ECO-TOURISM STARTS WITH ECO-DESIGN: Sustainable Tourism and Green Building Linked

 

Tourism is fundamentally about exploration, relaxation, and discovery. Yet, in today’s world, as travelers grow more conscious of their environmental impact, the tourism industry must adapt to meet this challenge by embracing sustainability through eco-tourism. This is where the principles of green building become essential. More than just an architectural trend, green building offers effective solutions that directly support the ideals of sustainable tourism. From eco-lodges harmoniously integrated into nature to energy-efficient hotels in vibrant urban settings, implementing green design not only enhances the travel experience but also protects the precious environments and cultures that make our journeys worthwhile. By choosing sustainable options, we can ensure that tourism continues to flourish without compromising our planet.

OBJECTIVE:

I firmly believe that green building is essential to one of the most important human activities today: eco-tourism. I make this assertion not only as an architect but as an environmental advocate committed to promoting sustainability. Eco-tourism’s primary objective is to create travel experiences that prioritize biodiversity, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable practices. This mission ultimately inspires a deeper appreciation and understanding of our environment among travelers. Green building plays a pivotal role in advancing this vision—it's not just about the architectural design; it's about creating spaces that harmonize with nature. In this blog, I will delve into the vital link between eco-tourism and green building. Needless to say that environmental concerns are often more focused on the travelers’ welfare, but in my own personal opinion, social and economic factors of sustainability are just as important, to the point that involving local communities in decision-making is vital for the enduring success of eco-tourism initiatives. By engaging these communities, respecting their cultural heritage, and providing them with meaningful economic opportunities, we can ensure a truly sustainable approach. In our design process, it is crucial that we incorporate these considerations while adhering to green building principles, when put together, will ultimately benefit travel patrons, local populations and our striving planet.

THE CRUCIAL LINK BETWEEN ECO-TOURISM AND GREEN BUILDING

Green building principles are highly relevant to sustainable tourism practices because both focus on minimizing environmental impact while enhancing social and economic benefits. Here's how they connect:

1. Energy Efficiency

Buildings designed with energy efficiency in mind reduce energy consumption through better insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and use of renewable energy sources like solar or wind. Such features can be incorporated in designing eco-resorts and hotels to reduce their carbon footprint. For example, using natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and solar panels ensures less reliance on non-renewable energy, thus contributing to the overall sustainability of the tourism operation.

2. Water Conservation

Water-efficient plumbing systems, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling systems are integral to green building in which we can apply in designing tourist accommodations, particularly in water-scarce regions, often incorporate these water-saving strategies. Hotels and resorts might implement low-flow faucets, greywater recycling systems, and landscape design that uses drought-resistant plants to conserve water.

3. Materials and Resources

The use of sustainable, locally sourced, and low-impact materials is central to green architecture, reducing the environmental cost of building. Sustainable tourism operations prioritize eco-friendly materials for construction and furnishings, such as recycled or upcycled materials, natural finishes, and locally sourced items. This supports local economies while reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials.

4. Indoor Environmental Quality

Ensuring a healthy indoor environment is a priority in green building through natural ventilation, the use of non-toxic materials, and abundant natural light. Eco-friendly accommodations aim to provide high-quality indoor environments for guests by using non-toxic paints, avoiding synthetic materials, and ensuring good indoor air quality through plants and proper ventilation.

5. Waste Management

Efficient waste management systems, including recycling, composting, and minimizing landfill contributions, are standard in green buildings. Resorts and hotels that prioritize sustainability often integrate waste reduction systems, composting organic waste, offering recycling stations for guests, and minimizing single-use plastics.

6. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into buildings to improve the well-being of occupants and connect them with the natural environment. In tourism, this might mean designing resorts or cabins that blend into the natural landscape, featuring large windows for natural views, gardens, and interiors with natural materials that reflect local ecosystems, creating a peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and connection to nature.

7. Transportation and Access

A sustainable building reduces its carbon footprint through proximity to transportation options and designs that encourage walking or cycling. Hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges may be designed to minimize the need for transportation by being situated near public transport or in walkable, bike-friendly areas. Some tourism operations even provide electric vehicle charging stations or promote car-sharing and cycling programs for guests.

8. Community Engagement and Social Responsibility in Action

While green building focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly design, we must not overlook its critical social dimension. At the core of sustainable tourism lies community engagement and social responsibility—ensuring that the locals who welcome travelers also share in the benefits of development. Sustainability in tourism transcends mere environmental protection; it actively enhances the well-being of the communities that host visitors. By integrating green building principles, we can foster environments that honor local culture, bolster livelihoods, and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. When tourism prioritizes these values, destinations can flourish not only in terms of ecological health but also in social and economic prosperity. Embracing this approach is essential for a truly sustainable future.

