights into the local ecosystem, wildlife, and flora.

Birdwatching Tours: Goa’s sanctuaries are havens for birdwatchers, providing opportunities to spot a diverse array of avian species under expert guidance.

Wildlife Safaris: Thrilling safaris offer glimpses of deer, leopards, and myriad bird species in their natural habitats, promoting wildlife conservation and responsible tourism.

Biodiversity Exploration: Educational displays and interpretive centers within sanctuaries educate visitors about local biodiversity and conservation efforts, fostering appreciation and stewardship.

By promoting visits to these protected areas, Goa embraces eco-tourism as a catalyst for conservation, offering travelers meaningful encounters with nature while supporting local communities and preservation efforts.

Nature Trails and Sustainable Trekking

Goa’s verdant landscapes offer a playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with picturesque trails winding through unspoiled forests and rugged terrain. Trekking options include:

Western Ghats Expeditions: Trekking through the UNESCO-listed Western Ghats unveils panoramic vistas, lush jungles, and diverse flora and fauna, promoting sustainable exploration and appreciation of natural heritage.

Waterfall Treks: Trails leading to enchanting waterfalls like Dudhsagar Falls offer refreshing experiences amidst lush vegetation, highlighting Goa’s natural splendor and biodiversity.

Guided Hikes: Professional naturalists lead informative hikes, providing insights into the region’s cultural significance and ecological diversity while promoting responsible hiking practices.

By embracing responsible hiking techniques and respecting wildlife habitats, travelers can immerse themselves in Goa’s natural beauty while minimizing their environmental impact.

Birdwatching Escapades

Goa’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, marshes, and coastal regions, harbor a profusion of bird species, offering unparalleled birdwatching experiences. Key destinations include:

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Named after renowned ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this sanctuary on Chorao Island is a haven for kingfishers, eagles, herons, and other avian residents.

Wetland Areas: Goa’s water bodies, such as the Zuari River, attract wading birds and aquatic species, providing prime birdwatching opportunities for enthusiasts.

Migratory Bird Sightings: During winter migrations, Goa hosts a plethora of migratory bird species, offering rare sightings and photographic opportunities for birdwatching aficionados.

Guided birding tours led by experienced naturalists enhance the birdwatching experience, fostering appreciation for avian diversity and promoting ethical birding practices.

Beach Cleanup Initiatives

Goa’s pristine coastline, a magnet for tourists, also faces challenges of litter and environmental degradation. Community-driven beach cleanup projects offer opportunities for:

Volunteer Participation: Tourists can actively contribute to beach cleanup efforts, supporting local communities and marine conservation initiatives while enjoying the scenic beauty of Goa’s shores.

Environmental Awareness: Cleanup events serve as platforms for environmental education and awareness campaigns, highlighting the importance of responsible waste disposal and coastal conservation.

Responsible Tourism: By participating in beach cleanup programs and practicing responsible tourism, travelers can minimize their ecological footprint and preserve the natural splendor of Goa’s beaches for future generations.

Community-Based Tourism Experiences

Through community-based tourism initiatives, travelers can engage with local culture, traditions, and livelihoods, fostering mutual understanding and support. Options include:

Homestay Accommodations: Staying with local families offers authentic experiences and supports the local economy, promoting cultural exchange and sustainable tourism practices.

Artisanal Workshops: Participating in traditional craft-making workshops and culinary experiences not only supports local artisans but also preserves cultural heritage and traditions.

Cultural Events: Attending regional musical, dance, and festival events provides insights into Goa’s rich cultural diversity, fostering appreciation and respect for local customs.

By embracing community-based tourism, travelers become advocates for sustainable development, contributing to the preservation of Goa’s cultural heritage and socioeconomic well-being.

In Conclusion

Eco-tourism in Goa transcends the traditional beach-and-party narrative, offering travelers immersive experiences that celebrate nature, culture, and responsible travel practices. Whether exploring wildlife sanctuaries, trekking through lush forests, or engaging with local communities, visitors become stewards of Goa’s natural and cultural heritage. By embracing eco-tourism principles, travelers forge meaningful connections with the environment and local communities, leaving behind positive impacts that resonate far beyond their journey. In Goa’s eco-tourism oasis, the journey becomes a transformative voyage of discovery and stewardship, where the beauty of nature converges with the spirit of sustainability.

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Is ecotourism always a good thing? Goa under the spotlight

Is the growth of ecotourism projects in Goan hinterlands—the dense forest cover of Western Ghats—a good thing for the native community and wildlife? Or is it harmful? According to locals and experts, it’s both.

Visiting Goa—long synonymous with the ultimate Indian coastal vacation—is like stepping into an episode of a travel show.

You can snorkel in scenic bays, thaw under the sun inches away from the shore, and hike around, discovering crescent coves. In another part of the state, nature flourishes to bring about stretches of the misty deciduous forests of the hinterland. It’s here where a cluster of national parks mingle with the biodiverse UNESCO-awarded Western Ghats of India. Home to some of Asia’s rarest endemic species, the state is also widely considered a tourism success at a time when many destinations are reeling from the pandemic.

But a recent announcement to introduce ecotourism in the hinterlands revealed a different side of Goa, one that’s firmly entrenched in the plague of ecotourism that threatens the travel industry. In a place so heavily dependent on tourism, and where travel singlehandedly contributes to about 16 percent of the state gross domestic product, many in Goa welcomed the initiative.

But an overwhelming number of locals and environmentalists from across the country did not.

And here’s why: Goa is the smallest state on which a major part of the Western Ghats—an inland mountain range notable for being a global biodiversity hotspot—is critically positioned. This means that active land fragmentation can disrupt the continuity of the declared Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA).

If the forest cover is thinned or fragmented, it will no longer share an important corridor with neighboring states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. That would leave open the possibility of a negative impact on approximately 10,000 species of flora and fauna.

