Kerala Houseboat Earns Diamond Rating for Sustainability
Spice Routes' houseboat becomes Kerala’s first to earn a Diamond rating for sustainability, showcasing India’s potential in eco-friendly tourism despite cost barriers.Spice Routes’ solar-powered, zero-waste houseboat on Kerala’s Vembanad Lake earns a Diamond rating under the Responsible Tourism Mission. With rainwater harvesting, biodegradable materials, and strong local employment, it sets a new standard for sustainable tourism. However, high costs and limited adoption highlight the need for financing and training to scale eco-friendly travel across India.
Combining luxury with sustainability, Spice Routes houseboat in Kerala has become the first to be given a Diamond classification by the Kerala Tourism Department. Although scaling remains a challenge, this achievement emphasizes India's capacity to dominate eco-friendly tourism.
Launched in 2025, the houseboat runs on Vembanad Lake and is equipped with solar panels, biodegradable materials, and a zero-waste approach to cut emissions by 60% compared to conventional houseboats. Part of Keralas Responsible Tourism Mission, the Diamond ranking assesses community effect, waste reduction, and water preservation. With rainwater collecting and sewage treatment, the boat's environmentally friendly design saves 50,000 litres of water yearly. Employing 80% local staff and procuring organic food from nearby farmers helps to sustain local economies.
With 30% of visitors looking for environmentally friendly alternatives, India's tourism industry—which contributes $200 billion to GDP—is under pressure to use sustainable methods. Often causing lake pollution, Keralas 1,200 houseboats—a major draw—with 20% failing environmental requirements. At a cost of 5 crore to construct, the Diamond-rated model is 25% more expensive than conventional boats, therefore restricting usage. Posts on X laud the accomplishment but point out affordability issues for smaller operators.
Supported by 100 crore in subsidies, the Responsible Tourism Mission seeks to certify 50% of houseboats by 2030. Scaling calls for training and funding as only 10% of operators now fulfill sustainability requirements. Incorporating such models will improve eco-tourism within India's wider tourism plan to reach 100 million foreign visitors by 2030.
Achieving Spice Routes establishes a standard for eco-friendly travel. India has to overcome cost and training obstacles to expand sustainable activities across its tourism industry.
Source: Touring and Travel World
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