Amanpulo: Sustainable Tourism and Visitor’s
Management
Case Study
A Course Requirement in Sustainable Development and
Assessment
By:
Lobina, Catherine A.
Gajelan, Judy L.
BSTM 3A
Introduction:
Amanpulo, located in the Philippines, is a renowned luxury resort known for its
commitment to sustainable tourism and effective visitor’s management. This case study
explores the sustainable practices implemented by Amanpulo and examines the positive
and negative impacts of the destination.
Sustainable Tourism at Amanpulo:
Amanpulo is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism by integrating
environmental, social, and economic considerations into its operations. The resort follows
several key sustainability initiatives:
1. Environmental Conservation: Amanpulo actively participates in environmental
conservation efforts, including the protection of coral reefs, mangroves, and endangered
species. The resort has implemented measures to reduce energy consumption, minimize
waste, and conserve water resources.
2. Community Engagement: Amanpulo recognizes the importance of investing in
social capital and community development. The resort collaborates with local communities
to create employment opportunities, support education, and preserve cultural heritage.
3. Responsible Tourism Practices: Amanpulo promotes responsible tourism by
educating guests about the importance of environmental conservation and cultural
sensitivity. The resort encourages visitors to engage in sustainable activities, such as
snorkeling and hiking, while respecting the local ecosystem.
Visitor’s Management at Amanpulo:
Effective visitor’s management is crucial for maintaining the sustainability of
Amanpulo. The resort employs various strategies to ensure a positive experience for guests
while minimizing the impact on the environment and local communities:
1. Limited Capacity: Amanpulo maintains a limited number of accommodations to
control visitor numbers and ensure a more exclusive and sustainable experience. This
approach allows the resort to better manage resources and minimize overcrowding.
2. Sustainable Transportation: Amanpulo encourages guests to use sustainable
transportation options, such as electric golf carts, bicycles, and walking, within the resort
premises. This reduces carbon emissions and promotes a greener environment.
3. Conservation Education: Amanpulo provides educational programs and activities
for guests to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and
sustainable practices. These initiatives aim to foster a sense of responsibility and
encourage guests to become advocates for sustainable tourism.
Positive Impact of Amanpulo:
Amanpulo’s commitment to sustainable tourism and effective visitor’s management
has resulted in several positive impacts:
1. Environmental Preservation: The resort’s conservation efforts have contributed to
the preservation of coral reefs, mangroves, and the overall biodiversity of the area.
Amanpulo serves as a model for sustainable development in the region.
2. Community Empowerment: Amanpulo’s engagement with local communities has
created employment opportunities and improved the socio-economic well-being of the
residents. The resort’s support for education and cultural preservation promotes community
empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.
3. Awareness and Education: Amanpulo’s educational programs and activities have
raised awareness among guests about the importance of sustainable practices. Visitors
leave with a greater understanding of environmental conservation and are more likely to
adopt sustainable behaviors in their daily lives.
Negative Impact of Amanpulo:
Despite its sustainable practices, Amanpulo may still have some negative impacts:
1. High Cost: The luxury nature of Amanpulo may limit access to a certain
demographic, excluding those who cannot afford the high costs associated with staying at
the resort. This exclusivity may contribute to social inequality and limit the benefits of
sustainable tourism to a select few.
2. Ecological Footprint: While Amanpulo strives to minimize its ecological footprint,
the resort’s operations still require resources and energy consumption. Although efforts are
made to reduce waste and conserve water, there is still an impact on the environment.
Conclusion:
Amanpulo serves as a prime example of sustainable tourism and effective visitor’s
management. The resort’s commitment to environmental conservation, community
engagement, and responsible tourism practices has resulted in positive impacts on the local
ecosystem and communities. While there may be some limitations and negative impacts,
Amanpulo continues to strive for sustainability, setting a benchmark for future destinations.