In another step towards sustainability, Munnar has clinched the 'green tag' status for six of its tourist destinations, namely Munnar Hydel Park, Upcycle Park, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Children’s Park, and the Eravikulam National Park (ENP). This declaration was made by Devikulam Subcollector V.M. Jayakrishnan on March 29, 2025.
Officials at these newly conferred green tag destinations in Kerala have reportedly been directed to ensure that green protocol is complied with.
The move comes after an extensive clean-up drive, conducted from March 4 to 15, which saw participation from local organisations. It is said that the clean-up resulted in the removal of a 55 tonnes of waste from the hill station, with a substantial 49 tonnes consisting of plastic. As per Munnar panchayat secretary G.P. Rajkumar, 51 organisations joined hands to tackle the waste problem, adding that volunteers from the Haritha Karma Sena are committed to ensuring the panchayat remains free of waste.
The clean-up initiative witnessed the collaboration of various stakeholders, including the District Tourism Promotion Council, Hydel Tourism, the Forest Department, Kanan Devan Hills Plantations, the Merchant Association, unions of auto and taxi workers, My Munnar Movement, Fire and Rescue Services, Munnar Environment and Wildlife Society, Suchithwa Mission, Haritha Kerala Mission, and Kudumbashree.
Even before being declared a green tourism destination, Eravikulam National Park implemented robust green tourism protocols. This includes a comprehensive waste management system, including fixed waste bins and a waste segregation system. All plastic waste collected is reportedly handed over to the Munnar panchayat for proper disposal. The park's ecotourism programmes, which are overseen by the Kerala Forest Department, prioritise responsible travel and conservation while guaranteeing a low environmental impact.
Sustainability aside, Eravikulam National Park is also credited as being Kerala's first ecotourism destination that is completely accessible to those with disabilities, ensuring that all of its amenities are available to all guests. The park's carbon-negative status, which reflects efforts to minimise environmental impact, demonstrates its dedication to sustainability.