Soneva Gilly, Maldives

Across the globe, eco-tourism initiatives are proving that sustainable practices and community involvement can thrive together. In Peru, Inkaterra Hotels not only hire and train local residents as naturalist guides but also embrace indigenous building techniques and support vital biodiversity research. This approach ensures that tourism revenue flows directly back to the local communities. Similarly, Chumbe Island Coral Park in Tanzania actively involves residents in conservation efforts and offers environmental education, making eco-tourism a powerful catalyst for community empowerment. Even luxury destinations like Soneva Resorts in the Maldives demonstrate social responsibility by reinvesting in schools, healthcare programs, and renewable energy projects. These examples illustrate that embracing sustainability can enhance hospitality while benefiting both the environment and local communities.

Lagen Resorts, El Nido, Palawan

In the Philippines, eco-tourism destinations not only provide stunning experiences but also highlight the transformative power of community engagement. El Nido Resorts in Palawan stand out as pioneers of eco-friendly design, harnessing solar energy, utilizing rainwater harvesting, and implementing rigorous waste management systems. Their commitment goes beyond infrastructure; they empower local communities by hiring residents, sourcing fresh seafood and produce from nearby farmers and fisherfolk, and offering marine conservation education programs that foster environmental awareness. Bohol Bee Farm exemplifies another impactful model, creating sustainable livelihoods for women through organic farming, handicrafts, and food production. Guests enjoy genuine farm-to-table experiences while supporting local artisans. Meanwhile, Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental transforms conservation into a meaningful journey, where local guides lead guests in snorkeling, birdwatching, and reef protection activities, enriching their connection to nature. Moreover, initiatives like Kawayan Collective in Dumaguete showcase sustainable bamboo construction as a means to generate employment, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and encourage eco-friendly development. By choosing these destinations, travelers not only enjoy unforgettable adventures but also contribute to the preservation of culture and the environment, making a positive impact on local communities.

Bohol Bee Farm, Bohol, Philippines

These examples prove that community engagement is not an optional add-on but a cornerstone of sustainable tourism. By valuing local voices, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that communities share in tourism’s benefits, green building principles create destinations where both people and the planet can flourish.

ABSTRACT

In summary, both green building principles and sustainable tourism share a common goal: to reduce environmental harm and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders, from the local community to the tourists. By integrating green building principles into tourism operations, businesses can provide eco-friendly accommodations and experiences that support a more sustainable future.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Eco-tourism is not merely a passing trend; it represents a powerful movement toward crafting travel experiences that safeguard the environment, celebrate local cultures, and uplift communities. Central to this transformation are green building principles, which offer a robust framework for eco-friendly design and efficient resource utilization while ensuring healthier spaces for guests. However, the social aspect is equally significant: local communities must not only participate in tourism development but also thrive because of it. When hotels, resorts, and eco-projects commit to investing in local people—through fair wages, cultural preservation, and equitable economic opportunities—they redefine tourism as a collaborative effort that benefits all. Travelers gain access to authentic and enriching experiences, while communities secure sustainable livelihoods and a stronger voice in determining their own futures. The future of tourism hinges on achieving this essential balance: constructing buildings that honor the planet and adopting practices that respect the people. By merging green building initiatives with meaningful community engagement, we have the power to shape a tourism industry that provides not just unforgettable memories for travelers, but also lasting value and benefits for the destinations they explore.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS:

All about the mentioned examples in this blog:

https://northflash.com/interview-with-jose-koechlin-founder-of-inkaterra/

https://chumbeisland.com/

https://planvacationasia.com/el-nido-ecotourism-and-responsible-travel#heading-supporting-local-sustainable-initiatives

https://boholbeefarm.com/the-farm/

https://danjuganisland.ph/visit/#overnight-at-moray-lagoon

https://www.negrosseasonofculture.com/2025/02/kawayan-collective-greening-country.html

PHOTO ATTRIBUTION:

El Nido Resorts, Palawan, Philippines

By geLowfish - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79155210

Bohol Bee Farm

By Øyvind Holmstad - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61345684

Soneva Gilly, Maldives

By J-F Le Falher - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6943834

Cover Photo is an original digital artwork by the author. Follow his artist link to avail.

