Palau's President has signed off new laws to improve environmental protections and crackdown on non-compliant tour operators.
A waterfall in Palau Photo: Palau Visitors Authority
Tommy Remengesau said under the tourism education bill Palau is doing everything it can to protect the world's environment.
The bill, which passed Palau's senate last week, requires operators to provide reusable alternatives to disposable plastics.
Reef-toxic sunscreen will also be banned by 2020, with a $US1,000 fine and confiscation of goods.
The bill also puts front and centre the Palau Pledge, an eco-commitment all visitors must sign.
Palau President Tommy Remengesau delivers a speech at the 45th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau. Photo: AFP / Richard W. BROOKS
Tourism operators must now advertise the pledge, and immigration officials will board planes and vessels to ensure it's being signed.
Palau's government also has been given powers to revoke tourism operators' licenses for breaches.
