Valuing the Green: Economic Impact of Sustainable Tourism Practices in Mumbai

Abstract

Green tourism, or eco-tourism, has developed as a environmentally friendly style of travel focused on preserving the environment, being respectful of the socio-culture, and promoting economic growth. For India, which relies heavily on tourism for national development, green tourism offers an attractive route to wed economic aspirations with ecological duties. This research study examines the influence of green tourism in India with special reference to Mumbai—a megacity that is struggling with overpopulation, pollution, and fast urbanization. In spite of these difficulties, Mumbai has shown an increasing interest in following sustainable tourism practices through measures like the preservation of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Aarey Forest protection, mangrove restoration, and creation of eco-friendly infrastructure like the Malabar Hill Nature Trail and Mumbai Coastal Road green belts. These efforts have led to job creation, conservation of biodiversity, climatic resilience in cities, and greater environmental consciousness among residents and tourists. The article synthesizes stakeholder interviews, secondary research, and policy analysis to examine the socio-economic and environmental impacts of green tourism in Mumbai. Results indicate that green tourism has promoted community livelihood, enhanced public participation in conservation, and encouraged sustainable mobility and hospitality practices. However, challenges persist, including the risk of over-tourism in sensitive zones, insufficient regulatory enforcement, and loss of green cover due to unchecked development. The study concludes that while Mumbai’s green tourism model is still evolving, it offers a replicable framework for other Indian cities aiming to integrate environmental stewardship with tourism-driven development. Strategic planning and community-led initiatives remain critical for its long-term success.