Student Article
Mauritius: How Sustainable Tourism Is Reviving Its Endangered Wildlife
Biodiversity (noun): The variety of different living things in a certain area or on Earth.
Initiatives (noun): New plans or actions taken to address a problem.
Contribute (verb): To give something, such as money or effort, to help achieve something.
Vulnerable (adjective): At risk of harm or extinction.
Mauritius, a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, has undergone dramatic changes due to human influence over the centuries. European colonization, along with the introduction of non-native species, severely impacted the island’s biodiversity. Many species of plants and animals vanished, and the island’s fragile ecosystems were left in peril.
What tourism is doing to help
Today, however, Mauritius is leading the way in utilizing luxury tourism as a powerful tool for biodiversity recovery and ecosystem restoration.
Helping species recover and grow
One of the island’s most significant successes has been the recovery of endangered species such as the pink pigeon and the giant tortoise. Once critically endangered, these species are now thriving in protected areas, where they are monitored and allowed to reproduce safely. This success story is made possible by a unique collaboration between eco-tourism operators, conservationists, and the Mauritian government. The tourism industry, particularly high-end resorts, has contributed to this conservation effort by funding nature reserves and wildlife monitoring programs.
Protecting nature on land and in the sea
Furthermore, Mauritius has turned its attention to protecting its coral reefs, which are vital to marine life. Coral reefs around the island are being restored through innovative eco-tourism initiatives. Resorts are actively promoting sustainable practices, such as coral planting and the reduction of human impact on the reefs. Visitors are encouraged to participate in these efforts, learning about the importance of preserving both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
A powerful example of working together
The combination of luxury tourism and biodiversity conservation is a promising model for other regions of the world. By working together, tourism businesses and conservationists are demonstrating that economic growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand. The success of Mauritius proves that eco-tourism can contribute to the long-term survival of vulnerable species and ecosystems while benefiting local communities and economies.
© Paul McGuinness / Our Media
Biodiversity (noun): The variety of different living things in a certain area or on Earth.
Initiatives (noun): New plans or actions taken to address a problem.
Contribute (verb): To give something, such as money or effort, to help achieve something.
Vulnerable (adjective): At risk of harm or extinction.