Tiny isle kicks big environmental goals

Sustainable tourism is no longer a buzzword, but we’ve still got a long way to go to walk the talk. Not so for the tiny archipelago of Palau. This isle nation in the northwest Pacific is protecting its pristine environs with a worldfirst initiative that will reward those who tread lightly. Ol’au Palau allows travellers who respect the environment to earn points that will open doors to cultural experiences others can only dream about. Calculate your carbon footprint via an app and offset it by buying sustainably sourced food and visiting sites of cultural significance. You’ll even earn points for buying reef-safe sunscreen. The rewards? Access to pristine parts of the island untouched by tourists. Meet elders, tour historic sites, visit villages, fish at secret spots, and swim in spectacular hidden caves. olaupalau.com