As we face climate change, tourism should no longer be business as usual. “Ecotourism” is now the norm, which means traveling comes with a sense of responsibility in helping conservation and sustainability efforts. And who better to promote this responsibility in the modern age than vloggers and social media influencers?
Acknowledging the role of travel vloggers and influencers in advancing ecotourism, the Davao-based group Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) held The Greenfluencers forum to discuss ways to address and mitigate the impact of wrongful promotional practices in local tourist spots.
Valuable Insights
IDIS led the forum with the partnership of the City Government of Davao. Together, they stressed the crucial impact of vloggers and influencers in educating and guiding the public toward practicing responsible tourism in protected watershed areas.
“Let us promote and be responsible tourists in the city. We need to know the parameters of the tourism sites we promote. We need to first study if tourism is allowed in the area,” said Al-Ryan Alejandre, Second District Councilor and committee chair on tourism and beautification.
Several vloggers and influencers, including Viajero Davao Hikers League and Vlog ni Jem, actively participated in the forum. They shared that they gained valuable insights, lessons, and connections, empowering them to positively influence their audiences and contribute to environmental conservation.
They committed to leveraging their influence responsibly, pledging to inform and inspire the public through their platforms while aiming to advocate for change and promote environmental awareness. They also expressed a dedication to following rules and regulations in future endeavors, seeking to catalyze meaningful change and foster a more conscious and informed society by sharing their newfound knowledge.
Preserving Mother Nature
Acknowledging past unawareness and rule violations, they expressed a sense of accountability. They viewed The Greenfluencers forum as an opportunity for introspection, learning, and personal growth.
“Pinaagi ani na forum nagpasalamat ko tungod kay na-educate ko. Sundon dapat nato ang legal policies (Through this forum, I am thankful because I have been educated. We should follow the legal policies),” said Jemuel Olantao from Vlog ni Jem.
He emphasized the importance of reforestation and tree planting in addressing global warming, noting its impact beyond Davao. He urged people to plant trees to help protect the ozone layer and preserve Mother Nature.
Arturo Ensalada highlighted the need for personal responsibility in managing waste. He encouraged everyone to carry their trash and pick up litter left by others, advocating for the “Leave no trace” principle to ensure natural sites remain unchanged after visits.
Source: Vloggers, influencers join forum promoting sustainable eco-tourism
