Latest news with #ecotourism
South China Morning Post
a day ago
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Groups warn poorly planned Hong Kong tourism projects will damage eco sites
More than 22 hectares of ecologically valuable land have been damaged in Hong Kong's South Lantau and northwestern New Territories, local groups have found, warning that poorly planned tourism development in these areas will worsen the harm. Advertisement Greenpeace and Liber Research Community, an NGO focusing on development issues, released findings of a survey on Monday that identified 37 cases of land filling, fly-tipping and removal of vegetation, among other man-made causes, that threatened the environment in South Lantau, and Pak Nai and Tsim Bei Tsui in the New Territories. They warned that future tourism development in these areas could worsen the situation, as the government in April invited submissions from the private sector for projects, including two places envisioned to become eco-recreational and ecotourism destinations. 'Although the government has laid out development blueprints, we worry that the ecological damage will become more severe without effective government supervision and ecotourism policies, especially when Hong Kong's ecology is set to become tourism spots,' Greenpeace campaigner Ha Shun-kuen said. 'We worry that ecotourism development will turn into ecological disasters.' Advertisement With the latest focus on island and coastal tourism, the government envisions eco-recreational development in South Lantau, such as a water sports centre and adventure activities.
Forbes
3 days ago
- General
- Forbes
This Underrated Puerto Rico Park Is A Paradise For Birdwatching
Parque Forestal La Marquesa is located in Guaynabo, a Puerto Rican municipality that borders the ... More capital city of San Juan. Home to verdant rainforests, multiple bioluminescent bays and a vast interior mountain range, the island of Puerto Rico boasts a truly staggering amount of destinations for nature lovers. Immediately upon arrival, visitors can set off for the west coast and spend a few days soaking in the sun or hop on a short flight to explore the neighboring islands of Vieques and Culebra—but you don't have to wander far from capital city limits to find a top-tier ecotourism experience. Just a half-hour drive away from the San Juan coastline, Parque Forestal La Marquesa provides guests with a glimpse into the natural splendor of the island, with no shortage of fascinating birds, insects and reptiles to encounter during a visit. After years of inactivity due to damage caused by Hurricane Maria, this beloved eco-park held its grand re-opening on February 9th, 2025, inviting visitors to explore over 250 hectares of pristine forest and winding hiking trails in the verdant mountains of Guaynabo. While guests are welcome to walk their way up to the main building or take the train, the cable car offers particularly stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscapes, spanning roughly ten minutes from start to finish. Upon arrival, visitors can pay a visit to the butterfly house in search of colorful insects or hang out with the resident tortoises—but no trip to La Marquesa is complete without exploring the on-property aviary. Blue-and-yellow macaws are one of more than 20 bird species that can be found in the La Marquesa ... More aviary. While Puerto Rico is renowned for its fascinating native avifauna, La Marquesa is dedicated to showcasing birds from all across the globe, with 25 colorful species calling the park home. Upon entry, guests will be greeted with the cacophony of Indian peacocks mingled with the cries of multiple macaw species, with scarlet and blue-and-yellow varieties all found within the aviary. Looking skyward, birdwatchers can spot cockatoos and conures clinging to the surrounding trees, while the ground plays host to a wide range of creatures spanning from flamingos to the golden pheasant, a dazzling bird that's native to East Asia. Once you've had your fill of the aviary, you can swing by the café to snack on tostones paired with a cold Medalla—but for hardcore birdwatchers, the observation tower is a can't-miss destination. Standing roughly 21 meters tall, the structure provides the perfect perspective for scoping out the many native birds that call the island home. Bananaquits, pearly-eyed thrashers, and Puerto Rican vireos can be found in abundance during a visit, while lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of the Puerto Rican tody, a brilliantly-colored bird that's endemic to the island. The Puerto Rican tody is also referred to as "San Pedrito" across the island. While top-tier birding destinations can be found all across Puerto Rico, La Marquesa offers ample opportunity to spot beloved local species without straying too far from your accommodations. In just one day, visitors can marvel at fascinating avifauna from the Caribbean and far beyond, all while basking in the dazzling landscapes that have earned the island worldwide acclaim. As you plan your next vacation across La Isla del Encanto, be sure to leave some room on the itinerary for a trip to La Marquesa, Guaynabo's crown jewel for ecotourism and outdoor adventure.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Natural Splendor Meets Five-Star Luxury At This Puerto Rico Resort
