Sustainable Tourism: How to explore Mauritius responsibly
Apr 01, 2025
There is nothing quite as marvellous or magical as discovering a new country, especially one like Mauritius, often described as heaven on earth. But the underlying impacts of tourism - pollution, overexploitation of resources, destruction of natural habitats - is something we don't often think about. But hospitality actors in Mauritius are now turning over a new leaf, in more ways than one. Read on and find out how you can make your upcoming visit to Mauritius as eco-friendly as possible.
How Mauritius is embracing sustainable tourism?
Hotel managers in Mauritius have embraced the wave of ecotourism. They have put many measures into place to ensure that their approach is ecologically sound. These measures include the prohibition of single-use plastic products within hotels, wastewater recycling, and even a decline of buffets in exchange for set menus to prevent food waste. With the help of staff and visitors, some resorts have also carried out green initiatives like the restoration of man groves, the defence of sea turtles, or the preservation of under water regions nearby. Numerous environmentally friendly lodgings, such as eco-lodges, have also been constructed to reduce the carbon imprint of your trip to Mauritius. There are other eco-friendly activities available to learn about the island and its inhabitants, such as electric bike excursions to see real communities and landscapes.
Sustainability at theheart of Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth
Eco-friendly practices in the geopark
At the beating heart of the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is a love for nature and a determination to protect it. We understand that without Nature, we would not be here and we have a vital role as the caretakers of our environment. We've taken that role to heart, inviting visitors from around the world to discover the beauty and natural history of the geopark – and showing them just why it should be preserved.
Here are some of the measures we've taken at Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark to make your visit greener:
Preservation of the environment
Thanks to strategic partnerships with local NGOs and governmental organisations alike, we support the rehabilitation of forests as well as the reintroduction of endangered animal species such as the Echo Parakeet and the Pink Pigeon in their natural habitats.
Reusing kitchen-used oil
The adage "you only live once" does not apply to how we utilise cooking oil. We have a mechanism in place for our cooking oil that converts it into biofuel, livestock feed, etc. to extend the oil's life cycle and benefit the entire community in Chamarel.
Composting of green waste
At the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, no organic waste is dumped in a landfill! All remaining organic material, including paper and cardboard waste, coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable peels, and coffee grounds, is converted into compost and subsequently used throughout the geopark.
Understanding sustainable tourism
When our environment becomes a product, there is no limit to the harm we can do to it for profitability. Far removed from this idea, sustainable tourism actually strikes a balance between what Nature can give and what visitors want. It is human activity that, ultimately, seeks to protect the environment rather than harm it without care. The goal of sustainable tourism is to maintain the positive economic and social effects of the tourism industry while minimising any negative effects on the natural world, human history, culture ,and society. Put simply, it is about holistic conservation.
Other examples of sustainability in action Bel Ombre Natural Reserve The Bel Ombre Natural Reserve is a beautiful example of sustainability in action. The reserve strictly follows green building guidelines that maximise the use of natural ventilation. They also support the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation to continue its conservation work by helping to provide breeding facilities for threatened and endangered local species. To sensitise the public, they organise Annual Plant-A-Tree Day events with the National Forestry Service's assistance, inviting students from neighbouring schools in Mauritius to take part and discover the value of protecting biodiversity.
Your role in Sustainable Tourism
Making eco-friendly choices during your trip. To make tourism in Mauritius sustainable, hoteliers and other organisations in the hospitality sector need your support. Look out for places and attractions which promote ecotourism and which have the proof to back up these claims. Supporting local ands sustainable Mauritian businesses. Buy local whenever you are in Mauritius! Shop from local artisans who produce items in small quantities. You can even look for the "Made in Moris" label to make sure you are buying from Mauritian businesses.
Embarking on a journey of responsibility
Mauritius, oftenheralded as a slice of paradise on Earth, is more than just its serene beachesand captivating landscapes; it's a testament to what can be achieved when acountry wholeheartedly commits to sustainable tourism. From the eco-initiativesat Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark to the green endeavours of localbusinesses, Mauritius is leading the way. But, sustainable tourism isn't justthe responsibility of hospitality actors and organisations.
Every visitor has apart to play in this narrative. By making eco-conscious decisions, supportinglocal artisans, and engaging with authentic, sustainable experiences, you notonly explore Mauritius responsibly but also contribute to its enduring beauty.Remember, in the dance between nature and travellers, sustainability ensuresthe music never stops. Choose to dance to this harmonious rhythm during yourstay in Mauritius.
