When I was growing up, the highlights of our holidays would be aquariums, zoos and theme parks, especially those with dolphins and other marine animals. As I grew up, I began to realise that these theme parks were neither the best places to enjoy these beautiful animals nor were they the best environment for the animals. Over centuries, humans have displayed egregious tendencies to capture animals that are allegedly “weaker” than us and using them for sports, entertainment and some such human benefit. Disputably, as the largest species on the planet, we humans have also radically altered the ecological balance of our planet. However, this is not about human bashing. There are several instances where passionate and committed people and organisations have worked and continue to work for the well-being and sustainability of our planet and its constituents.
One such organisation in Goa itself is Terra Conscious, a conservation oriented organisation that works through a network of local eco-conscious partners. Their approach is promoting responsible tourism focused on sustainable wildlife and ecosystem based tourism practices in Goa.Puja Mitra, founder of Terra Conscious is an eco-activist currently living and working in Goa. With a Masters degree in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management from the University of Oxford, Puja embarked on a career in working towards environmental sustainability. Puja became familiar with the marine diversity of Goa during her stints working for WWF and the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO).
With a coastline of over 100 kms, Goa boasts of an amazing array of islands, lagoons, estuaries, mangroves and even a coral reef. There are several species of dolphins including the humpback dolphins. Dolphins are amazing creatures, very intelligent and high on emotional intelligence too. Their antics in the sea make for a spectacular visual. Their natural tendency is to stay close to the shores, stay and forage for food in their social environment. In a ground-breaking decision, the Indian government has declared dolphins as “non-human persons”. Further into the sea, even whales have been spotted.
Such is the rich marine life around Goa.
Any disruption in these surroundings can lead to catastrophic effects. However, a significant portion of the state’s economy depends on the sea and marine life. With growing tourism, there has been an exponential increase in the number of water sports, dolphin spotting and other such activities. Given their tendency to stay close to the shores, dolphins have become objects of intense curiosity and intrigue.The lack of adequate guidelines and regulations has made it difficult to ensure the sustainability of the ocean and the marine life. This is where organisations like Terra Conscious are needed.
Terra Conscious was set up to be an enabling platform to ensure sustainable and responsible tourism. Over the past few years, Puja says that while dolphin trips have been increasing, there was no real knowledge imparted to the guests or the boat operators. This had led to indiscrete practices.
Puja and Terra Conscious have worked towards educating the boat operators and have given them guidelines on how to operate the dolphin safaris. The aim is to ensure that they do not suffer in their business, but at the same time are responsible towards the sea and its creatures that provide them the livelihood. The progress is slow but encouraging. The Forest department and the Tourism department have also been encouraging and have supported Terra Conscious in their efforts. At present, a couple of boat operators have come forward and work with the organisation on promoting sustainable eco conscious dolphin safaris, sometimes even going out with 2-3 guests, even at a loss to themselves, just to ensure that they follow the guidelines. “It’s not easy to undo all the practices they have been following, but we have to keep trying and shining a light on these issues”, says Puja.Puja also says, “In an ideal situation, some years down the line, all the trips in Goa will hopefully be conducted in this manner, with a knowledge component educating the tourists about humpback dolphins, the boat driver following the guidelines, and everyone coming away having learnt and appreciated this magnificent species in its entirety.”
With tourism as a main source of revenues, it’s critical to encourage green tourism in Goa, with a conscious travel narrative. The biodiversity in the region and in fact globally, is in an extremely precarious state and an imbalance can have catastrophic effects. Interacting with our environment responsibly has to be the keystone of any tourism activity in Goa.
