The economic development on the island has been attributed obviously to tourism but it has also changed Roatan's ecosystem. Clearing of land for building purposes, improper sewage and improper garbage disposal methods have perpetrated considerable damage to the island in less than a decade. Various attempts by the environmental organisations have assisted in reducing injurious environmental effects but the long term success of these projects is yet uncertain. Obligatory prohibition on the import of plastic containers into the Bay Islands of Honduras has been implemented. In 2006 the number of tourists increased to about 250,000. The population being just 30,000, efforts are now being carried out encouraging new environmentally friendly septic systems together with energy and water conservation programs.