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is located in Río Grande, a municipality located roughly half an ... More hour east of San Juan. Equipped with lush jungles and pristine beaches alike, the island of Puerto Rico has earned worldwide acclaim as a top destination for a romantic getaway or ecotourism-focused adventure—and few hotels combine both concepts as well as the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. Officially opened in 2010, this palatial property offers ample opportunity to explore the ecosystems that have flourished across the island over the eons, all while enjoying upscale amenities along the way. Whether you're hoping to paddle along verdant mangrove forests, hit the beach for an early birdwatching session or just kick back in the spa with a glass of Champagne in hand, this lavish resort is certain to leave you with lasting memories of the natural splendor of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is renowned for its high level of endemism, with many of its native plant and animal ... More species found nowhere else on earth. With roughly 195 hectares of carefully-cultivated land to explore, the St. Regis Bahia Beach sets itself apart from other hotels as a haven for native wildlife. Amidst the lavish suites and outdoor pools, visitors can immerse themselves in vast swathes of tropical rainforest biome, with complimentary bicycles available to aid in exploration. Along the property's four miles of hiking trails, guests can encounter colorful birds like the green-throated carib, bananaquit and purple gallinule, while the Boathouse & Nature Center is ideal for setting up a lengthy kayaking tour along the mangroves—and to sweeten the deal, the hotel also plays a crucial role in supporting one of Puerto Rico's most iconic native reptiles. Over the past few decades, leatherback sea turtle numbers have struggled due to issues like plastic bag ingestion and fishing net entanglements—and today, the St. Regis Bahia Beach has made it their mission to provide a safe haven for the animals. Over the years, the property has developed a close working relationship with Alma de Bahía, a local conservation organization that's dedicated to preserving the intricate ecosystems across Puerto Rico. Through their presence, the hotel is able to monitor sea turtle nests, offer educational seminars and advocate for the preservation of the neighboring Río Espíritu Santo, with each action contributing to the property's status as the sole Certified Gold Audubon International Signature Sanctuary in all of the Caribbean. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is located at the foothills of El Yunque National Forest, a popular ... More ecotourism destination in Puerto Rico. After indulging in some of the ecotourism opportunities available across the property, guests can unwind with a trip to the hotel's crown jewel of tranquility—namely, the Iridium Spa. While treatment options span from algae vitalizer facials to couples massages, the space also boasts one of the most captivating designs in all of Río Grande, operating within a lush, open-air garden that's packed full of colorful air plants. Both pre and post-treatment, visitors can kick back and enjoy the idyllic ambiance of the venue and make use of some of its added amenities, with steam rooms, a hot tub and a cold plunge all available as well. Beyond the spa, the St. Regis Bahia Beach also comes equipped with a wide range of other amenities designed with relaxation in mind. Golf fans are certain to delight in the property's 18-hole lakeside course, with splendid views of El Yunque National Forest found all throughout the area, while the athletically-inclined are welcome to hit the tennis courts or spend an hour at the fitness center. And for animal lovers in particular, the on-site Sato and Gato Rescue animal sanctuary comes equipped with an abundance of friendly cats and dogs available for adoption, offering an opportunity for guests to leave the hotel with a new best friend in tow after their stay. Puerto Rican cuisine draws influence from West African, Spanish and indigenous Taíno cooking styles ... More and