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 3)

 

Inner Courtyard, Biophilic Design

PART 3: Real World Application of Biophilic Design

In today’s fast-paced and urbanized world, many of us spend most of our days surrounded by concrete walls, glass partitions, and artificial lighting, often feeling like we're living in a submarine, cut off from the natural world outside. This disconnection from nature has quietly influenced our lives, leading to stress, fatigue, and a yearning for the outdoors. However, architecture and design have the power to bridge this gap. Through biophilic design—a thoughtful approach that integrates natural elements into our built environments—architects and designers can transform sterile spaces into environments that promote well-being, creativity, and harmony. By reintroducing sunlight, greenery, natural textures, and the subtle rhythms of nature into our everyday surroundings, biophilic design addresses the pressing issue of disconnection, reminding us that our environments should not only shelter us but also help us thrive.

OBJECTIVE

This is the third and last episode of our mini-series on the subject of Biophilic Design. So, perhaps you may want to go through the previous two parts first for a better understanding of the entire series:

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 1)

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: Creating Green Buildings for Life (Part 2)

After defining and examining the various categories of biophilic design, it's essential to transition from theory to practical application. In this episode, I highlight three compelling case studies that exemplify effective real-world applications. These authors have thoroughly reviewed their reference materials, enabling us to extract valuable insights from their findings. Additionally, I will share my personal perspectives drawn from my professional experiences and education, resulting in a well-rounded and engaging exploration for your reading pleasure.

THREE SELECTED CASE STUDIES

After we have discussed the categories of human experiences with nature, it is essential that we dive into a deeper understanding of Biophilic Design through discussing on the applications through actual case studies. Each case studies offers unique information on the benefits of nature into our well being.

CASE STUDY 1: VETERAN’S CENTRE GASHAKA, TARABA STATE

“ENHANCING HUMAN HEALTH AND RECOVERY THROUGH BIOPHILIC DESIGN” 

Author: MANGSHIN GODFREY MOHORSHIN, M.Sc. ARCHITECTURE

Description: A RESEARCH THESIS SUBMITTED TO UNIVERSITY OF JOS, NIGERIA on April 2019

After reading this feasibility study, I found it to be a good example of a project that if implemented, would very well apply the principles of “biophilic design.” The author, Arch’t Mangshin is familiar with Wilson’s theory as he defines, “It is a known belief that humans have a connection and a reliance on nature that has been passed along throughout evolution (Wilson, 1984). According to Wilson (1984, 1993) contact with nature is essential to human health and well being.” Based on this theory, Mangshin conducted this study to be able to design a rehabilitation facility for the war veterans in their country, Nigeria. Mangshin believes that a biophilic design is an essential concept that can, and should be applied to all projects of this kind. He is advocating on this architectural concept and appealing to their government for consideration.

A few architectural elements are employed by Architect Mangshin in his study of a biophilic designed rehabilitation facility such as natural materials, natural lighting, vegetation, presence of water, fractal geometry, natural shapes and form, place based relationship, passive ventilation, and mobility, all of which covers the three key categories of biophilic design which we discussed in Part 2 of this blog series.

In Mangshin’s “space organization section,” he ensures that the building circulation must be easy for the staff to manage; layout and routes should be clear; consideration for noise, type of activity, likely timing of activities and age groups when locating facilities. A reception area or office at or near the entrance will assist in the monitoring of activities and provide a focal point for information and organization. This relates to the application of “mobility” principle as categorized under the “Experience of Space and Place,” from the preceding episode.

According to Mangshin, “The combination of natural materials and vegetation integrated into the indoor environment has not only shown positive impacts among sick patients, but also to healthy people as well. Individuals associated with indoor spaces that incorporate natural vegetation and views to nature are found to have lower stress levels, increased productivity, better focus, higher moral character and even have the ability to heal from sickness at faster rates.” He even shows how biophilic design concept is incorporated in the standard design framework for a rehabilitation center as shown below:

As Mangshin concludes, he describes the uniqueness of a rehabilitation project when biophilic design principles are applied. He said, “By establishing an inspiring and enjoyable experience that cohesively integrates our natural and built environments will provide veterans with a new kind of facility that will utilize a unique approach to enhancing the lifestyles of those who have given so much for us.” He recommends that their government should provide more treatment facilities that will help in restoring and rehabilitating retiring and serving war veterans suffering from one form of post traumatic stress disorder or the other, and also emphasize on making the centers more supportive and therapeutic by the application of biophilic design techniques. Additionally he says this message to fellow designers: “There is need for architects to make it of paramount importance to incorporate biophilic design principles in the design of restorative and rehabilitative environments and other relevant facilities in order to enhance the stay of the patients as well as the staffs for their well being."

