"Almost 50 percent of the 51 island and archipelagic countries in the AIS Forum make tourism a sector that majorly contributes to the economy. Hence, the concept of sustainable tourism is strategic," he noted in a written statement received here on Thursday.
The 1st High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum, with the theme "Fostering Collaboration, Enabling Innovation for Our Ocean and Our Future," was held in Nusa Dua, Bali, with 32 out of the 51 participating countries having declared their commitment to increasing cooperation to govern the oceans better.
Uno remarked that Indonesia shares its best practices in building sustainable tourism, such as the carbon footprint application, where tourists can calculate how much carbon emissions are generated from their travel activities.
The carbon footprint accumulation will be converted into monetary value and then channeled to support positive programs, such as tree planting, renewable energy, and ecotourism development.
The ministry has determined the locations where the carbon footprint program will be implemented, namely in Plataran Menjangan in West Bali National Park, Tembudan Berseri Mangrove in Berau, Tiga Warna (Three Color) Beach in Clungup Mangrove Conservation in Malang, Bukit Peramun Hill in Belitung, and Klawalu Mangrove Tourism Park in Sorong.
"Indonesia showcases a carbon calculator that we have implemented along with mangrove planting," he stated.
Uno said the carbon footprint is also implied in the Declaration of Solidarity of Archipelagic and Island States that was signed by the AIS participating countries' leaders in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Wednesday (October 11).
The declaration states the commitment of island and archipelagic nations to enhance cooperation in addressing common issues, with the principles of solidarity, equality, and inclusiveness.
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Translator: Sinta A, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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