ingredients. While Puerto Rico has given rise to iconic dishes like mofongo and arroz con gandules, the St. Regis Bahia Beach's prowess spans far beyond just the Caribbean, providing a chance for guests to enjoy upscale cuisine found both on the island and far beyond. For mixology buffs, the St. Regis Bar invites guests to sample craft cocktails like the agave-forward Witches' Siesta and the Regis Colada, an upscale take on Puerto Rico's beloved piña colada—but for a truly lavish experience, don't miss out on the daily Champagne sabering session. Taking place each day at 6:00 PM, this time-honored tradition has been a practice within the St. Regis brand since 1904, inviting guests to congregate along the Casa Grande lawn and enjoy a glass of wine bathed in the glow of golden hour. In addition to high-end spirits and masterfully-mixed cocktails, the St. Regis Bahia Beach is also well-versed in the art of fine dining, with several can't-miss restaurants located on the property. Throughout the day, guests can pay a visit to Seagrapes to dine on crispy fish sandwiches, lobster tacos and cast iron-seared grouper in a charming al fresco setting—but when it comes to true gastronomy, it's tough to beat Paros. Equipped with a roster of refined Mediterranean dishes crafted by Executive Chef Diego Ortega, this polished venue provides guests with an opportunity to sample plates like DIY gyros, ladolemono-infused Caribbean lobster and whole grilled branzino, each one brimming with fresh herbs sourced from the on-property garden.
Irish Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Irish Times
Why are Ireland's whales disappearing?
Aren't huge whales always being spotted off Ireland's coast? Skipper Colin Barnes, who gave up commercial fishing in 2001 to set up one of Ireland's first whale -watching businesses, has said the whales have left his search area of ocean off Cork because the sprat they feed on have been fished to near extinction. He could no longer offer 'world-class whale-watching'. This decline contrasts with evidence of a rich mix of cetaceans increasingly found off Ireland including whales, dolphins and porpoises. There is no doubt some are here more frequently due to changes in water temperature caused by global warming or having to go further afield due to overfishing elsewhere. But declaring the territorial waters of Ireland a designated whale and dolphin sanctuary in 1991 helped. This coincided with an increase in numbers following an international ban on killing whales introduced in the 1980s. READ MORE [ 'It's an empty, lifeless sea': Whales leave Cork waters, putting watchers out of business Opens in new window ] It fostered a new form of ecotourism, centring on Ireland's rich marine biodiversity, though some occasionally encroached too close to these magnificent creatures. To see a fin whale, the second largest mammal in the world, almost on our doorstep was awe-inspiring. A humpback whale swims off the coast of west Cork accompanied by a common dolphin in 2021. Photograph: Nick Pfeiffer/Provision Why are sprats so important? Sprats are small fish indigenous to Ireland and a rich protein source for whales but also other cetaceans and seabirds. They dominate the inshore coastline in the Celtic Sea at shallow depths, making them especially vulnerable when trawlers fish for them at spawning stage from October on with no limits on catch. Deep-sea cameraman Ken O'Sullivan has described this as 'ecological suicide' when there is little data on the species, adding that the precautionary principle should apply. Moreover, it is not a commercial catch with most sprat sold to fish farms as fishmeal. [ Shining new light on sperm whales and the importance of Irish waters to them Opens in new window ] Barnes claimed Government apathy and inaction towards fish conservation, however, has led to the demise of the fish by just a handful of large trawlers in Irish waters. What can be done about it? At a recent public meeting in west Cork there were calls for a ban on sprat fishing in inshore coastal waters. In 2019, government efforts to introduce a ban were successfully challenged in the courts. In 2024, a public consultation invited views on introducing the ban again. It attracted more than 5,500 submissions, but campaigners say more than a year on nothing has happened. Minister of State with responsibility for nature and biodiversity, Cork South West TD Christopher O'Sullivan, has accepted the need to 'introduce measures to protect this forage species – not just for whales, but for all the other fish stocks and wildlife that depend on it – to prevent the collapse of an entire food web". Marine ecologists and those in the whale watching business believe a strictly enforced ban cannot come soon enough.
