Regenerative Tourism For Better Planet

In the modern world, tourism has become a social phenomenon. Travel is becoming a way of life for human beings. Some characteristics that play a vital role in making it much more popular are late marriage, dual income, increased disposable income, travel awareness, etc.  Realising the special characteristics and economic value of tourism, countries are focusing their attention on the development of tourism and listing it as a sector of economic priorities. Different approaches are applied for its sustainable development. 

However, the destinations are deteriorating and the earth is becoming worse day by day. Problems are incessantly escalated and destinations are exploited for the powerful lure of money. Approaches of traditional tourism focused on the mitigation of negative impacts, which are not able to address the nagging problem. The demand of destination is the restoration not only for sojourn and local people but also for the complete living system in the planet.  Progressive tourism development is compulsory to restore the destinations for a better planet. The concept of regenerative tourism has a fundamental role in revitalising the destination and the planet as a whole. 

Innovative approach 

Regenerative tourism is an innovative approach to tourism that aims to go beyond sustainable tourism development. It is an idea that seeks to leave destinations better than they are at this moment. Regenerative tourism is a destination-centric approach that involves actively bringing back and refilling the environments and communities impacted by traditional tourism, nurturing a positive and long-lasting settlement. It encourages travellers to dynamically participate in activities that benefit the local ecosystem, culture, and economy. It not only mitigates the negative impacts but also contributes to the overall health and resilience of destinations.

It is a new paradigm that considers tourism as a living system instead of an ecosystem. It has an objective for renewal and restoration instead of minimal impact. Regenerative tourism aligns with natural and cultural development, achieving instead of focusing on reducing negative effects in a particular destination. The travel industry can be transformed into a force for good by embracing regenerative tourism that not only preserves the beauty and integrity of the planet but also enhances the well-being of the people and the destination travelled. It’s a powerful tool to transform traditional tourism and substitute obsolescent practices.  

Regenerative tourism offers abundant benefits that go beyond those offered by ecotourism, sustainable tourism, and responsible tourism. Regenerative tourism creates a more holistic and tenacious approach to travel, adopting a progressive impact on both the environment and local communities. It contributes to the restoration and conservation of natural environments. The actors take part in activities such as reforestation, habitat restoration, and wildlife conservation, which help to rebuild the ecosystem, increase biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Regenerative tourism ensures that economic benefits are more rationally distributed by involving local communities in tourism planning and operations process. This holistic approach supports local business, creates jobs and encourages the development of community-led initiatives. It reduces economic dependence on untenable practices and builds a more resilient local economy. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy local products, have local food in local restaurants, and participate in community-based tourism activities, which help to keep financial benefits within the community itself.

Regenerative tourism often has more enriching and fulfilling experiences for the visitors who engage in the destination activities that create a sense of belongingness. These tourists are more likely to form lifelong memories and grow a robust appreciation for the destination they visit. This can lead to an increase in tourism satisfaction and motivation for coming again and again, and positive word of mouth recommendations. Traditional tourism often focuses on short-term gains but regenerative tourism is built on principles of long-term sustainability. 

Comprehensive approach

Changing from traditional tourism to a regenerative model requires a comprehensive approach, which includes the evaluation of current practices and the establishment of clear goals and policies. Looking ahead, embracing regenerative tourism will be a key element to address climate change - locally and globally. Travellers, entrepreneurs, advocates, and policymakers need to come together to create a tourism model that respects and enhances destinations and the planet. This means investing in green infrastructure, supporting local economies, and promoting responsible travel.  

As climate change impacts intensify and natural environments face greater threats, not only the tourism industry but also the planet is at a crossroads at the moment. Being located in a strategic location on the central Himalayas, covering 800 kilometres, a big bank of snow-capped Himalayas and water resources, Nepal has been bearing a huge loss of lush landscape forefront. This adverse effect is beyond her capacity to recover. However, Nepal can speak more loudly and proactively in the campaign to restore the climate externally and formulate and execute policies and plans internally. 

 (The author is Campus Chief at the Nepal Mountain Academy under Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.)