The Kerala government plans to designate 25 tourist destinations as "Green Tourism Destinations" under the "Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam" initiative, aimed at making Kerala garbage-free by March 30, 2025. The campaign will be officially launched on October 2.
This project focuses on redeveloping selected tourist spots to make them more environmentally friendly. Key improvements include better waste management, enhanced hygiene, and environmental protection. Kerala aims to set an example of responsible tourism that could be adopted globally.
The selected locations include Kite Beach Park in Kasaragod, Iritty Eco Park, Chal Beach in Kannur, Lokanarkavu Temple in Kozhikode, Nilambur Teak Museum in Malappuram, Mangalam Dam Park and Kanjirapuzha Dam in Palakkad, Peechi Dam, Hill View Park, and Malankara Dam in Idukki. Other sites include Konni Eco Tourism-Elephant Shelter in Pathanamthitta, Adichanalloor Chira Park, Meenmutti in Kollam, Alappuzha Beach, Thenmala Eco Adventure Park, Ponmudi, Ponnumthuruthu, and Sasthampara in Thiruvananthapuram.
Waste management will be improved with better segregation, disposal, recycling, and composting systems, aiming to reduce environmental impact. Authorities will encourage tourists and locals to adopt sustainable practices. Enhanced cleaning standards will maintain hygiene, and conservation awareness campaigns will educate the public on the importance of environmental care.
The initiative also emphasizes community involvement, with local residents encouraged to take responsibility for maintaining these green standards, fostering a sense of ownership in preserving the state's environment.