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Ways The Travel Industry Is Addressing Our Climate Crisis
Tourism is not just a victim of climate crisis, it is also one of the heaviest contributors to the problem. We have covered the effects of flying and actions to improve the climate crisis in a previous post. Now we'll give examples of what the tourism industry is doing in other areas of tourism to help visitors maximize the positive and minimize the negative impacts of their trips. Creating More Efficient Cruising Cruise ships use fuel to stay running 24/7, have a significant carbon footprint, and dump wastewater into the oceans. They burn fossil fuels to power their engines and generate electricity, which releases greenhouse gases and other air pollutants into the atmosphere. These emissions can contribute to climate change and have negative health impacts on people living near ports. Philipsburg, St. Maarten: A.C. Wathey Pier easily becomes a busy and crowded pier when numerous ... More cruise ships are in port for the day. Also, noise pollution can have an impact on marine life, and problems are caused by large amounts of tourists arriving for short stays in ecologically fragile ports and exotic destinations. The cruise industry is trying to make things better and more sustainable. More cruise ships are harboring outside of crowded ports, and staying a longer time. Significant initiatives are ongoing to improve the impact of cruising, and reduce its carbon footprint, from increased efficiencies in design and greener fuels to better scrubbing and filtration. There is even a zero-waste cruise ship being developed in Japan. Cruise lines are doing work on sustainability, environmentalism, and impact on the wider world. There are no official sustainability ratings for cruise vacations, and while there are numerous reports, statistics, and claims, none are 100% reliable or 100% unbiased. Reading these reports alongs with your own research can give you a decent idea of which cruise ships are doing the most to reduce their impact. Greening Hotels Lodgings contribute about one percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. New hotels are becoming more aware of the ways they can improve their greenness. A hotel that is a model would be plastic bottle-free, anti-fossil fuel, and powered entirely by renewable energy. Door frames, light fixtures, and even tile would be reuseable. Guest rooms would be decorated with locally made furnishings and upholstered in sustainably sourced fabrics. When the Hotel Marcel opened in New Haven, Connecticut in May 2022, it checked all those green boxes as part of a mission to be the U.S'.s first net-zero carbon-emissions hotel. But it missed one huge consideration: embodied carbon in the hotel's construction. New hotels will have to take that into account as well. Event space in the award-winning "Green" hotel Marcel. Adapting To and Protecting Nature Travel businesses and destinations are slowly changing how they operate, to lead travelers to experience places and activities differently. Lack of snow? Canada's Whistler ski resort has responded to this by offering more snow-free activities – so much so that it now makes more money in summer. Downhill mountain biking in Garbanzo zone in Whistler bike park. Solar panels are being installed in West Africa's Cape Verde. The Seychelles islands off East Africa have added conservation guidelines to the national constitution – the first time a country has done so. Adaptations such as seawalls, pumps and changes in construction materials are being considered. Tour companies are becoming more aware. Ziptrek Ecotours is the first adventure outfitter in Queenstown, New Zealand, to offer consumer-facing labeling to show customers what their emissions would be, when selecting among competing zipline tours. (But then again, nobody gets to New Zealand without taking a long-haul flight.) will soon show carbon emission listings on flight and hotel results, allowing travelers to filter lower carbon emission results from a range. Iberostar Group released its own ambitious decarbonization roadmap which is partly marketing (it wants 60 percent of guests to choose the brand for its sustainability actions by 2025) and partly action (a 2030 net zero goal and nature-based carbon compensation projects at its 97 resorts across four continents). The Netherlands is considering an eco-efficiency index of its visitors. This means dividing the amount of revenues a tourist brings in by the amount of carbon dioxide emissions the tourist triggered traveling there. That index would indicate which long-haul market the government should direct marketing dollars toward to help reduce emission impacts. Offering Free Public Transport Luxembourg was the first country to offer free public transport for all in 2020, followed by Malta, and scores of other