“Camping and trails inside such establishments mean changing the habitat to accommodate an activity, not the wildlife. It’s not natural for a leopard or elephant to be in an environment where people are clamoring all day.” - Arvind Gowali, conservationist

The pandemic highlighted the unending impact of years of uncontrollable tourism, from land erosion to ever-increasing beach pollution and depleting forest cover. In doing so, it has sparked a nervous debate on how shaping forest reserves and sanctuaries to bring in more tourism will negatively affect both the state and the eco-sensitive regions. In this debate, the unchecked political system and a long history of unethical practices have forced the people to question the intention of such campaigns.

So for a destination facing an unending battle with overtourism, can an ecotourism strategy destroy the very same place it is trying to protect?

It was my seventh day in Panaji, Goa’s cosmopolitan capital on the Mandovi River. After spending a week reveling in the beach scene, I drifted inland on a ferry, riding through the estuarine mangrove habitat to reach Ilhas de Goa before walking past mangrove forest that surrounds the path to the Island of Chorão. The largest among the 17 islands in the northern region, it is the only place remaining in North Goa where you can be among the rural communities and see the only stretch of uncommercialized mangroves.

To give a better idea of figures, in 2020, incoming domestic and international travel accounted for over 3.3 million visitors, but post-pandemic, those figures steadily rose —Goa recorded more than 1.9 million tourists between March and May in 2022. And on average, the annual count can be more than eight million.

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is one of seven places in Goa named as part of an eco-tourism project announced by state minister Vishwajit Rane. The proposal detailed a “thrust” to develop eco-tourism within the forest to “create a new ecosystem” to ensure more people can access the wildlife inside these parks.

We began to make way towards the sanctuary—named after Dr. Salim Moizuddin Ali, a prominent Indian ornithologist—to learn about why the smallest of all sanctuaries in the state is considered the one in most danger of succumbing to overtourism. With hundreds of tourists passing us by every 10 minutes, often forming a beeline to compensate for space and not tumble over, we slowly began to realize why this is a prevailing issue.

We continued for another mile as the path turned to a part-paved, part-dirt road, but without the densely packed forest around us. When we finally reached the gate of the protected sanctuary, the throngs of people I encountered became an appropriate preface for the story unfolding before me.

Inside there’s a confluence of sounds that shift easy from an eerie silence to the rumbling chaos of overlapping conversations. While some visitors were only peeking at the animals through the lens of their Instagram stories, most found themselves entranced by the wildlife. I found myself massaging my neck after a long day of craning at trees when a forest worker spotted me and offered to help me up a three-storied tower to sneak in a panoramic (and relaxing) view of the sanctuary before sundown.

“Because a large yacht has a bigger footprint than a smaller boat, but multiple small boats may have a bigger footprint than one large yacht, how do you decide what is ecotourism and what is not?” - Puja Mitra, Terra Conscious

It’s ironic I was taking in the view from the top of watchtower that almost collapsed due to overtourism. In 2018, the sanctuary has to close, after the then-rusted and underfunded structure almost collapsed with tourists on board, endangering the lives of half-a-dozen visitors and forest offices.

Just like the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, the most protected reserves due for development are in landscapes high in biodiversity. Eastern Goa, a geographic region that forms most of the Western Ghats, has already seen systematic and unethical destruction of forestland to prioritize infrastructure—the same infrastructure that the government is planning for the upcoming ecotourism plan.

The idea of ecotourism as a catalyst to capitalize on untapped nature is not a new one, but Goa is determined to take it to the next level. By inviting people to walk through ecologically-sacred grounds—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site that is one of the world’s 10 hottest biodiversity hotspots—they’re not only profiting from it but sensationalizing sensitive places to gain more profits than they from promoting other areas.

At Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary—a relatively new protected area more than 30 miles from Panaji—I meet Arvind Gowali, a forest officer and conservationist. “It’s important to remember that ecotourism in this context is a business,” he tells me. “If you change the context to conservation, then the ecotourism strategy will limit contact with wildlife, limit the number of people who can visit the biodiverse regions, and only cater to non-invasive tourism.”

It’s something we don’t always consider when we read ‘eco-tourism’. “Camping and trails inside such establishments mean changing the habitat to accommodate an activity, not the wildlife,” he says. “It’s not natural for a leopard or elephant to be in an environment where people are clamoring all day.”

In the age of hyper-conscious travel where a holistic approach is becoming key to tourism, governments are walking the moral and ethical tight rope. Ecotourism, a positive approach aimed to promote responsible travel to natural areas and curb the unfortunate consequences can quickly become a double-edged sword. Without transparency and rigorous checks, even the most ambitious and virtuous form of travel, we now know, it can become the most destructive action we can take.

Puja Mitra, a social impact entrepreneur and founder of Terra Conscious —an award-winning, socially responsible conservation enterprise—often observes this conflict of revenue vs conservation on the frontlines.

“The scientific community is scared but loud, and so are the conservationists who failed to get their voice heard, and people like me who grew up here.” - Varun Gopal, lguide/fisherman

“When commercial trawling started replacing small-scale fishing, many fishers turned towards dolphin/crocodile watching, or recreational fishing to make ends meet. Over time, with growing demand, the space today has commercial investors, migrant labour who may not be from coastal areas and has grown into an industry which has all types of vessels from yachts managed by corporates to small 10-seater boats owned by a local owner offering dolphin watching as an experience,” Mitra explain.

“Because a large yacht has a bigger footprint than a smaller boat, but multiple small boats may have a bigger footprint than one large yacht, how do you decide what is ecotourism and what is not?,” she asks. “The advantage of applying an ecotourism lens is to investigate these issues. The disadvantage is that unless you understand all the drivers of tourism in the state and factor all of that in when you are developing an agenda for ecotourism, it may become greenwashing.”

Many people have expressed concerns over the potential human-wildlife conflict, but there’s also acknowledgment that ecotourism can open the door to opportunities: People will get to learn about  one of the world’s ten “hottest biodiversity hotspots”. There will be more funding to support the region. This  may bring in more employment for the adjacent villages. It will bring about a platform to highlight a Goa unknown to the world.

But there’s another side to it as well. Gerard de Souza, a state correspondent for newspaper Hindustan Times, helped me understand the political aspect. During our conversation, he explained, “explained this through a socio-political lens.

