A Study on the Status of Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Practices - With Special Reference to Mamallapuram, Tamilnadu

Authors: Sonia Varghese

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.22214/ijraset.2024.63827

Abstract

This research explores the state of ecotourism and sustainability practices in Mahabalipuram by engaging with local businesses, tourists, tourist agencies, and government bodies. The findings reveal significant challenges in waste management, including widespread waste generation, complex waste composition, and inadequate segregation practices. Limited awareness, insufficient infrastructure, and poor stakeholder collaboration exacerbate these issues, resulting in environmental pollution and health risks. Despite sporadic awareness initiatives, sustained and coordinated efforts are needed to promote behavior change among residents, businesses, and tourists. The research highlights the necessity of infrastructure improvements, comprehensive awareness campaigns, regulatory measures, and community engagement to enhance sustainability practices. Government efforts, while proactive, face challenges in ensuring adherence to regulations and fostering environmental stewardship. Overall, this study emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address waste management and promote sustainable tourism in Mahabalipuram, aiming for the long-term preservation of its natural and cultural heritage.

Introduction

I. INTRODUCTION

The table presents a comprehensive assessment of eco-tourism and sustainable practices in Mamallapuram, examining the awareness and engagement levels of key stakeholders including local businesses, tourists, the tourism department, and the local panchayat. Mamallapuram, renowned for its cultural heritage and tourism offerings, faces challenges related to waste management and sustainable development. This analysis highlights the varying degrees of commitment and areas for improvement among stakeholders towards fostering responsible tourism and environmental conservation in the region.

Key findings reveal that while local businesses demonstrate conscientious efforts in waste management, tourists exhibit a mix of behaviors ranging from environmental negligence to genuine concern. The tourism department and local panchayat play instrumental roles in promoting sustainable practices, although certain deficiencies hinder optimal waste management infrastructure and awareness campaigns. The table concludes with actionable suggestions aimed at enhancing eco-tourism and sustainability in Mamallapuram, emphasizing the importance of proper waste disposal, transportation enhancements, community engagement, government initiatives, and sustainable tourism facilities. These recommendations serve as a roadmap towards promoting responsible tourism practices and preserving Mamallapuram's cultural and ecological heritage for future generations.

II. MAJOR FINDNGS

OBJECTIVE/

STAKEHOLDERS

Local people doing business at Mamallapuram

Tourists visiting Mamallapuram

Tourism department

Local panchayat

consolidated

OBJECTIVE 1:

To examine the awareness of eco-tourism and sustainable practices in Mamallapuram among stakeholders

The business community in Mamallapuram is conscientious about adhering to sustainable practices and understanding the importance of proper waste disposal guidelines set by the local panchayat. They diligently gather the waste produced by their businesses, carefully sorting it before depositing it into designated common areas provided by the panchayat for waste segregation and disposal. This systematic approach ensures responsible waste management within the community.

A notable portion of visitors to Mamallapuram demonstrate a concerning lack of awareness and commitment to sustainable practices and their long-term consequences. Many individuals casually discard waste on the streets without consideration for the environmental impact or future generations. Furthermore, a significant number of conscientious tourists express genuine frustration regarding the inadequate waste management infrastructure in the area. They point out the scarcity and inaccessibility of waste bins, making it challenging for them to properly dispose of their waste. This situation forces responsible tourists to carry their waste for considerable distances in search of appropriate disposal facilities. The absence of convenient waste disposal options undermines efforts towards responsible tourism and highlights the urgent need for improved waste management infrastructure in Mamallapuram.

The tourism department in Mamallapuram plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices among tourists and supporting the development of local communities. They organize diverse cultural events aimed at enriching the local heritage, ultimately contributing to the improved livelihoods of the community members. This proactive approach fosters a symbiotic relationship between tourism and community development in Mamallapuram.

The local panchayat in Mamallapuram is actively engaged in educating the community about the importance of sustainable practices and the potential long-term effects of disregarding them. They conduct awareness campaigns to enlighten residents and businesses about sustainable living and its impact on future generations.

Moreover, the panchayat takes responsibility for ensuring proper waste management and cleanliness throughout tourist areas. They oversee the collection of waste from various locations and prioritize initiatives for recycling, reusing, and reducing waste. This concerted effort not only maintains the cleanliness of tourist destinations but also promotes sustainable waste management practices within the community.

Through these initiatives, the panchayat demonstrates a commitment to environmental conservation and community welfare, fostering a culture of responsible stewardship in Mamallapuram.

