Yun-Chia-Nan Coastal Area Earns Silver Award for Green Tourism
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Yun-Chia-Nan Coastal National Scenic Area Administration received a Silver Award in the Green Destinations certification system.
- This recognition highlights the administration's commitment to sustainable practices in tourism.
- The administration aims to protect coastal ecosystems and promote community-based sustainable tourism.
The Yun-Chia-Nan Coastal National Scenic Area Administration has achieved a significant milestone by receiving a Silver Award in the Green Destinations certification system. This prestigious recognition underscores the administration's dedication to implementing and promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Since joining the Green Destinations (GD) certification system in 2020, the administration has progressively improved its standing. After earning a Bronze Award in 2024, this year's Silver Award signifies a substantial advancement in its sustainability efforts. The administration's vision includes safeguarding wetlands and coastal ecosystems, developing climate-resilient coastal destinations, and fostering tourism that emphasizes coexistence between industry, community, and nature.
The Green Destinations certification system, established by the Netherlands-based Green Destinations Foundation, adheres to the international standards set by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). It evaluates destinations across six key areas: destination management, nature and landscape, environment and climate, culture and heritage, social well-being, and business and marketing. Achieving this certification is crucial for establishing locally relevant sustainable management mechanisms that minimize the impact of tourism development on socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental aspects.
Furthermore, the Yun-Chia-Nan Administration has consistently showcased its local sustainable tourism initiatives through the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories Competition. Since 2021, its unique cases, highlighting local characteristics and ecological value, have been selected for the top 100 stories for five consecutive years. These include the revitalization of the Jingzihjiao Salt Field culture, the restoration of the Haomei Sandbar, the coexistence of wetlands and water in Kouhu Township, the conservation of bird habitats in Budai Salt Fields, and the balance between migratory bird ecology and local livelihoods in the Cigu area. These narratives document the practical experiences and achievements in maintaining natural landscapes, preserving historical culture, and collaborating with local communities, serving as a guide for travelers seeking sustainable tourism options.
We will continue to deepen cooperation with local communities with the vision of protecting wetlands and coastal ecosystems, establishing climate-resilient coastal destinations, and guiding travelers to experience the coexistence of industry, community, and nature.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.