“What the minister hasn’t said upfront is that several politically connected people have invested or are making plans for venturing into eco-tourism-related projects,” he tells me. “Abhijat Parrikar, son of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, saw his plans for an eco-tourism project in Netravali while Pratapsingh Rane, father to the minister, has also sought permission to set up wooden cottages at the Querim village atop a hill known as Vagheri, a known tiger stomping ground in Goa.”

The history of Goa amply demonstrates that political morals and governing ethics have contributed to the rising public distrust when it comes to eco-tourism programs. The state authorities in Goa have a history of passing unvetted regulations that destroyed acres of green cover in the past. Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has shown marked reluctance in abiding by independent scrutiny of its forests. Goa minister Vishwajeet Rane’s apparent mocking of environmentalists has naturally stirred a public uneasiness.

When I returned to Panaji, the headquarters of the North Goa district—a destination at the crossroads of all sanctuaries making it a perfect place to learn about the interplay between hinterland and tourism—I started getting up early to explore and learn about the nature around the surrounding Campal Forest Department on the Mandovi River. One day, on an expedition to learn the name of the sweet-smelling trees inside the encampment, I met Jivan, a 49-year-old forest officer who’s been working here for the past 11 years.

Jivan can recall the scientific name of all the unique flora and fauna that are found in Goa. “The depletion of forestland is nothing new,” he tells me, “but if ecotourism can start the conversation about sustainability and evoke a sense of responsibility among people, it is worth a shot.”

I thought about our conversation on my way back to the homestay I’d rented near Miramar Beach, a gently arching beach that forms the longest stretch of coastline in Goa. It’s one of the most idyllic, palm-lined strips, and home to many people who work and live in the surrounding protected habitats. But when I stepped onto the beach, I could see a white line of plastic formed where the bluest of waves reach the limit.

I’d arranged to take part in a beach clean-up with a group and the next morning, met Varun Gopal, a 43-year-old local guide and fisherman. Following a summer of political unrest sparked by the unethical cutting of trees in Mollem National Park , he decided to gather willing tourists for beach cleaning projects across Goa. It was both a personal mission and a demonstration of protest, something Mr Gopal, who grew up playing in the forests, hoped to model for the young generation. While the nine of us met as strangers, our discussions on modern travel and shared ideas about climate-friendly tourism brought us closer,  so much so that we decided to merge our itineraries. In an odd reversal of events at the beach, which is often the end goal for those who are travelling here, became our beginning.

Mr Gopal handed us all a ‘grabber’, a tool specifically designed to pick up litter in and under the sand, and introduced us to the task at hand: Walk six feet away from the beach and stop plastic waste at the source—basically, pick up anything and everything that can pollute the waters. “I don’t think we can control the outcome or influence it, but we can be responsible even in a thick fog of unknown,” he told us. “The scientific community is scared but loud, and so are the conservationists who failed to get their voice heard, and people like me who grew up here.”

I asked myself if I’d have understood the true significance of the hinterland if I weren’t allowed to go in and explore myself. I can see how camping among wildlife or trekking inside lush forest will result in an uptick in footfall. It also seems to be a fiscally responsible idea—unlocking a different part of Goa to people while simultaneously monetizing the existing hotspots—to explore undeveloped territories which can benefit regional tourism.

Inspiring the crowd to learn more about the Western Ghats will also alleviate pressure from beaches, allowing the government to act on impending issues such as marine pollution. As defined by the International Ecotourism Society, “responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” can be a powerful force. But the challenge is to build a system free of commercial and conservation bias, a system that is currently unsustainable in India.

As we begin the clean-up, Varun reminds us If, “This is not just to save the marine ecosystem. It’s to ensure that the ‘eco’ in eco-tourism doesn’t become a myth.” And it’s exactly that—preserving the eco credentials of any project, no matter who’s involved or high up it goes—that should be at the heart of any initiatives in Goa, or anywhere.

*** Adventure.com  strives to be a low-emissions publication, and we are working to reduce our carbon emissions where possible. Emissions generated by the movements of our staff and contributors are carbon offset through our parent company, Intrepid. You can visit our  sustainability page  and read our  Contributor Impact Guidelines  for more information. While we take our commitment to people and planet seriously, we acknowledge that we still have plenty of work to do, and we welcome all feedback and suggestions from our readers. You can contact us any time at  [email protected] . Please allow up to one week for a response. 

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Sneha Chakraborty is a multimedia journalist and photographer based between India and the Netherlands with a focus on ethical explorations, culinary jaunts, and stories at the intersection of sustainability and adventure tourism. Her work has appeared in Lonely Planet, National Geographic Traveller, Vogue and other publications.

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Home » Focus » THE POPULARITY OF GOA IS UNDER THREAT DUE TO MASS TOURISM AND POLLUTION GROWTH

THE POPULARITY OF GOA IS UNDER THREAT DUE TO MASS TOURISM AND POLLUTION GROWTH

• Rajesh Ghadge
• , March 8, 2017

IS Goa losing its popularity as one of the best tourism destination in the world? The most important CONCERN WHICH needS to be ADDRESSED With the inflow of around 4 million tourists into this tiny beautiful state AND HALF THE POPULATION (APPROX 2 MILLION) the popularity of once considers to be the most romantic destination is now under threat. Goa occupies hardly 1% of India’s landmass but yet the charm of GOA and hospitable nature of its local inhabitants draws HUGE NUMBERS OF tourists to enjoy the sheer beauty of this place.

Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for over four centuries and as a result of that, the custom and culture of this tiny state has the deep impact of western influence. This makes the tiny state equally popular amongst the Indian as well as foreigners. The huge volume of tourists pours down to Goa because of its natural beauty and the highly hospitable people. Goa has long been seen as an ideal holiday destination spot. But then why does this most sought after holiday destination is losing its popularity is the most important question before all the major stakeholders of the tourism industry in Goa.

