The case of Anjuna Beach shows that tourism has led to both positive changes, such as the development of businesses and the construction of buildings, and negative changes, such as pollution of the environment, changes in culture and high living standards. Sustainability is crucial to ensure that businesses achieve the best possible economic returns without harming the environment and cultures.
Economic Boost and Infrastructure Development
This has boosted the economy of Anjuna immensely as many tourists visit the place.
In the hospitality, catering and transportation sectors, tourism and other related businesses have constantly created new employment opportunities, benefiting many people in the region.
According to Goa Tourism, this sector accounts for about 40% of Goa’s GDP, which highlights its importance (Goa Tourism Department, 2022).
In addition, the expansion of tourism also has other positive effects, such as the construction or repair of roads, the expansion of public facilities and the construction of hotels and restaurants.
Environmental Degradation
So this means that although the tourism business is booming, the costs that people have inflicted on the environment are very high.
The problem is that the large number of visitors has led to more emissions and waste disposal.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), tourists produce between 1 and 15 kg of solid waste every day, depending on factors such as area and type of home (UNEP, 2022).
At Anjuna beach, this has led to littering of the beach environment, degradation of ecosystem quality and complications in waste disposal.
For example, poor or inadequate systems for wastewater treatment have led to water sources in the regions becoming polluted and affecting aquatic life.
Cultural Shifts and Social Dynamics
Tourism has also had some impact on the social and cultural life of the people of Anjuna. Although the beach used to be indigenous, it has been transformed into a tourist-oriented place. This process can easily be explained under the term “cultural commercialization” and carries the risk of distorting the local culture. For example, Goan folk dance and music has sometimes been watered down to suit the tourists and sometimes even changed completely (Curiosity Saves Travel, 2023).
Increased Cost of Living and Real Estate Pressure
As with many other tourist attractions around the world, opportunities for residents to purchase property near Anjuna Beach have proven to be very limited.
This has led to a change in the character of the community, where people’s homes are being converted into guest houses or units that are rented out for holiday purposes.
This not only affects the stock of affordable housing for the people but also changes the face of the area and becomes a divide between locals and guests (Times of India, 2023).
The Future of Anjuna Beach
So there is still a need to work on sustainable tourism practices that will greatly reduce these impacts in the future. Key strategies include promoting environmentally friendly tourism practices and proper waste management as well as timely preservation of culture. If the various benefits of tourism that Anjuna Beach has gained are managed and controlled without halting the destruction of the environment and local traditions, then the beach will remain popular with tourists.
To delve deeper into the historical influences on Anjuna Beach, check out our article on Exploring Anjuna Beach: A Colonial Portuguese Impact. Additionally, learn about the significant events that shaped Anjuna Beach history, and uncover historical sites at Anjuna Beach.
FAQS
Tourism has boosted Anjuna’s economy by creating jobs and improving infrastructure, contributing nearly 40% to Goa’s GDP.
Tourism has led to pollution, waste management issues, and ecosystem degradation, with significant impacts on local marine life.
Tourism has caused cultural shifts, with local traditions being modified to cater to tourists, leading to a loss of cultural authenticity.
Increased tourism has driven up real estate prices, making housing less affordable for locals and contributing to gentrification.
Efforts include promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, waste reduction initiatives, and preserving local culture to balance economic benefits with environmental and cultural preservation.