Importance of Collaborative Efforts: Efforts from all stakeholders - including the business community, tourists, tourism department, and local panchayat - are crucial for enhancing awareness and implementing effective sustainable practices in Mamallapuram. Collaborative initiatives can address challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of awareness, and irresponsible tourism behaviors. By working together, stakeholders can promote eco-tourism, preserve local heritage, and create a sustainable environment that supports the well-being of the local community and enhances the tourism industry in Mamallapuram.

In summary, addressing the existing challenges and promoting sustainable practices require collective action and collaboration among stakeholders. Enhancing awareness, improving infrastructure, and fostering responsible tourism behaviors are key components for achieving long-term sustainability and preserving the unique cultural and natural heritage of Mamallapuram.

OBJECTIVE 2:

To analyze the enablers and disablers in eco-tourism and sustainability practices adopted by different stakeholders in Mamallapuram

In the context of enabling local business activities, these individuals ensure they responsibly manage their generated waste by collecting and properly disposing of it in designated bins.

The decline in selling traditional products due to modern tools and equipment is evident. Many sellers have shifted to offering popular food items like ice cream, juice, and snacks, reducing the sale of traditional handmade goods such as bags and jewelry significantly.

Many tourists tend to prioritize their enjoyment during trips and show minimal concern for environmental conservation, often leading to littering and improper waste disposal in public areas rather than utilizing designated dustbins.

Within this tourist demographic, a select few exhibit genuine concern for nature. They point out that the lack of visible and well-maintained dustbins poses challenges for proper waste disposal during their travels. This issue highlights the importance of accessible and well-maintained waste disposal infrastructure in promoting responsible tourism practices.

The tourism department implements sustainable development practices in various ways. They organize tours for tourists in groups to minimize carbon emissions. Additionally, they educate tourists about rules, regulations, and the importance of environmental conservation, urging them to reduce plastic usage.

Furthermore, the tourism department supports the local community by hosting programs during festival seasons, providing platforms for locals to showcase their talents. These initiatives aim to uplift the livelihoods of community members through cultural engagement and economic opportunities.

The local panchayat plays a vital role as an enabler in waste management at tourist sites by collecting, recycling, and reusing waste. They also address community issues to ensure satisfaction and maintain cleanliness and upkeep of tourist areas.

However, the panchayat also acts as a disabler due to certain shortcomings. They neglect maintenance of some dustbins, with many placed far apart, requiring tourists to carry waste long distances for disposal. Some dustbins are poorly located and not easily visible, leading tourists to believe there are no disposal options available. Additionally, some dustbins are of low quality and frequently damaged, hindering effective waste management.

Action Enablers:

Local Business Community Initiatives: Local businesses are actively participating in waste management efforts and promoting sustainable tourism practices. They support local economic development by incorporating eco-friendly measures and engaging in community education programs about recycling and environmental stewardship.

Community Engagement Programs: Various community engagement initiatives are in place to educate residents about sustainable tourism and responsible waste management. These programs are more efficient in promoting recycling awareness but need improvement in overall waste management education.

Support from the Tourism Department: The tourism department actively encourages sustainable tourism by promoting eco-friendly practices among visitors and collaborating with local stakeholders to enhance the tourist experience while preserving the environment.

Institutional Enablers:

Local Panchayat Involvement: The local panchayat demonstrates strong support for sustainable tourism through policy-making and community initiatives. They are instrumental in organizing and maintaining local waste management systems and supporting educational campaigns about recycling.

Tourism Department Initiatives: The tourism department’s policies and programs are designed to promote sustainable tourism, including funding for waste management projects and educational outreach to tourists and locals alike.

Action Disablers:

Tourist Behavior: A significant challenge is the lack of environmental awareness among tourists, leading to issues like littering. Many tourists visiting Mahabalipuram have zero knowledge about local waste management practices and need comprehensive guidance to minimize their environmental impact.

Decline in Traditional Crafts: Modernization has led to a decline in traditional crafts, which negatively impacts the local economy and cultural heritage. This trend requires targeted interventions to revitalize traditional skills and promote them as part of sustainable tourism.

Institutional Disablers:

Inadequate Waste Management Infrastructure: The waste management infrastructure is insufficient, with poorly maintained or inaccessible dustbins hindering effective waste disposal. This shortcoming requires significant improvements to support sustainable tourism.

Lack of Comprehensive Waste Management Education: While recycling awareness among stakeholders is relatively high, there is a notable deficiency in broader waste management education. This gap needs to be addressed through enhanced training programs and public awareness campaigns.

Objective 3:

To suggest best practices to promote eco-tourism and sustainability practices in Mamallapuram

Proper Waste Disposal:

Install adequate bins with clear signage.

Segregate waste (recyclables, biodegradables, hazardous) for efficient disposal.

Enforce strict rules and fines for littering.