According to the Claude Alvares, one of the well-known environmentalists and social worker of Goa, nothing good has been done by the government of Goa to maintain the beauty and integrity of this tiny state. According to him, everything has come from the handwork of a community expert in the maintenance of rice fields, paddies, khazan systems, and a low intensive lifestyle that is underscored by the spirit of susegad   (taking it easy) one of the key components of a tourist industry. “The result of these efforts over decades is that the Goa region looks like a painting and the local artists who created it have really never bothered about how many people came to see it and enjoy it,” states Mr. Alvares in one of his articles in NDTV  

Mr. Alvares feels that the government of Goa has remained unimpressed. Over the years, it has tried zealously not to build on those assets, but to grind them to dust. Not surprising, every single project conceived by the government or by companies or compradors have chewed up some part of Goa or another. The forests have been assaulted by mining, led by Vedanta, headquartered in England. But almost every 5-star hotel on the beach has been put up by operators and chains from outside the state. Each has taken down parts of the pristine beach system and crammed it with their imported fantasias in concrete, disdainful of local architectural designs.

Based on the article originally written in the French News Media Le Monde  and subsequently published in the English language in The Guardian  Before managing the Barracuda diving club in Goa’s Sun Village resort, Venkatesh Charloo worked on a trading desk in a Hong Kong bank. After watching a Cousteau film he decided to quit the world of finance and get into deep sea diving. Now, 15 years later, he is very angry. “The islands of Goa are covered in garbage, and there are fewer and fewer fish.” Part of his job is to clean up diving sites at the beginning of the tourist season. Goa survived four centuries of Portuguese colonization and an influx of hippies in the 1960s, but today it is threatened by mass tourism. More than 4 million tourists visit this small state in southwest India every year, twice as many as 10 years ago, with a local population of just 2 million. National Geographic has ranked Goa’s beaches among the worst in the world.

THE PROBLEMS

According to the sources, the degradation process of Goan beaches started back in the last few decades. The report published by the NIO claimed that levels of potentially dangerous bacteria, such as salmonella, rose sharply between 2002 and 2007. The report, published in July 2010 in the journal Ecological Indicators, concluded that increasingly strong concentrations of faecal coliform and other pathogenic bacteria in the coastal waters were a threat to the environment as well as to human health. In some places, swimming could lead to disease. At the mouth of the Mandovi river, currents sweep sewage down from the hotels, along with residue from pesticides used by the farmers of the country, and the sediment from nearby mines. Underwater visibility has been considerably reduced. “You can’t see further than your own nose now,” said Ajay Patil, a deep-sea diving instructor.

The cows lying on the sand under the parasols is a usual scene. They are, after all, considered to be sacred, and allowed by virtue but beer bottles and plastic bags littered on most of the beaches gives a real horrible look to the pristine beaches of Goa. The department of tourism trying hard to make Goa’s reputation as a romantic destination which is being advertised across the national and international media appeal the travellers to come with their wives and girlfriend again. Environmental activists condemn the apathy of the local authorities. “The government wants to build a five-star hotel along every mile, but it can’t even build wastewater treatment plants,” said Claude Alvares director of an environmental action group, Goa Foundation.

The construction of more than 2,600 hotels has also destroyed the khazans, an ancient network of dykes and wetlands that drew off sea water when levels rose too high and protected the land from flooding. Another form of pollution, not seen on the beaches, is household refuse. A few kilometers inland, plastic waste floats on monsoon-flooded fields and mounds of garbage are stacked up along the roads. “It’s difficult to find available land to set up a waste processing plant,” quoted by Mr. Swapnil Naik, who was the director of state tourism department then. The sarpanch, or village mayors, complain about being landed with the problem. “They consider it a degrading task, not suited to their status,” said a local, who does the rounds at night to prevent people from throwing garbage on his village’s land.

Goa and Goans need to understand one thing that, it is not easy to attract only high-end tourists to the state all the time as most of the tourists coming to the coastal state are the backpackers. although recently large numbers of Russian and east European tourists have been arriving on charter flights, and restaurant menus are now translated into Russian and Goa Tourism department had a plans of building the golf courses and amusement parks to attract a superior clientele and the same was quoted by the then director of state tourism department Mr. Swapnil Naik.

THE SOLUTION

The best solution according to the sources would be, to relieve the pressure on the beaches by developing inland tourism during the off-season in the monsoon. Goa has a fascinating architectural heritage from its Portuguese colonisers and has many less-known sites of natural beauty, such as waterfalls deep in the forests. Villagers can now get subsidies for opening small hotels in these new tourist destinations. It may be recalled that when Mr. Swapnil Naik was the Director of Tourism he had proposed the development of inland waterways and by now few things have put back into the place but still not to the expectations. Although Mr. Alvares do not agree to this since according to him, The government’s idea of development is to open ever more hotels, for more tourists and more money, but at this rate, we’re heading straight into the wall. According to Mr. Alvares who is quite nostalgic for the 1960s. “At least the hippies were environmentally friendly.”

SOURCE: VARIOUS SOURCES | IMAGE SOURCE

NOTE: The information in this article has been compiled from the various sources and all the quotes have kept untouched to retain the ingredients of the subject. In case you have any additional information or you find any lapses please to write to the editor on [email protected]    

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India’s first state to launch ​Regenerative Tourism

Sustainable tourism and Regenerative tourism share the overarching goal of ​minimizing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, local communities, ​and cultures.

However, they differ in their specific approaches and ultimate objectives.

Key distinctions between

S ustainable tourism & Regenerative tourism

Philosophy ​and ​Approach

Sustainable Tourism

Regenerative Tourism

This approach seeks to ​maintain the status quo by ​balancing economic, social, ​and environmental ​considerations. It aims to meet ​the needs of the present ​without compromising the ​ability of future generations to ​meet their own needs. ​Sustainable tourism focuses ​on minimizing negative ​impacts and often involves ​conservation, responsible ​resource use, and community ​engagement.

In contrast, regenerative tourism ​goes beyond sustainability by ​actively seeking to improve and ​restore ecosystems, ​communities, and cultures. The ​regenerative approach aims to ​leave a positive impact, ​contributing to the well-being of ​destinations and fostering ​resilience. It emphasizes the ​restoration and revitalization of ​natural and cultural assets.

