Sustainable Tourism Approach Reduce Marine Debris in Bahowo Mangrove Park and Make Bahowo Better

Mapia Project Bahowo was designed to tackle environmental challenges and promote sustainable tourism in Bahowo, North Sulawesi. Through extensive data collection and focus group discussions with the local community, government, youth, and religious leaders, it became clear that the coastal village faced serious waste management issues that threatened its natural beauty and marine ecosystems. Addressing these challenges was essential to preserving Bahowo’s environment and enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.

The project focused on building waste disposal infrastructure and educating both locals and visitors on proper waste management. A key aspect of the initiative was empowering the local community through training programs that equipped them to manage the tourism area responsibly. This ensured that the economic benefits of tourism were retained locally while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. 

Additionally, the project adapted New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise into a localized version called Mapia Promise, inspiring both locals and visitors to commit to protecting Bahowo’s natural and cultural heritage. Using a citizen science approach, the project engaged the community in environmental action through a mangrove cleanup initiative. This effort not only helped restore the area but also educated residents about the impact of plastic pollution while enabling them to collect valuable data for conservation efforts. Through these combined efforts, Mapia Project Bahowo successfully promoted sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, ensuring a cleaner, greener future for the region.