DANUSKA DA GAMA
Without an off season anymore, Goa as a tourist destination faces a significant challenge with waste management. As tourism continues to grow, the amount of garbage generated has increased, putting pressure on the local environment and the people.
It is high time we understand and address this issue with a positive mindset and ensure that Goa remains a beautiful destination for future generations.
The number of tourists visiting Goa has increased dramatically over the years. For instance, the total number of tourists rose from 2,788,029 in 2012 to 7,785,693 in 2017. This surge in tourist arrivals has led to a corresponding increase in waste generation.
According to the Goa State Pollution Control Board, both the floating (tourists) and resident populations generate approximately 527 tonnes of waste daily. The total waste generated by tourists alone is estimated to be around 273,408 tonnes per year.
The Solid Waste Management Facility on the Saligao hill is a one-of-its kind integrated facility in the country.
Having lived most of my life near the tourist belt, I have seen how waste and garbage has increased with tourist activity and how tackling it is a daunting task.
The Solid Waste Management Facility on the Saligao hill is a one-of-its kind integrated facility in the country. However, it is unable to handle the load of North Goa. The villagers living at the foot of the hill bear the brunt of the stench and sludge trickling down.
Improper waste management can lead to environmental degradation, affecting the natural beauty that attracts tourists to Goa. Our beaches are littered, our rivers are polluted and the overflowing landfills not only harm the ecosystem but are also deterring tourists, impacting the local economy.
Where tourists are concerned, do we have quality tourists who add value to Goa’s economy, or just those that come, make merry and add to the woes of garbage and waste here?
Goa ranks highest in plastic waste generation in India, producing about 12,000 grams of plastic waste per capita per year.
Goa ranks highest in plastic waste generation in India, producing about 12,000 grams of plastic waste per capita per year. This is significantly higher than other states like Delhi and Kerala.
One of the most visible impacts of tourism-related waste is the littering of beaches. Alcohol bottle waste has become a perennial problem with many bottles ending up on the beaches and in the ocean.
We, the people of Goa, need to take collective responsibility for the waste and not just point fingers at the authorities. The repercussions of this mounting problem will last for years, and the generations to come will have to deal with it.
Segregation at source: Tourists and locals need to be encouraged to segregate waste at the source. Penalisation should be strongly enforced without a rollback. It might take time, but it will set the tone for people to learn segregation, which will become a natural practice with time.
Take care of the place you visit just as you would your home.
Being conscientious: Just because you’re on holiday doesn’t mean you do as you please. Take care of the place you visit just as you would your home.
Do simple things like always using designated bins for the disposal of waste. If you don’t see one around, hold onto your trash until you do.
Do not throw plastic litter while you zip through Goan roads and carry reusable bags. This is what entails being a responsible tourist.
Community involvement: We do have clean-up drives. But we need to integrate a large chunk of our local community in waste management efforts. This needs to be fostered at a young age, in primary school, along with parents.
Eco-friendly practices: It is so common to see people abroad carry their own water bottles everywhere. We need to encourage tourists to adopt eco-friendly practices such as using reusable water bottles, avoiding single-use plastics and supporting businesses that follow sustainable practices.
Fines need to be stringent on use of plastic.
Fines need to be stringent on use of plastic. Subsidies from the government could change the mindset of entrepreneurs and show owners that deal with tourists how to adopt change at their level.
Government initiatives: The government plays a crucial role in implementing and enforcing waste management policies. More dustbins and keeping them clean is important.
Certifications can be awarded to encourage hotels, restaurants and tour operators to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Certifications can be awarded to encourage hotels, restaurants and tour operators to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Responsible tourism in Goa is about enjoying the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture and preserving them for future generations. By adopting responsible waste management practices, both tourists and locals can contribute to keeping Goa clean.
This needs a collective effort of awareness, participation and commitment from all at various levels. It's time to undo the damage done and strive to ensure that Goa remains a paradise for all.