Local ​Community ​Engagement

Sustainable tourism typically ​involves community ​engagement and benefit-​sharing, ensuring that local ​communities benefit ​economically and socially from ​tourism. However, the focus ​may be on maintaining a ​balance rather than actively ​contributing to community ​empowerment and ​regeneration.

Regenerative tourism places a ​strong emphasis on community ​empowerment and participation. ​It seeks to involve local ​communities in decision-making ​processes, encourages ​entrepreneurship, and aims to ​leave a lasting positive impact on ​the social fabric of destinations.

Environmental ​Conservation

Sustainable tourism aims to ​minimize the environmental ​impact of travel and tourism ​activities. This may include ​practices such as responsible ​waste management, energy ​conservation, and biodiversity ​protection.

Regenerative tourism not only ​minimizes negative impacts but ​actively works towards restoring ​and enhancing ecosystems. This ​approach may involve ​reforestation projects, habitat ​restoration, and other initiatives ​aimed at improving the overall ​health of natural environments.

Cultural ​Preservation

Sustainable tourism ​recognizes the importance of ​preserving local cultures and ​traditions. Efforts are made to ​ensure that tourism activities ​do not lead to cultural erosion ​or exploitation.

Regenerative tourism takes ​cultural preservation a step ​further by actively contributing to ​the revitalization of local cultures. ​This may involve supporting ​traditional arts and crafts, ​promoting cultural exchanges, ​and actively engaging tourists in ​meaningful interactions with local ​communities.

Long-Term ​Impact

Sustainable tourism seeks to ​maintain a balance over the ​long term, ensuring that the ​impacts of tourism do not ​compromise the well-being of ​future generations.

Regenerative tourism goes ​beyond maintaining a balance; it ​strives to leave destinations ​better off than before. The ​ultimate goal is to contribute ​positively to the regeneration of ​ecosystems, communities, and ​cultures, creating a lasting and ​positive legacy.

Tourism has long been a double-edged sword, contributing to economic development ​while often causing environmental degradation and cultural erosion. In recent years, a ​paradigm shift towards more sustainable practices has emerged, and one such ​approach gaining prominence is regenerative tourism. Unlike conventional tourism, ​which may exploit natural resources and local cultures, regenerative tourism seeks to ​restore and revitalize destinations, leaving them better off than before.

Principles of Regenerative Tourism

Community ​Empowerment

Regenerative tourism prioritizes local ​communities by involving them in ​decision-making processes and ​ensuring they benefit economically ​and socially from tourism. This ​approach fosters a sense of ownership ​among residents, leading to more ​responsible tourism practices.

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Preservation of Natural ​Resources

Instead of depleting natural resources, ​regenerative tourism aims to enhance ​and protect them. Sustainable ​practices, such as responsible waste ​management, energy conservation, ​and biodiversity preservation, help ​minimize the environmental footprint of ​tourism activities.

Cultural Respect and ​Preservation

Regenerative tourism values and ​respects local cultures, seeking to ​preserve traditions and heritage. ​Engaging with communities in a ​meaningful way, promoting cultural ​exchanges, and supporting local ​artisans are integral to this approach.

Holistic Planning and ​Development

Regenerative tourism involves ​comprehensive planning that ​considers the long-term impact of ​tourism on all aspects of a destination​—environmental, social, and ​economic. Sustainable infrastructure ​development and land-use planning ​are crucial components.

of Regenerative Tourism

Economic Resilience

By involving local communities in ​tourism initiatives, regenerative ​tourism contributes to economic ​resilience. Income generated from ​tourism is more evenly distributed, ​creating a more stable and ​sustainable economic foundation for ​communities.

Environmental Conservation

Through sustainable practices and a ​commitment to conservation, ​regenerative tourism helps protect ​ecosystems and biodiversity. This ​ensures that the natural attractions ​that draw tourists remain intact for ​future generations.

Cultural Enrichment

Regenerative tourism supports ​cultural preservation, fostering pride ​and a sense of identity among local ​communities. This not only benefits ​residents but also provides a richer ​and more authentic experience for ​tourists.

Social Inclusivity

This approach encourages inclusive ​and responsible tourism, making ​destinations accessible to a broader ​range of travellers. By breaking down ​barriers, regenerative tourism ​promotes diversity and inclusivity ​within the tourism industry.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While regenerative tourism presents a promising path towards sustainable travel, ​challenges such as resistance to change, lack of awareness, and the need for ​coordinated efforts among stakeholders remain. Governments, businesses, and ​tourists alike must actively participate in fostering a regenerative approach to tourism. ​The future of travel lies in our ability to prioritize regenerative practices, creating a ​harmonious balance between economic development and environmental and cultural ​preservation.

Five priorities of the Goa Tourism Roadmap ​that are woven into regenerative tourism.

Green ​tourism

Greening the ​tourism sector ​for a ​sustainable, ​responsible ​and resilient ​tourism sector

Digitalization

Harnessing the power ​of digitalization to ​promote ​competitiveness, ​inclusion and ​sustainability in the ​tourism sector

Empowering ​youth with ​skills for jobs ​and ​entrepreneurs​hip in the ​tourism sector

Tourism ​MSMEs

Nurturing ​tourism MSMEs, ​startups and the ​private sector to ​unleash ​innovation and ​dynamism in the ​tourism sector

Destination ​management

Rethinking the ​strategic ​management of ​destinations ​towards a holistic ​approach that ​delivers on the ​SDGs.

To help framing the relationship between ​tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals ​(SDGs) in the development of the current ​Roadmap, a survey among G20 members and ​guest countries was conducted. The answers ​helped to identify the SDGs which tourism was ​considered to impact the most:

SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth;

SDG 9: Industry, innovation, and infrastructure;

SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities;

SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production;

SDG 17: Partnerships for the goals.

A set of ten cross-cutting key enablers have been identified by the Goa Tourism ​Roadmap based on a systems level analysis of recommendations from reports, surveys, ​case studies and best practices shared by practitioners across the tourism sector.