Educate locals and tourists on waste segregation.

Transportation and Infrastructure:

Expand and improve public transport connectivity.

Develop cycling lanes and pedestrian-friendly pathways.

Encourage eco-friendly modes of transport to reduce carbon emissions

Government Initiatives:

Conduct awareness campaigns via various mediums (radio, local events).

Enforce regulations on waste management and cleanliness.

Cleanup Activities:

Engage school students in cleaning activities.

Conduct regular cleanup drives and awareness campaigns.

Focus on specific areas like beaches and streets for cleanup efforts.

Improve visibility and maintenance of waste bins.

Tourist Facilities:

Enhance restroom facilities to accommodate increasing tourist numbers.

Provide 24-hour drinking water facilities to reduce plastic bottle usage.

Install prominent and durable dustbins with clear signage.

Create designated rest areas within green spaces for relaxation.

Community Engagement:

Foster community involvement through regular awareness campaigns.

Encourage local businesses to adopt sustainable practices.

Implement effective waste management policies, including recycling initiatives.

Sustainable Initiatives:

Form community groups for sustainability projects.

Educate through college awareness programs.

Promote products with sustainable packaging.

Implement pollution prevention actions and enforce penalties.

By implementing a comprehensive waste management and awareness program, Mamallapuram can significantly enhance sustainability practices. This approach involves educating and engaging all stakeholders, improving infrastructure for eco-friendly transportation, and ensuring proper waste disposal facilities. Sustainable development can be achieved through collective efforts focused on waste reduction, resource conservation, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within the community and among tourists visiting Mamallapuram.

Conclusion

The analysis underscores the critical need for concerted efforts to promote eco-tourism and sustainable practices in Mahabalipuram. Despite notable initiatives by local businesses, the tourism department, and the panchayat, challenges persist, particularly concerning waste management and infrastructure deficiencies impacting tourist experiences and environmental conservation efforts. To address these challenges effectively, stakeholders must prioritize the implementation of recommended best practices, including installing adequate waste bins with clear signage, enforcing strict anti-littering regulations, enhancing public transportation options, and engaging in regular cleanup activities focused on specific tourist areas. Understanding the perspectives of each stakeholder is crucial as it directly influences their behavior and impacts the behavior of end-users or beneficiaries of sustainable development initiatives. When consumers possess a foundational understanding of sustainable development, they are more likely to contribute to these efforts based on their level of awareness and knowledge. Conversely, if the final users lack awareness or understanding of sustainable practices, it becomes imperative for stakeholders to take on the responsibility of educating and enlightening them about the importance and principles of sustainable development. The role of governmental bodies, especially at the state level, is pivotal in spreading awareness, particularly among underserved or lower-level communities. State authorities should prioritize initiatives aimed at educating the public about sustainable practices and their benefits. Additionally, local governing bodies like panchayats, with their direct authority and proximity to communities, have a unique opportunity to lead sustainable development efforts at the grassroots level. Panchayats can play a crucial role in raising awareness through targeted campaigns, workshops, and community engagement activities. However, implementing sustainable initiatives at the local level can sometimes lead to conflicts or challenges. For instance, if a panchayat decides to ban single-use plastics to promote environmental conservation, they must simultaneously ensure viable alternatives are available to meet essential needs like packaging or storage. This could involve providing accessible and reliable clean drinking water facilities to minimize reliance on plastic bottles. Another effective approach is to empower local communities by involving them as partners in sustainable development endeavors. By assigning responsibilities and encouraging active participation, communities become stakeholders in the process, leading to a sense of ownership and commitment towards sustainable practices. This participatory approach can be facilitated through local governance structures, where community members are engaged in decision-making and implementation processes related to sustainability initiatives. Fostering community involvement through awareness campaigns and sustainable initiatives is essential in cultivating a culture of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship among residents and visitors alike. By collaboratively implementing these strategies, Mahabalipuram can emerge as a beacon of sustainable tourism, preserving its cultural heritage while safeguarding its natural resources for future generations. In summary, enhancing understanding and awareness of sustainable development among stakeholders and end-users is crucial for fostering meaningful and lasting change. Governments, both at the state and local levels, should take proactive measures to educate and engage communities in sustainable practices, leveraging their authority and influence to promote a culture of sustainability and responsible environmental stewardship. By empowering and involving communities as partners in these efforts, sustainable development becomes a shared responsibility and collective endeavor towards building a more environmentally conscious and resilient society.