I can attest from the drawings that biophilic design has been extensively applied as seen on the floor plans and elevations, especially the vegetations are properly distributed on the landscape as seen in the site development plan. There are inner courts provided that accomodate not only lush gardens, but passive ventilation and natural lighting.

NOTE: For other designs and drawings, please refer to the citation section.

CASE STUDY 2: THE WELLBEING OF THE USERS IN THE APARTMENTS REGARDING BIOPHILIC DESIGN: CASES IN FAMAGUSTA

Author: CEMRE TÜRKOĞLU, AFET ÇELİKER COŞKUN

Affiliation: EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN UNIVERSITY, NC.

Description: A survey research work submitted 2024

The research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews and surveys with local and immigrant residents. Four apartments in Famagusta, a historically significant city in North Cyprus, have been chosen for this study. The aim is to explore the negative impacts of apartment living on families and to offer insights for creating improved living environments.

According to the authors, Cemre and Afet, the Famagusta area is experiencing rising population density and increased construction, leading to a greater reliance on concrete that created challenge for residents to engage with nature. Buildings constructed primarily for economic reasons often result in inadequate cross ventilation, limited sunlight, and a lack of outdoor spaces—elements considered essential in Cyprus's traditional housing. Residents have also expressed concerns about summer insects, particularly mosquitoes, and unpleasant odors from nearby regions, which negatively affect their health and overall quality of life. Additionally, the designs of new developments often lack innovative and creative solutions to meet the demands of modern living. At the same time, the younger population in Cyprus is becoming increasingly disconnected from nature. The destruction of parks and natural ecosystems could lead to more serious problems in the future. Furthermore, the prevalence of small residences that are unsuited for family life and devoid of natural elements can adversely affect the elderly and those confined to their homes due to illness or other concerns. These issues have been studied and analyzed in detail. Famagusta is bordered by the sea to the east, the green line (the border with the Greek side) to the south, and a UK military base to the west.

As a result of the survey and interviews conducted, residents of Famagusta have been observed to prefer a more minimalist lifestyle compared to the past. Regardless of their proximity to nature, they actively seek natural elements in their living environments. Many residents express a desire for parks for children to be located near their buildings. In contrast, those living in areas without nearby parks view this absence negatively, particularly families. The highest percentage of residents feeling good at home is found in Alasya Park, while the lowest percentage is reported in Erbatu. In terms of satisfaction with the view from their homes, Laguna Apartment significantly outperforms other locations. Additionally, individuals who believe their surroundings offer adequate nature and well-being are most common in Alasya Park and Park View. As expected, Erbatu received the lowest ratings across all evaluated criteria.

Based on the data gathered from the research, Cemre and Afet propose the following recommendations to enhance the environmental quality and cultural relevance of Famagusta for future studies:

1. Incorporate more natural and locally-sourced materials, especially those with unique scents and textures that can positively impact the atmosphere.

2. Launch educational initiatives aimed at residents of Famagusta to raise awareness about the benefits of using local materials, addressing the current lack of information on this topic.

3. Introduce more greenery, water features, and recreational areas for children in communal spaces to promote well-being and community engagement.

4. Prioritize comprehensive environmental assessments and analyses before starting any construction projects to ensure a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem and its dynamics.

5. Foster a more integrated urban fabric that celebrates Famagusta's multicultural identity while harmonizing with its unique climate, thereby promoting inclusivity and sustainability.

Cemre and Afet team concludes: “Designers play a crucial role in enhancing the ambiance of spaces while mitigating external nuisances such as odors and noise. This can be achieved by creating clean and natural environments and optimizing projects to maximize natural light and airflow. Effective project analysis is key, considering the diverse needs of individuals, influenced by factors like climate and culture.

Research indicates that incorporating biophilic elements can significantly enhance well-being in residential settings and improve the quality of life for families. Numerous studies such as Kaplan have highlighted the health benefits associated with environments that incorporate elements of nature, sought after by individuals seeking both physical and psychological well-being. Similar results were observed in Cyprus, emphasizing the importance of integrating biophilic design principles into urban environments.”

Below are images of Cyprus apartments provided by the authors. Please see photo attributions below.

CASE STUDY 3: EXPLORING BIOPHILIC ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CONCEPTS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF BRINGING INDOOR SPACES TO LIFE FOR HUMAN COMFORT AND WELLBEING

Submitted by: Evelyn Gyasi

For her Doctorate in Architecture Course in Atlantic International University on July 2022

The author, Evelyn Gyasi’s concern about the health and well being of building occupants drives her to make this study. According to her, most of the occupants live a higher percentage indoor than outdoors. She said, “In our cities today, many buildings especially high￾rise buildings designed and constructed now can be likened to submarines: completely sealed, with an artificial environment. A person can be so close to the glass window but cannot experience the fresh air and smell of the plants right behind that window and the feel of the natural light from the sun's rays, The sound of birds, pets, and human movements, etc.”

