Ecotourism aims to conserve the environment and improve the well-being of the local people.
“Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” (TIES, 1990)
You may find that you are aware of your carbon footprint whilst in your home country, regularly recycling, using as little electricity as possible and being cautious with water waste. Unfortunately, many of us do not take the habits attained in our everyday, to our week away, fun in the sun holiday.
More and more people of an eco-conscious nature, are looking into ways to improve not just their backyards but the backyards of the places they visit. For these travellers we have compiled the ultimate guide to help you make eco-conscious decisions on activities and accommodation.
There are a number of activities that the environmentally conscious traveller can partake in:
One such place is Permaculture Research Foundation Malta a voluntary organisation, whose aim is to preserve and maintain food security, agro-forestry and creative ecology. Visit the Bahrija Oasis, where visitors can get back to nature, while getting involved in a number of activities from harvesting fresh produce or cooking on a fire while observing the stars through telescopes. Here you will have the opportunity to learn more about sustainable living, in a relaxing environment.
Permaculture Malta - Bahrija Oasis (MyDestination.com)
ECO-GOZO
Visit Malta’s sister Island Gozo, which aims to be an eco-Island by 2020. Improving the local community’s quality of life through education, economic development and social progress brought about by being an eco-Island. Supported by its committed community, aiming to achieve an equilibrium with the environment.
Visit the Eco-Gozo website, register online and send comments of observations that you have personally witnessed, which you feel may improve that Island of Gozo’s environment. Receive updates and get involved with future Eco-Gozo projects.
Eco Activities in Malta (MyDestination.com)
Activities
There are many eco-friendly places of interest, tours and activities that you can enjoy while in Malta. Here is a varied sample to consider:
- Segway Malta
- BirdPark Malta
- Ecobikes Malta
- Malta Falconry Centre
- Ta' Mena Agritourism Estate
- Malta Outdoors
- Merill Eco and Agri Experiences
- Diving Centres
- Country Walks
Accommodation
Malta has some of the very best eco certified establishments and the Malta Tourism Authority runs an internationally recognised ECO Certification scheme. By choosing an ECO certified hotel, you can rest assured of staying in an establishment that moderates their impact on the environment, through lower energy and water consumption, and waste reduction. This corporate responsibility significantly reduces the impact that the tourism industry has on Malta’s environment through sustainable practices. For an updated list of ECO Certified Hotels visit the MTA website.
Copyright © 2014 by My Destination. This article was written by Kathryn James and originally published at My Destination Malta
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