References

[1] Arce, A. (2003). Value contestations in development interventions: community development and sustainable livelihoods approaches. Community Development Journal, 38(3), 199-212. [2] Brocklesby, M. A., & Fisher, E. (2003). Community development in sustainable livelihoods approaches– an introduction. Community development journal, 38(3), 185-198. [3] Das, Suchismita. \"Ecotourism, Sustainable Development and the Indian state.\" Economic and Political Weekly 46.37 (2011): 60-67 [4] Fennell, D. A. (2014). Ecotourism. Routledge. [5] Liu-Lastres, B., Mariska, D., Tan, X., & Ying, T. (2020). Can post-disaster tourism development improve destination livelihoods? A case study of Aceh, Indonesia. Journal of Destination Marketing & Management, 18, 1-10. [6] Ministry of Tourism. (2021). India Tourism Statistics. Market Research Division, Government of India. https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-04/India%20Tourism%20Statistics%202021.pdf [7] Ministry of Tourism. (2022). India Tourism Statistics. Market Research Division, Government of India. https://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022- [8] 09/India%20Tourism%20Statistics%202022%20%28English%29.pdf [9] Rachmawati, E., & Fountain, J. (2020). Role of external stakeholders in tourism development and community empowerment. International Journal of Applied Sciences in Tourism and Events, 4(1), 25-36. [10] Scheyvens, R. (1999). Ecotourism and the empowerment of local communities. Tourism management, 20(2), 245-249. [11] Šimková, E. (2007). Strategic approaches to rural tourism and sustainable development of rural areas. Agricultural economics, 53(6), 263-270. [12] Stander, M. W., & Rothmann, S. (2010). Psychological empowerment, job insecurity and employee engagement. SA Journal of Industrial Psychology, 36(1), 1-8. [13] Zeppel, H.D, (2006), Indigenous Ecotourism: Sustainable Development and Management, CABI Publishing [14] Network, G. F. (2019). Ecological footprint. [15] Wiedmann, T., & Barrett, J. (2010). A review of the ecological footprint indicator—perceptions and methods. Sustainability, 2(6), 1645-1693 [16] Kumar, A., & Antony, D. (2016). Role of Tourism in Social Development-A Case Study of Mahabalipuram, Tamilnadu. International Journal of Social Science and Economics Invention, 2(9), 77-82. [17] Dowling¹, R. K., & Fennell, D. A. (2003). The context of ecotourism policy and planning. Ecotourism policy and planning, 1. [18] Zimmerman, M. A. (1995). Psychological empowerment: Issues and illustrations. American journal of community psychology, 23, 581-599. [19] Yusoff, M. M. (2020, August). Improving the quality of life for sustainable development. In IOP conference series: Earth and environmental science (Vol. 561, No. 1, p. 012020). IOP Publishing. [20] Kiper, T. (2013). Role of ecotourism in sustainable development. InTech. [21] Hovinen, G. R. (2002). Revisiting the destination lifecycle model. Annals of tourism research, 29(1), 209-230. [22] Ghosh, T. (2011). Coastal tourism: Opportunity and sustainability. Journal of Sustainable Development, 4(6), 67. [23] Sasidharan, V., & Thapa, B. (2002). Sustainable Coastal and Marine Tourism Development. Island tourism and sustainable development: Caribbean, Pacific, and Mediterranean experiences, 93. [24] Hengky, S. H., & Kikvidze, Z. (2021). Sustainable Coastal Tourism in Tanjung Kelayang, Indonesia. Tourism Planning & Development, 18(3), 365-370. [25] Khamidov, O. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: ECO-TOURISM DEPLOYMENT AND ITS TENDENCIES. CASE OF UZBEKISTAN. In Conference Paper “Modern Approaches and Methods of Teacher Training” for German language teachers (p. 30). [26] Wackernagel, M., & Rees, W. (2004). What is an ecological footprint. The sustainable urban development reader, 211, 219. [27] Mancini, M. S., Galli, A., Niccolucci, V., Lin, D., Bastianoni, S., Wackernagel, M., & Marchettini, N. (2016). Ecological footprint: refining the carbon footprint calculation. Ecological indicators, 61, 390-403. [28] Lumsdon, L. (2000). Transport and tourism: cycle tourism–a model for sustainable development?. Journal of sustainable tourism, 8(5), 361-377. [29] Butler, R. (Ed.). (2006). The tourism area life cycle (Vol. 1). Channel view publications. [30] Piket, P., Eijgelaar, E., & Peeters, P. (2013). European cycle tourism: a tool for sustainable regional rural development. APSTRACT: Applied Studies in Agribusiness and Commerce, 7, 115-119.

Copyright

Copyright © 2024 Sonia Varghese. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Download Paper

Paper Id : IJRASET63827

Publish Date : 2024-07-31

ISSN : 2321-9653

Publisher Name : IJRASET

DOI Link : Click Here