Earth Day is upon us!
Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 every year since 1970. This international observed day was first initiated in the USA where there was a teach-in on all college campuses around the country to protest against the increase of industrial development that had caused heavy deterioration to the environment as well as risking human health.
The theme for 2022 is “Invest in Our Planet”, in recognition of how businesses and industries no longer have a choice between going green and growing long term profits being that sustainability is the path to prosperity.
The tourism industry is responsible for 5% of the global greenhouse gas emissions, therefore contributing to the devastating impacts of climate change especially experienced in the Pacific Islands. Advocating for and establishing Sustainable Tourism is how the tourism industry can give back to our planet.
The Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework calls on the tourism industry in the region to increase its efforts towards biodiversity conservation, coordinating carbon offset projects, installing low to zero-emissions technology and restoration initiatives for climate mitigation and adaptation.
In commemorating Earth Day this year, the SPTO launched a Blackout Hour on April 6 for the purpose of reducing carbon footprint and also to encourage participation in wellness activities. This initiative aims to create awareness of the adverse increasing effects of energy consumption.
Happy Earth Day!
#InvestInOurPlanet #GoGreen
