Preserving Nature: The Role of Community Tourism in Protecting Big Island Hawaii’s Natural Resources

Preserving Nature: The Role of Community Tourism in Protecting Big Island Hawaii’s Natural Resources

Big Island Hawaii, also known as the Island of Hawaiʻi, is home to a diverse array of natural resources. From its stunning beaches and coral reefs to its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes, the island offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature.

One way to help preserve these natural resources is through community tourism. Community tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on engaging with local communities and supporting their economic, social, and environmental well-being. It provides travelers with an opportunity to learn about local cultures and traditions while also giving back to the communities they visit.

By engaging in community tourism on Big Island Hawaii, travelers can help support the preservation of the island’s natural resources. This can include participating in sustainable tourism activities such as eco-tourism experiences that focus on responsible travel to natural areas.

In addition to supporting local conservation efforts through community tourism, travelers can also engage in responsible travel practices such as reducing their carbon footprint and minimizing their impact on the environment.

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) provides funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to enhance their efforts in protecting Hawai‘i’s environment from ma uka to ma kai (from the tops of our sacred mountains to the waters that give us life) ⁵.

By engaging in community tourism on Big Island Hawaii, travelers can help support the preservation of the island’s unique natural resources while also learning about its rich history and culture. It provides a more authentic and meaningful travel experience while also benefiting the communities visited.

In conclusion, community tourism can play an important role in preserving Big Island Hawaii’s natural resources. By engaging with local communities and supporting their economic, social, and environmental well-being, travelers can help protect the island’s unique natural beauty while also having an unforgettable travel experience. #BigIslandAdventure #CommunityTourism

Source:
(1) Natural Resources – Hawaii Tourism Authority. https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/what-we-do/hta-programs/natural-resources/.
(2) HTA Publishes Community-Based Tourism Management Plan for Hawaii Island. https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/news/news-releases/2021/hta-publishes-community-based-tourism-management-plan-for-hawaii-island/.
(3) Home – Hawaii Tourism Authority. https://www.hawaiitourismauthority.org/.
(4) How Tourism Benefits Nature and Wildlife. https://sustainabletravel.org/how-tourism-benefits-nature-and-wildlife/.
(5) Tourism and Hospitality | Free Full-Text | What Tourists Want, a … – MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/2673-5768/3/1/13.