destinations now offer discounted or free public transport. Free public transportation is popular in many cities. In Miami, trolleys and the downtown Peoplemover monorail are free. In 2022, Germany has the Deutschlandticket scheme, offering passengers unlimited travel on buses, trams and regional trains for about fifty dollars a month. Developing Sleeper Trains In 2025, Europe's sleeper train network has been enjoying a renaissance. The continent's expanding offering of nocturnal routes aims to compete with short-haul flights on speed, cost, comfort and climate impact. The European Union has plans to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and link all major cities in the bloc. The overnight train amsterdam innsbruck, operated by Night Jet, a brand name given by the Austrian ... More Federal Railways Nightjet operates in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland. Also, employers are signing up for movements such as Climate Perks, which gives employees more holiday if they travel by train. Approving Staycations, Remote Working, Workations About 60 countries have embraced the idea of working from anywhere through 'digital nomad' visas. These allow people to work remotely from dozens of countries, enabling them to embrace slower travel and really get to know a destination. (My family did this last year in Spello Italy. This year we're renting a house near the Erie Canal in western New York.) Huge numbers of workers now work from home throughout the world. As of May 2023, 39 per cent of United Kingdom workers said they regularly work from home, with many taking 'workations' (working while away on holiday). Combating Over-Tourism Tour companies are going out of their way to introduce new, less crowded destinations. The majority of trips booked through Byway are in areas that aren't hotspots. Companies like Original Travel now sell trips to lesser-visited areas in France, Spain, Italy and Greece. 'We've made it our mission to tackle the scourge of overtourism, where too many tourists descend on too few destinations, in the process risking what made these precious places so special in the first place,' says co-founder Tom Barber. But Much More Needs to Be Done The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism was introduced by the U.N.'s World Tourism Organization at the 2021 conference. The declaration, originally signed by more than 300 travel companies, nonprofit organizations and government agencies, now has almost thousand signatories. It was supposed to 'secure strong actions and commitment from the tourism sector' and 'accelerate climate action.' Participating travel organizations would disclose greenhouse gas emissions; take steps to decarbonize; restore and protect natural ecosystems; and collaborate to ensure best practices. The two core commitments: Within 12 months of signing the accord, entities would create and submit a public 'climate action plan' that outlined specific actions they would take to reduce emissions. And second, signatories would halve their emissions before 2030, in order to get on track to reach net zero emissions by 2050. The signatories are large and small — hotels, local governments, travel agencies and others — and range from big names like Expedia Group and Radisson Hotels to location-specific groups, like the Great Himalaya Trail and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. But the vast majority of tourism players haven't signed on, including major aviation companies. And most cruise lines have steered clear of the declaration. Most organizations that did sign on have not yet published climate action plans. In other words, nearly three-fourths of the entities haven't delivered what they promised. And there's no enforcement. Key issues remain unresolved. Signatories pledged to halve emissions, but efforts are hard to quantify. While individually some of the signatories have begun to shrink their own carbon footprints, there is no broad evidence as yet that the travel industry's emissions have diminished. Global emissions, meanwhile, are still on the rise. 2030 is five years away, so any requirement in reporting emission-level reductions has not yet hit the deadline. A report from Intrepid Travel, entitled, 'A Sustainable Future for Travel: From Crisis to Transformation,' encourages the industry to act now to ensure its future. It's a blueprint of what can and should be done by the tourism industry to deal with climate change. It provides hope for what could be, nudging the travel industry toward a more environmentally friendly future. I recently spoke about travel and climate change at the New York Society for Ethical Culture. Check out the discussion on my YouTube channel Places I Remember: Travel Talk with Lea Lane. Also, for all travel topics, check out my award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane. T
