As travel destinations gradually open up for international travel, travellers will be eager to hop on a flight and resume their pre-pandemic adventures. However, this hiatus in tourism has set the stage for some important conversations. Among the more significant questions being asked is what’s our responsibility towards the planet? Regenerative tourism, which is the next big thing in sustainable tourism, may be the answer.
GIVE BACK MORE While sustainable tourism is about doing no harm to the ecosystems of the destinations we visit, many now ask if that’s enough in itself or simply the start.
Regenerative tourism builds on that concept and goes a step further where tourists continue their travels without harming natural and cultural environments. They will need to ensure that they positively impact the destination and leave it in a better condition than how they found it. In other words, give back more than what they take from it.
NEED OF THE HOUR The global travel industry has been going through its evolution for the past 20 years from ecotourism and responsible travel to sustainable travel. Its successor, which is regenerative tourism, emphasises the relationships between self, other humans and nature.
Scientists are increasingly confident that future extreme weather conditions and climate events are predominantly human-induced. So the tourism sector can also work towards sustaining the planet where all beings can flourish.
HEAL THE WORLD Can travel help mend the world? The long-term survival of tourism depends on creating reciprocal relationships with the ecosystem and those who live within systems that host tourists.
Since it’s such a novel concept, many regenerative tourism initiatives are in their early stages. Much of the work involves encouraging communities to think about tourism as a means to achieve broader wellbeing rather than growing visitor numbers and its impact on the economy.
Having a truly regenerative travel experience may not be that easy. But adopting an approach that improves the unique essence of a community and places, and creates collective positive effects, is indeed the most pragmatic process.
HOP ON BOARD It all depends on the type of destination but in general, there are many ways a tourist can contribute to regenerative tourism. To embark on a journey with your regenerative hat on is to keep an open mind and open eyes. Once you adopt that mindset, it’s more about moving away from traditional touristic behaviour and acting ecologically while helping both the environment and the community recover.
Find out how to collaborate on social or ecological projects, support local causes or volunteer at animal shelters in the area. You can also help by consuming goods and services at local establishments and businesses. The regenerative approach to travel and tourism is a healing force, and an agent of change that will help revitalise human and natural ecosystems. It connects travellers with spaces, communities and experiences that offer a whole new way of being. This in turn allows people to reconnect with nature, the community and themselves, while reorienting to a more holistic, regenerative, culturally immersed and purpose driven travel experience.
Isanka is a business journalist by day and an aspiring poet by night. Nature, humanities, social affairs and everyday living inspire her to put pen to paper.
