Saving Siargao, Part 1: The impact of mass tourism on the paradise island

Description

On part 1 of our three-part series, our assignment is to understand the environmental impact of mass tourism on the island.On this episode, we speak to Analyn Dulpina, Kara Rosas, and Iris Aroa of Lokal Lab, a grassroots NGO focused on sustainability for Siargao. Siargao Island is a tear-drop shaped island in Southern Philippines, widely known around the world for its surfing, beaches, and natural beauty. It's fast becoming one of the most popular islands in Asia, but it’s being touted as the next Bali not just because of its ability to draw international crowds, but because its rapid tourism growth and development have brought significant environmental pressures and sustainability challenges. The island is also facing major environmental issues caused by the climate crisis and corruption, and local communities are sounding the alarm.In this 3-part series, “Saving Siargao” we look at the environmental problems plaguing the paradise island, and speak to the people who are fighting to save and protect it. This series is supported by The Earth Journalism Network.