1. Working towards climate action and environmental ​protection and related international cooperation;

2. Equitable economic models to promote inclusive ​tourism and empower vulnerable groups, such as youth, ​women, Indigenous Peoples and persons with ​disabilities;

3. Sustained public-private-community partnerships, ​including employers’ and workers’ organizations, to ​develop more innovative and sustainable tourism ​initiatives;

4. Visitors as key stakeholders to help transform the ​sector towards sustainability;

5. Holistic destination management to help the sector ​adapt to today’s challenges;

6. Upskilling, reskilling and new skilling tourism actors, ​focussing on vulnerable groups (such as youth, women, ​Indigenous Peoples and persons with disabilities), as ​well as MSMEs, to reduce inequalities, foster inclusion ​and social justice;

7. Strengthening measurement, monitoring, and ​reporting to better understand and manage the impact ​and interdependences of tourism on its three dimensions ​– economic, social and environmental;

8. Consistent knowledge sharing between traditional and ​non-traditional actors to bridge knowledge gaps and ​accelerate progress within the sector;

9. Innovative approaches to meet the SDGs; and

10. Long-term forward planning to foster tourism ​resilience.

Spiritual tourism intersects with regenerative ​tourism and substantially contributes to it. ​Spiritual tourism can play a significant role in ​regenerative tourism by promoting a holistic ​approach to travel that focuses on the well-being ​of individuals, communities, and the ​environment.

Cultural Exchange and ​Understanding

Spiritual tourism often involves visiting ​sacred sites, participating in rituals, ​and engaging with local communities. ​This fosters cultural exchange, ​understanding, and respect between ​travellers and host communities, ​promoting a sense of unity and ​shared humanity.

Community Empowerment

Many spiritual tourism destinations ​are in rural or less economically ​developed areas. By attracting ​visitors, these areas can experience ​economic benefits. Responsible ​spiritual tourism initiatives prioritize ​community engagement and ​empowerment, ensuring that local ​residents have an active role in ​tourism activities and can benefit from ​the economic opportunities it brings.

Spiritual tourism often involves visits ​to natural and serene environments. ​Sustainable and regenerative tourism ​practices associated with spiritual ​travel can help preserve these ​ecosystems. Conservation efforts and ​responsible tourism practices are ​integral to maintaining the spiritual ​and natural integrity of these ​destinations.

Well-being and Mindfulness

Spiritual tourism often emphasizes ​personal well-being, mindfulness, and ​self-discovery. Travelers seeking ​spiritual experiences are more likely ​to appreciate and respect the ​environment they are in. This ​mindfulness can translate into ​responsible tourism practices, such ​as reducing waste, conserving ​resources, and supporting sustainable ​initiatives.

Local Traditions and Crafts

Spiritual tourism encourages ​travellers to engage with local ​traditions, arts, and crafts. This helps ​in preserving and promoting the ​unique cultural heritage of the ​destination. Travelers may also ​contribute to local economies by ​purchasing handmade products, ​supporting local artisans, and ​participating in cultural workshops.

Educational Opportunities

Spiritual tourism often involves ​learning about ancient philosophies, ​religious practices, and cultural ​traditions. This educational aspect ​can lead to a greater understanding of ​the interconnectedness of all things ​and foster a sense of responsibility ​towards the environment and local ​communities.

Mindful Tourism Practices

Spiritual tourism often attracts ​individuals seeking more meaningful ​and mindful travel experiences. This ​can translate into a lower ​environmental impact, as travellers ​are more likely to choose eco-friendly ​accommodations, adopt responsible ​travel behaviours, and support ​businesses that prioritize ​sustainability.

Promotion of Responsible ​Tourism

Spiritual tourism can act as a catalyst ​for responsible tourism practices. As ​travellers seek deeper connections ​and experiences, there is a growing ​awareness of the need to protect and ​regenerate the places they visit. This ​can lead to a shift in tourism trends ​towards more sustainable and ​regenerative models.

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Communidade and a transforming Goa- impact of tourism

 An inquiry into how traditional institutional structures are stressed by the tourist industry.

Economic growth and social changes are major factors contributing to Goa's urbanisation. Today the Goan economy is hugely dependent on tourism. Its distinctive lifestyle and cultural blend attract many from the rest of India and abroad. While the domestic tourist, comprising 80% of all tourists, comes to Goa to experience a different culture, “international tourists visit Goa purely for the natural environment, the sun and beaches.” (Sawkar 1998) These tourists also look for a more “local and variegated experience”. (Noronha 2002) Tourism became the key sector in the development of Goa due to its potential in generating income. The seasonal nature of the tourism industry has opened doors for employment, especially among unskilled workers. Tourism was also preferred over industrial development and mining as it was comparatively perceived as less polluting. However, a lack of “awareness and understanding existed back then among planners about the processes of the life support systems of the coastal environment and the interactive roles played by each component.” (Noronha 1998) Tourism began expanding along the coast rapidly and uncontrollably. There is a visible burden on the infrastructure and environment such as the coastal aquifers, dunes and mangroves.Tourism has promoted urbanism and drastically changed land-use patterns.

Historically the Goan village lands were divided into three categories based on productivity.

1. Gaunkaria Lands “The largest and most productive, called Gaunkaria land, was annually or biannually auctioned among the gaunkar households and used for their livelihood and private interests.” (Jacob 2019)

2. Devachebhat or God’s Land “The second type known as Devachebhat or god’s land was used to cover costs arising from religious expenditures – maintenance of temples, the livelihood of priests, temple servers and performance of rituals of the village as a whole.” (Jacob 2019)

3. Communal Land “The last type was the communal land reserved for specific products such as the Khazans. The Gaunkars were recognized as the only rightful collective owners of the communal lands. However, the communal land was also leased to a Mundkar and its earrings were used for village clerks, artisans, labour force to name a few. The earnings from the land were used to finance public works and generate additional income for the village community.” (Jacob, 2019)

“A survey conducted around 1961 indicated that the Comunidades owned 34.9% to 85.5% of the cultivable land in Goa. They owned 200-400 hectares of land in the coastal tracts and 2-40 % of 14,968 hectares of land. At the time of liberation, an average Comunidade distributed 16 % of its earnings as dividends. They spend 22 % on administrative expenses, 19 % on land tax or quiet rent, 16 % on extraordinary expenses, 6 % on religious and social work, 2 % on the amortisation of loans and payment of interests and 19 % on miscellaneous expenditures” (D’Cruz, 2005).

