US, China, India lead carbon-intensive tourism

TOURISM helps reduce mental stress and rejuvenates our bodies, but it has a serious downside - its carbon-intensive activity.

- S V KRISHNA CHAITANYA

A new study shows that the global tourism landscape contributes around 9% of the total greenhouse gases (GHG), with the US, China and India being the biggest emitters.

The study that analysed data between 2009 and 2019 found the emission gulf between countries that travel the most and the least is almost 100-fold. India is the third highest contributor to carbon emissions from global tourism due to poor adoption of clean technology efficiency and rising demand for tourism.

Rising sea levels, projected to increase by 20.3 cm by 2100, could inundate 398 hectares of land, including agricultural areas and lagoons.

Mangroves, which cover 560 hectares, play a critical role in protecting the coastline and supporting fisheries. However, their fragile state demands immediate conservation efforts.

The action plan suggests expanding mangrove plantations and strengthening shelter belts to mitigate the impact of rising seas and shoreline changes.

Mayiladuthurai's population density of 785 people per square kilometre significantly higher than the state average intensifies the need for resilient habitats.

The district experiences 180 days of discomfort annually due to rising temperatures and humidity, posing health risks and increasing energy demands.

The action plan recommends enhancing climate-responsive urban planning, such as improving green cover, developing eco-tourism infrastructure, and upgrading wastewater management systems.

Additionally, installing solar-powered pumps for farmers and rooftop solar installations in 90,000 households by 2030 will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"This plan emerges from a comprehensive climate risk assessment. It highlights actionable strategies that prioritise nature-based solutions, community-driven initiatives, and sustainable practices," said A P Mahabharathi, district collector.