The Karnataka tourism department has implemented a new colour-coded grading system for hotels and resorts to categorise them based on the amount of waste they generate, a move aimed at curbing pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has directed the state to classify establishments according to their waste output under the new guidelines, an official in the environment department confirmed.
What the Colour Codes Mean
Under the new system, each hotel and resort will receive a colour rating—such as green, yellow, or red—depending on the volume and type of waste it produces. Establishments generating minimal waste and adhering to proper disposal methods will earn a green rating, while those with moderate waste output will be marked yellow. High-polluting units will be assigned a red rating and may face stricter scrutiny or penalties.
The official explained that the CPCB categorised the establishments based on the amount of waste they generate, with the colour codes serving as an easy visual indicator for tourists and regulators. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable tourism in Karnataka, a state that receives millions of domestic and international visitors annually.
Implementation and Enforcement
The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) will be responsible for inspecting and certifying hotels under the new system. Properties that fail to comply with waste management norms may be downgraded or face fines. The grading is expected to be updated periodically to ensure ongoing compliance.
Tourism officials believe the colour codes will help environmentally conscious travellers make informed choices, potentially boosting eco-friendly establishments. However, the industry has raised concerns about the cost of upgrading waste management infrastructure, especially for smaller resorts and homestays.
Impact on Karnataka's Tourism Sector
Karnataka is home to popular destinations such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Coorg, and the coastal belt of Udupi and Mangaluru. The new grading system is expected to set a precedent for other states, as pollution from tourism-related activities has become a growing concern. The CPCB’s move aligns with national targets to reduce waste and improve environmental compliance in the hospitality sector.
While the exact timeline for full implementation is still being finalised, some hotels have already begun preparing for the audits. The government plans to publicise the colour ratings online and at tourist information centres to maximise transparency.