The khazans were sustainable ecosystem agrarian modules that operated on tidal, hydro and solar energy. The system integrated agriculture, aquaculture and salt panning. They were practised on reclaimed coastal wetlands, mangrove areas and salt marshes. This system was designed to be sensitive to indigenous biodiversity. (Sonak, 2014). The surplus from these harvests was enjoyed by the gaunkars of the Comunidades. The Khazans faced a major blow when the people began fleeing to Novas Conquistas. With no one to take care of the bunds, the land became infertile with the growth of weeds and jungle wood. The decline in agricultural produce meant a decline in commerce. Commercial establishments were shut down and economic life was paralysed since the taxes were no longer paid. With increasing expenses the Portuguese were obliged to put an end to religious persecution and call back the refugees. Once the villagers returned the Comunidade lands were back in their former glory and the commerce prospered and the ecosystem was restored. Today Khazan lands are again facing a major blow due to tourism and urbanism. These Agro-ecosystems are constantly transforming to cater to the tourism industry and this is predominantly visible in the Coastal areas. There has been an increase in land values along the coast. “Hills which were earlier green and untouched, have today become closely coveted by realtors and land speculators. Fishing and agricultural-based villages are turned into concrete jungles” (Noronha, 1999).

The tourism sector has hardly benefited 10 % of Goans (Noronha, 1999) who are either small-scale entrepreneurs or large corporates. Hinterlands are at an increased risk of being exposed to tourism-based activities as well. The rest is enjoyed by international companies who purchase lands to construct hotels, resorts etc. There is a constant battle against the degradation of the coastline due to a lack of long-term planning. Even though the state government has sufficient power, it fails to implement sustainable and eco-friendly development measures. Corruption and misappropriation are evident in the real estate market. Village panchayats have failed to regulate these activities. Building regulations are being violated and locals are in a constant battle to protect their environment. There have been numerous protests and strong anti-tourism activism widespread today.

Traditionally, the gaunkars were legally qualified to take delivery of the ordinary and extraordinary works related to the villages. The gaunkars also had the exclusive right to execute these works. The profit from the lease of fields and other properties was quite substantial because they were sub-leased. The Gaunkars also shared their surplus with their Kullacharis when they provided their service. After the Portuguese rule, a new set of members who were non-residents became a part of the community by purchasing the right to share in the annual surplus. They were known as Khuntkars. They were only allowed to have a share of the surplus and not the privileges of the gaunkars i.e “ the right of voto - e voz - the right of management and the right to bid in the lease-auction of the properties and that of the works to be carried out” (Periera 1978).

From the 1970s, the government-sponsored land reforms and the Comunidades lost most of their control over the paddy and cashew cultivation which were the two important agricultural assets in the Old Conquest. (Axelrod 1998). From being auctioned triennially to the highest bidder, the Comunidade lands were auctioned by a 25-year and then later a 99-year lease. This in a way made the bidder a permanent owner which has, in turn, affected rural development. The legal structure overrides the tradition where one would pay for and have access to use the land. The owners today no longer pay taxes. Along with the intervention of the panchayath and the new regulations the Comunidades fail to perform the duties they were previously obliged to. (D’Cruz, 2005)  “After liberation, many dominant gaunkars immigrated. But, even they enjoy the zones is absentia. Many outsiders came to settle down in the villages.” (Gomes, 1996). The change in land use, land cover, property rights, and politics along with population movement affects the relationship between people and the ecosystem. Goans are being excluded from the opportunity to make decisions for their environment and economy affecting not only their lives but of the environment.

Today agriculture is no longer the main source of income and is performed by a few. Conventionally, the gaunkars valued their organic and historical relationship with the land and its resources. Today it's no longer the same. Tourism and Urbanisation have led to economic development and diversification. But along the way, Goa is losing its identity. What started as an agrarian society with a deep understanding of nature, has turned its back on environmental issues and is focused on an inherently unstainable route toward tourism and economic development. There is a need to understand the issues of land use, planning, and community participation in policy-making for tourism. There is a need for sustainable tourism development which best suits goa and does not change the identity of Goa. The Comunidade system provided an opportunity for the community to take care of its ecosystem while reaping its benefits. It integrates the locals in the decision-making for its environment. 

Bibliography

(1)  https://geoportal.natmo.gov.in/search/field_topic/goa-532

(2) https://www.architecturaldigest.in/content/goa-francis-newton-souza-art-exhibition/

(3) https://geoportal.natmo.gov.in/search/field_topic/goa-532

(4)  (Jacob, 2019)

(5)  https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.alamy.com%2Fstock-photo-goa-india-market-scene-16th-century-during-the-portuguese-colonisation-83333007.html&psig=AOvVaw2O-zxj1-VCaZ9pbmQy2ApS&ust=1651842251989000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CA0QjhxqFwoTCODK_P61yPcCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

(6)  https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgeoportal.natmo.gov.in%2Fsearch%2Ffield_state%2Fgoa-60&psig=AOvVaw0fGcIc9kArQXBAo3xfcbHz&ust=1654258922746000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CA0QjhxqFwoTCJjP1ujgjvgCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD

(7)  https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgeoportal.natmo.gov.in%2Fsearch%2Ffield_topic%2Fgoa-532&psig=AOvVaw0fGcIc9kArQXBAo3xfcbHz&ust=1654258922746000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CA0QjhxqFwoTCJjP1ujgjvgCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

Axelrod, Paul, and Michelle A. Fuerch. “Portuguese Orientalism and the Making of the Village Communities of Goa.” Ethnohistory 45, no. 3 (1998): 439–76. https://doi.org/10.2307/483320 .

