The island nation of Palau has made history by laying down the law when it comes to responsible tourism - with an "eco-pledge" immigration stamp, which all new arrivals must sign in exchange for an entry visa.
The Republic of Palau is a popular tourist destination, a Pacific archipelago of about 200 natural limestone and volcanic islands, covered in lush forests and surrounded by an aquamarine lagoon.
Visitor numbers, however, often exceed the local population - and mass tourism is threatening to destroy its fragile environment, the very thing those hordes come to see.Now Palauans are taking steps to protect the islands' natural and cultural resources, one of which is the pledge, with a space for a mandatory signature, being stamped into arrivals' passports.
Written in part using surveys of schoolchildren across Palau, the pledge reads:
Children of Palau, I take this pledge, as your guest, to preserve and protect your beautiful and unique island home. I vow to tread lightly, act kindly and explore mindfully.
I shall not take what is not given.
I shall not harm what does not harm me.
The only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away.The official website at palaupledge.com describes the actions that qualify as violations of the pledge.
These include collecting seashells and other marine-life souvenirs, stepping on or touching coral, feeding fish, taking fruit or flowers from gardens and littering.
Transgressors face a fine.
The website also includes some cultural sensitivity DOs, such as supporting local businesses and learning about cultural etiquette, such as manners of greeting, respectful dress, eating customs and other local norms and values.Explaining the thinking behind the move, President Tommy Remengesau said, "It is our responsibility to show our guests how to respect our island home, just as it is their duty to uphold the signed pledge when visiting."
Palauans, from the president to traditional chiefs and residents, have also taken the pledge. The country is now planning a new curriculum for primary- and secondary-school students, along with other efforts to build eco-awareness in tomorrow's leaders.
Even if you're not planning on going there soon, you too can sign the pledge - there is an easy facility for doing so on the website, as a gesture for supporting the principles behind it...