Vietnam is increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism development, and eco-friendly homestays are a crucial part of this trend. These accommodations not only offer close-to-nature experiences but also contribute to environmental protection and support local communities. So, what makes these homestays special, and where are the pioneering destinations in Vietnam’s green tourism movement?
Biodiversity-Friendly Homestays: A Sustainable Tourism Trend
In Cu Lao Cham, a beautiful island in Quang Nam province, the movement to build eco-friendly homestays is growing. These accommodations focus on minimizing negative environmental impacts and actively conserving biodiversity.
The Management Board of the Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An Biosphere Reserve has implemented a pilot program to encourage homestays to develop in a green and sustainable direction. Five homestays were honored to receive the “Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishment” certification, including:
- Cai Vong Homestay (Bai Lang village)
- Trang Vu Homestay (Bai Ong village)
- Mai Truong Homestay (Bai Ong village)
- Hai Long Homestay (Bai Huong village)
- Lau Thu Homestay (Bai Huong village)
These homestays achieved the “2 Ngô Đồng branches” level, demonstrating their commitment and efforts in environmental protection.
Awarding 'Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishment' certification to 5 homestays in Cu Lao Cham, Quang Nam, to promote green and sustainable tourism.
Evaluation Criteria for Eco-Friendly Homestays
To achieve the “Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishment” certification, homestays must meet many strict criteria, including:
- Renewable energy use: Prioritizing the use of solar, wind, or other clean energy sources to minimize carbon emissions.
- Water saving: Implementing water-saving measures such as using water-efficient fixtures, collecting rainwater for watering plants, and reusing treated wastewater.
- Waste management: Sorting waste at the source, limiting the use of single-use plastics, and encouraging recycling.
- Use of environmentally friendly materials: Prioritizing the use of natural, recycled, or sustainably sourced building and decoration materials.
- Biodiversity conservation: Participating in biodiversity conservation activities, supporting environmental protection projects, and educating tourists about the importance of nature protection.
- Support for the local community: Hiring local staff, purchasing products from local suppliers, and supporting community socio-economic development activities.
Spreading the Green Tourism Model
The “Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishment” certification program is not limited to Cu Lao Cham. The organizers are striving to replicate this model in other localities across the country, while encouraging accommodations to incorporate eco-friendly criteria into their products and services.
The video contest “Promoting Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishments” is one of the activities aimed at raising community awareness about sustainable tourism and encouraging businesses to participate in this movement.
Lau Thu Homestay in Bai Huong village, one of five homestays in Cu Lao Cham awarded 'Biodiversity-Friendly Tourism Establishment' certification.
Other Typical Eco-Friendly Homestays in Vietnam
Besides Cu Lao Cham, Vietnam has many other homestays leading the green tourism movement. Here are a few examples:
- Mai Chau Ecolodge (Hoa Binh): A high-end eco-resort nestled in the beautiful Mai Chau valley. The Ecolodge uses solar energy, a modern wastewater treatment system, and environmentally friendly building materials.
- The Island Lodge (Tien Giang): An isolated resort on a small island in the Tien River. The Lodge focuses on nature conservation, using renewable energy and supporting the local community.
- Topas Ecolodge (Sa Pa): An eco-resort located on a hilltop, with stunning views of the Muong Hoa valley. The Ecolodge uses solar energy, advanced wastewater treatment systems, and local building materials.
- Homestays in Cuc Phuong National Park (Ninh Binh): Many homestays in and around Cuc Phuong National Park participate in conservation and community-based tourism development activities.
Benefits of Choosing Eco-Friendly Homestays
Choosing eco-friendly homestays offers many benefits for tourists, local communities, and the environment:
- More meaningful travel experiences: Tourists have the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, learn about local culture, and contribute to environmental protection.
- Support for local communities: Choosing local homestays helps create jobs and income for local people, contributing to improving socio-economic life.
- Environmental protection: Eco-friendly homestays help minimize negative environmental impacts, conserve biodiversity, and use resources sustainably.
- Enhanced health and well-being: Living in a natural environment, away from noise and pollution, helps tourists relax, rejuvenate, and improve mental well-being.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly homestays in Vietnam are not just places for tourists to stay but also sustainable tourism models that contribute to environmental protection, support local communities, and provide more meaningful travel experiences. Choose green homestays to make your trip more meaningful! Are you ready for a green trip?