By B.B.
For Horizon

PALAU is again recognized in the world as one of the top five destinations for eco tourism. An article that came out in MSNBC by Sarah Schlichter listed Palau as one of the "dream destinations for ecotourists."
Palau makes it to the top five with Costa Rica, Norwegian Fjords, Kerala in India, and Kenya.
The article said that aside from being known as a famous diving destination, Palau’s underwater wonders is a must-see and so its "unspoiled beaches."
"Palau's remote location in the westernmost corner of Micronesia has helped to shield both its natural resources and its cultural traditions from the detrimental effects of mass tourism, and the locals are working to make sure their island paradise stays pristine well into the future. The Palau Conservation Society manages nearly two dozen conservation areas and encourages sustainable development to protect the islands' fragile ecosystems," the article said.
Palau has gained another feather in its cap by being hailed as a country known for its eco tourism.
The country has always adhered to strict environmental standard to keep a healthy environment at the same time it promotes economic development in the local community.
The country has always been known for preserving and protecting its natural environment and local cultures.
Palau can improve its tourism industry by continuing to focus on eco tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization, ecotourism is considered the fastest growing market in the tourism industry.
Ecotourism can indeed be an instrument of sustainable development. Palau is in the right direction by promoting Palau as an ecologically friendly destination which gives importance to its natural resources and culture.
Drug-free
Last week the police again raided a place in Peleliu for marijuana plants. Again however no arrests were made despite the raid.
Police said that it is hard to prove who planted those marijuana plants, it may have been raided from a property where owners had no idea how it get there and that it could have been planted by someone else.
To put a stop on individuals who continue to plant these illegal drugs, police should focus its efforts in running after people who plant and grow them.
If the police can get rid of the entry of methamphetamine in Palau through their stringent monitoring of the borders and fine investigative skills in running after "ice" peddler, getting rid of the illegal trade of marijuana is much easier.
In my earlier columns, I wrote that even teenagers seemed to have access to marijuana.
In an area in Iyebukel, we were witnesses to some individuals smoking marijuana in the middle of the afternoon.
Police should monitor these places and ensure that Palau is indeed a drug free country.