Paradise cost: the Pacific islands changing the future of tourism

New push to attract visitors focuses on environment and culture, as experts call for better monitoring of sustainability pledgesThe resort lies on the fringes of one of the world's largest barrier reefs. Powered by solar energy, in an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, there are no air conditioners or pools. Most food is grown in its gardens or fished from the sea, and all the employees are hired from local villages. This is Nukubati on the north coast of Fiji's Vanua Levu island and at the forefront of a growing movement to change Pacific tourism."Our aim is really to improve our environment rather than extract from it," says Nukubati's director, Jenny Leewai Bourke. Nukubati is a member of Duavata, a collective of Fijian tourism businesses who say their industry should enhance the environment and cultural heritage. But the issue is complicated. Continue reading...