Kerala's attractions are deeply intertwined with its rich, fragile ecosystems, from the Arabian Sea to the Western Ghats.
* **Protected Areas:** The state hosts numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Eravikulam National Park and the Periyar Tiger Reserve. * **Biodiversity:** The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world's eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity. * **Water Quality:** The famous backwaters, particularly Vembanad Lake (a Ramsar site), face challenges from agricultural runoff and houseboat pollution, though strict regulations on boat licensing and waste disposal are being implemented. * **Sustainability:** Kerala's "Responsible Tourism" initiatives are global models, emphasizing zero-waste destinations, plastic-free zones (especially in hill stations like Munnar), and carbon-neutral farming in places like Meenangadi.