She added, “This has become a wake-up call to some designers who have considered having significant attention to interior spaces designed for human habitation. The purpose of this paper is to understand the essence of biophilic Architecture and the need to bring buildings and spaces to life for positive environmental impact and human wellbeing. This kind of architecture is called living architecture that addresses strategies and concepts of biophilia in architecture (Amany R, 2015)”

NOTE: There isn’t any architectural design projects submitted except for a few illustrations which I am going to share for a thorough understanding of the study objective.

The author referenced a study conducted by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), which involved an experiment in a multi-story office building that housed a call center on one of its floors. This call center featured large windows that offered views of trees outside, excellent natural lighting, and raised floors with vents that occupants could control. The space demonstrated strong thermal performance and high indoor air quality, ultimately earning a LEED Gold certification. In this setup, the workstations were positioned perpendicular to the windows, as illustrated in Diagram 1. However, since employees needed to concentrate on their computer monitors, viewing the outside scenery required them to either turn their entire bodies or rotate their necks. (Browning, 2015).

This furniture arrangement is a solid concept; however, a simple adjustment by rotating the workstation a few degrees toward the windows made a remarkable impact, as illustrated in Diagram 2. This minor modification allowed occupants to easily notice the movement of trees outside, prompting them to take occasional glances out the window. Such visual diversions provide a refreshing break from their screens, allowing eye muscles to relax and shifting their focus to the soothing, distant views. These brief moments of distraction lead to valuable mental pauses that can significantly restore cognitive focus. Although the initial investment for the workstation was around $1,000 per occupant, the results of this experiment revealed a striking increase in the staff's call handling capabilities by more than 6 percent. This improvement translated into substantial savings of approximately $3,000 per occupant, effectively tripling the original installation cost. Investing in this straightforward change not only enhances well-being but also delivers impressive returns. (Browning, 2015)

In her conclusion, the author, Evelyn Gyasi emphasized the insights from Sami Miera’s enlightening webinar on "How to Design Healthy Spaces" which revealed that designers have access to a rich array of biophilic strategies aimed at enhancing health and well-being in their creations. While exploring these strategies, this study highlighted 14 evidence-based techniques that can be seamlessly incorporated into projects of any scale. This research has illuminated the imperative for her to elevate her design principles, focusing on the creation of spaces that nurture both psychological and physiological well-being. From the provided strategies, she has selected six impactful biophilic concepts: environmental elements, natural form, natural patterns, light and space, space relationship and evolved human/nature relationship. These concepts not only serve to heighten public and client awareness but also provide a solid foundation for any future projects she undertakes, setting a standard for spaces that truly promote wellness.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I have come to understand just how expansive the topic of "biophilic design" truly is. At first, I believed it was merely about the connection between humans and nature. However, the remarkable research by esteemed experts such as Erich Fromm and Edward Wilson has truly opened my eyes. Moreover, it’s fascinating to discover that the roots of this concept extend back to the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the use of inner courtyards by historic designers. The authors of the case studies I’ve explored share a common goal: they passionately advocate for revitalizing what we now refer to as "biophilic design." I stand firmly with their vision and urge everyone to embrace this movement. Together, we can foster designs that enrich our lives and reconnect us with the natural world. Join us on this important journey!

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS AND PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

CASE STUDY 1

https://www.academia.edu/Documents/in/Biophilic_Design_the_Theory_Science_and_Practice_of_Bringing_Buildings_to_Life?nbs=ri

CASE STUDY 2

https://www.academia.edu/125684093/THE_WELLBEING_OF_THE_USERS_IN_THE_APARTMENTS_REGARDING_BIOPHILIC_DESIGN_CASES_IN_FAMAGUSTA

CASE STUDY 3

https://www.academia.edu/90683258/EXPLORING_BIOPHILIC_ARCHITECTURAL_DESIGN_CONCEPTS_AND_THE_IMPORTANCE_OF_BRINGING_INDOOR_SPACES_TO_LIFE_FOR_HUMAN_COMFORT_AND_WELL_BEING

COVER PHOTO IS AN ORIGINAL POST BY ARCHITALKTURAL, COPYRIGHT ARCHITALKTURAL, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

OTHER PHOTOS CREDITED TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNERS REFERENCED ON RESPECTIVE CASE STUDIES FEATURED IN THIS BLOG.