Embracing Sustainability in Greek & Pacific Island Destinations
In my recent research at California State University of Fullerton, I focused on sustainable tourism development in the Greek and Pacific islands. Sustainable development is crucial to preserve the natural treasures and cultural heritage of any island destination. I've always been curious about different cultures and wanted to learn more about the world, considering each person has their own unique perspective based on their background. The continuous learning and compassion for our fellow people can create an environment for everyone to flourish.
My interest in understanding the relationship between the Mediterranean and Pacific islands was sparked by curiosity. I heard much more about the Pacific’s exotic and distinct culture once I moved to the U.S. and was fascinated because it was something I never heard before. While both regions have stunning natural beauty, I wanted to learn more about the Pacific's unique culture. My research explored the values of the Greek and Pacific cultures and why it is imperative to implement sustainable practices.
From a tourist perspective, these island destinations are simply “getaways” to isolate themselves from the rest of the world, without realizing that they are visiting someone’s home. Because these unique destinations are secluded, they have limited access to global markets and transportation challenges. Despite changing tourism trends, Mediterranean and Pacific islands remain popular. However, they now heavily rely on tourism for financial support, which has transformed their societies and economies. Because large corporations and transnational entities have taken control of resources, they benefit from the industry more than the local communities. This can lead to uneven development, environmental degradation, and locals feeling disconnected from their culture.
To strike a balance, we need to develop cultural entrepreneurship and ecotourism to ensure that economic growth goes hand in hand with preserving authenticity and culture. To achieve sustainable tourism development, we must find a balance between profiting from tourism and maintaining the unique character of each place. By embracing these principles, destinations can create a tourism industry that brings economic benefits while safeguarding their cultural heritage and natural resources for future generations.
