Seeing the World and Saving the Planet: Pollution and Sustainability

Environmental sustainability may seem like a problem for science or government to solve as its causes are complexly chemical, physical, political, and economic. Small gestures by individuals may seem like drops in the ocean. We may be even less likely to consider our footprint when we engage in travel and certain activities. Tourism pollution can damage the environment, use or exploit natural resources, and negatively impact the local communities who depend on tourism for their economic well-being. As local and global solutions are needed, what types of collaborative solutions are necessary to address noise, light, air, water, land, and soil pollution? As some destinations strive to reinvent themselves in terms of planet protection, what can be done to improve life for residents while still allowing travelers to see the world? How can local officials, the tourism industry, and others collaborate to reduce environmental issues impacting the world? Can we—personally and collectively— balance a life of sustainably with economic realities?

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