The UN recently announced that we only have twelve years to limit the climate change catastrophe going on worldwide. We’ve been hearing about the speed at which we are affecting and ruining ecosystems but for some reason we haven’t done enough to slow it down or prevent it. Most of us still use disposable plates, utensils and cups every single day among other harmful things causing more and more pollution.
One of the world’s most famous travel destinations Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh island in Thailand was recently closed indefinitely to let it recover from the damage caused by tourists. The beach became famous after being showcased in the film The Beach, featuring famous actor Leonardo Dicaprio.
The beach was under intense ecological stress and damage due to the average of 200 boats and 5,000 tourists visiting daily. Most the coral reefs have been wiped out due to sunscreen and destruction caused by swimmers and divers. Meanwhile, on the shore mountains of litter were left behind as well as in the water.
Earlier this year the consensus was to close the bay for four months but authorities decided to close the beach entirely since it would’ve been nearly impossible to rehabilitate it since it’s been completely destroyed—including the surrounding plants around it. This tale has been replicated among several beaches and bays of south-east Asia.
Why did they wait till the beach was destroyed to close it?
Thai authorities have been refusing to shut it down for years since Maya Bay generates around 400 million dollars of revenue per year. Tourists try to take and see everything they can during their short visit without caring about cost nor the negative effects of nature—most tour guides just let tourists do as they please as long as they earn enough money.
Maya Bay’s closure has been a celebration for many environmental activists and locals that have been fighting for the rehabilitation of the beach. But considering coral reefs take many years to form it’ll be a long while till it is restored—if the ecosystem is even able to do so.
We will be facing more of these beautiful site closures if we don’t start to take collective action against climate change. The UN’s warning on the twelve years we have left to limit climate change is right around the corner.
Xoxo,
Rose