Note: This is the second article in the responsible tourism series

In an age of climate change and environmental degradation, many are beginning to rethink the way we look at tourism. For example, tourism often introduces a lot of excess waste into fragile ecosystems like coral reefs or forests, which can destroy them permanently if unchecked. So, people are now seeking environmentally conscious alternatives that come under the gambit of Responsible Tourism. This sustainable form of tourism protects natural habitats and preserves cultural heritage by generating revenue that stays within indigenous communities, leading to their overall prosperity.

Responsible Tourism incorporates many aspects, including environment conservation efforts like recycling programs, use of renewable energy sources, upcycling, afforestation, eco-friendly waste management, sustainable architecture, and several other measures to protect the environment. Responsible tourism can lead to better experiences for tourists and a greater understanding of the environment.

One of the most important components in Responsible Tourism is Environmental Responsibility. By being mindful and understanding how our actions impact those around us, we can create a more sustainable future for generations to come while also preserving our natural resources such as water and land. In the second part of the Responsible Tourism series, we will focus on Environmental Responsibility, and the steps Skyview by Empyrean has taken to ensure sustainability and responsibility in its work by incorporating environmental responsibility into all aspects of operations, planning, designing and infrastructure.

Environmental Responsibility

The need to maintain sustainability in tourism is a topic that has been debated for decades. One of the most significant ways this can be done is through environmental responsibility, which serves as an example of ecotourism by demonstrating how environmentally responsible practices are necessary to maintain sustainable growth within the industry. As a result of the tourism industry’s impact on the mountain ecosystems, there has been an increased push for sustainable mountain tourism. This means not only preserving what’s already here but also shaping new narratives about how tourism industries operate and interact with their respective ecosystems. Sustainable Mountain Tourism efforts aim to preserve the natural beauty and community heritage by creating spaces that mediate between visitor interests and local values – places where tourists can enjoy their time while positively impacting the environment. In India, the biggest authority on responsible tourism, and consequently environmental responsibility, is the Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI). The organization is largely responsible for shaping the responsible tourism policies of the tourism industry in India.

The Responsible Tourism Society of India

The Responsible Tourism Society was formed in 2008 at the behest of the Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India, 13 widely experienced, eco-sensitive professionals from the Tourism industry, state government departments of tourism and forests, wildlife conservation bodies, NGOs, and Members of Indian Parliament. RTSOI stands for responsible and sustainable practices in the tourism sector, advocating for collective responsibility to ensure the sustainability of the natural environment and the socio-cultural surroundings for a business associated with tourism.

RTSOI is a society for conscious individuals, companies and organizations who wish to walk the sustainable path. They work closely with central and state government bodies responsible for promoting sustainability in an effort that spans pan India, facilitating synergy of policies at national as well as regional levels.

RTSOI stands on three pillars:

• Engaging in advocacy
• Helping create policies and guidelines
• Helping with certification

Skyview and RTSOI

Currently, RTSOI has 6 grand patrons, 10 patrons, 59 partner members, 8 affiliate partner members, and 2 partner institutions. Skyview by Empyrean is one of the 6 grand patrons for RTSOI and one of the 59 partner members of the organization. Through direct involvement with RTSOI, Skyview by Empyrean is at the forefront of the Responsible Tourism revolution in India.

With projects like Green Gondola, sustainable architectural design, rainwater harvesting, biodegradable cutlery, digital menus, afforestation drives, and several other sustainable measures, Skyview by Empyrean strives towards carbon neutrality. Our environment-friendly policies help us have a net positive impact on Sanget Valley’s socio-economic and environmental ecosystem. This is achieved through conscious interventions that include:

• Making strategies to ensure perpetual sustenance of the environment in Sanget Valley.
• Establishing sustainable tourism practices that include conservation of nature and wildlife.
• Implementing RTSOI’s policies and codes of conduct of Sustainable tourism.
• Supporting RTSOI’s research in tourism.
• Ensuring our products and services are sustainable and eco-friendly.
• Ensuring minimal consumption and preventing excessive energy usage.
• Collaborating with like-minded bodies and implementing ecotourism objectives.
• Implementing low pollution-generating practices and minimizing carbon footprint.
• Adopting energy-saving particles and technologies.
• Establishing a robust waste management system.