Pereira,Rui Gomes  “Gaukaria the old village association”. A. Gomes Pereira. 1978

Sharon D’Cruz, and Avinash V. Raikar. “Democratic Management of Common Property in Goa: From ‘Gaonkarias’ and ‘Comunidades’ to Gram Sabhas.” Economic and Political Weekly 41, no. 5 (2006): 439–45. http://www.jstor.org/stable/4417767 .

J.F. Gomes, Olivinho. “Village Goa: A Study of Goan Social Structure and Change”

S.Chand (G/L) & Company Ltd; 2nd edition (1 October 1996)

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Tourism and the Environment Case Studies on Goa, India, and the Maldives

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• Jun 20, 2022

Impact Of Tourism On Goa

Updated: Jun 14, 2023

The stress-busting vacation hub Goa is under severe environmental and social threat.

There is no denying that Goa's splendid and scenic beaches, sun and sand, and the architectural splendour of its Goan temples, churches, and Old Portuguese houses have made it a favourite tourist destination for travellers from around the world. Under Portuguese rule for more than four centuries, Goa's geographical boundaries such as the Sahyadri range and the tidal rivers have attracted people and created a unique identity for its citizens. With its long history of meeting races, cultures, and religions of East and West over the centuries, Goa offers a multifaceted and distinct way of life where people of all religions live in peace with each other. A blend of Portuguese and Roman influences, the Goan cuisine is full of flavour and mouthwatering. Goan people are friendly and hospitable, aiding this state in truly becoming a ‘Tourist's Paradise’.

Currently, tourism is the state's most important economic activity and trade, hotels, and tourism have a multiplier effect on the local economy. In terms of income, output, employment, and foreign exchange generation, the tourism sector has contributed to the growth of the service sector-driven economy. Tourism contributes 18 percent of Goa's net state domestic product, and 14 percent of foreign currency earned in the country.

Today’s picture of Goa is a true marvel of the process of globalisation. However, this cradle of intercultural mingling and coastal aesthetics is not hidden from the damaging effects humans tend to bring everywhere they go. Some of th e wounding effects of the thriving tourism industry of the state have been the commercialisation of tradition, dilution of identity, destruction of heritage sites, etc. In addition to this, there has been a dark culture of substance abuse, human trafficking and alcoholism germinating in the state, among other things. Sadly, Goa is frequently wrongly portrayed as the place for cheap, easy access to alcohol, drugs, and s ex - and many tourists flock on over to the state simply because of this. Due to the incorrect portrayal of Goa as an idyllic holiday destination for sun, sand, and sex, the image of women there is negatively affected. When tourism is expected to help women from host regions advance socially and increase employment opportunities, the reality is different. Observations by the Centre for Responsible Tourism in Goa showed that 31.3% of women working in the state tourism sector feel unsafe at their workplace.

(Also Read: The True Cost of Luxury )

Because the tourist sector tries to maximise its commercial interests at the expense of the environment, fast and unregulated tourism expansion has caused permanent environmental harm. Some of the major issues of Goa tourism include over-utilized waste disposal facilities, dumping of solid and liquid wastes, insufficient implementation of deterrent measures against beach pollution, water bodies, and environmentally sensitive regions, and violations of coastal zone control. The carrying capacity of Goa's water resources has been exceeded, and tourism-related activities have impacted the water resources in several coastal places. Uncontrolled marine tourism and water sports have irreversibly harmed coastal ecosystems. Tourism imposes a strain on transportation infrastructure, and the present infrastructure is insufficient to accommodate the travel needs of both tourists and resident communities. Littering and waste production have become big issues. The current trash management system is insufficient, and local administrations have been trying to handle the increasing rubbish created by visitors. In Goa, there is no mechanism in place to manage and recycle massive amounts of liquid and solid garbage created by the tourism sector. Overbuilding and extensive paving of shorelines have also resulted in serious habitat destruction and disruption, such as the destruction of nesting areas for sea turtles in certain beach areas in Pernem, such as Morjim, and Galgibag, one of the most famous nesting grounds in Canaconataluka.

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The government of Goa released the Goa Tourism Policy in 2019 to put the pedal to the metal of the objectives of the Goa Tourism Master Plan which was released in 2016. Under this policy, the government aims at making tourism in Goa environmentally and socially sustainable, i.e., ensuring the proper promotion of ecologically safe and environmentally conscious tourism infrastructure and making the tourism sector safe for the tourists and the residents. Other than this, the state has made conscious efforts towards minimising emissions. A great example of this is the influx of electronic buses being injected into the public transport system of the state.

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Aside from this, NGOs can play a significant role in mobilising the concerns of the local communities with regard to their physical and social environment and putting pressure on the institutions that can amend the harmful activities. Thus, NGOs need more governmental support since they are key to voicing the demands of the grass-root level population.

That being said, more stringent, guided and planned steps need to be taken by the government in order to preserve the ecological, cultural and social integrity of this coastal state. Tourists can actually help by adhering to the guidelines that are there set in place, and by making the conscious decision of not going to the state during peak seasons.

Achrekar, G. (2020, October 31). Tourism Development in Goa: Trends, Importance and Challenges. International Journal of Multidisciplinary in Management and Tourism , 3 (1).

https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ijmmt/article/view/247618

Falleiro, S. P. (2015). The Economic and Socio-Cultural Balance Sheet of Tourism in Goa: Future Options. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications , 5 (2). https://www.ijsrp.org/research-paper-0215/ijsrp-p3815.pdf

Government of Goa. (2020). Goa Tourism Policy 2020 .

https://www.goa.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Goa-Tourism-Policy-2020.pdf

Salgaonkar, S. P., & Salgaonkar, P. (2017). ROLE OF PANCHAYAT IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: INSIGHTS FROM GOA. International Journal of Tourism and Travel , 10 (1).

https://www.iittmjournal.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IITTM-Jrl.Vol_.10-2017.pdf#page=61

Venugopalan, T. (2021). Tourism and Sustainability in India –Exploring Sustainability of Goa Tourism from the Perspective of Local Community. European Journal of Business and Management Research , 6 (3).

https://www.ejbmr.org/index.php/ejbmr/article/view/852

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