You might have heard the term “ecotourism” mentioned in the context of sustainability and wondered, ‘what is it?’
By definition, ecotourism is, “tourism that consists in traveling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas.” In short, it’s tourism that involves traveling to a natural environment (usually one that’s threatened or in danger) to support local economies and conservation efforts, while maintaining the smallest carbon footprint possible.
Organizations like the International Ecotourism Society and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council have dedicated themselves to furthering the cause of ecotourism by setting some ground rules for both the travelers and travel operators involved. On the operators’ side of things, this includes operating low-impact eco tours/facilities by using locally sourced building materials and limiting the size of tour groups. It also includes highlighting local cultures through conservation education programs led by local guides and naturalists. Organizations such as the US National Parks Service have also been using the revenue generated by ecotourism to fund conservation for over 100 years. Additionally, if managed properly, ecotourism may even be able to replace other unsustainable sources of revenue, such as deforestation and poaching. Raising revenue to discourage environmentally damaging processes (like urbanization) is definitely beneficial, however, it is crucial that the ecotourism industry considers the lives and wellbeing of local people. If not properly managed ecotourism programs can lead to land and resource conflicts, unfair distribution of profits and exploitation of indigenous cultures. This can be avoided by providing locals with tour admission fees or the raised taxes on accommodations.
The travel industry has taken action to implement ecotourism principles, but what can travelers do? There are several simple steps you can implement on your next trip. Packing less increases fuel efficiency on plane rides, so be sure to pack clothes that can be washed in a sink and dry quickly so they may be worn several times. As always, conserve water by taking short showers, turning off the sink when it’s not in use, and reusing towels. Don’t use the hotel’s laundry services, as they wash each person’s laundry separately, which wastes a lot of water. Make sure to use as little energy as possible by turning off all lights, air conditioning, and TVs when you leave the room. Leave the Do Not Disturb sign on your door when you don’t necessarily need immediate cleaning, as it saves on harsh cleaning chemicals and the electricity used by vacuums and laundry machines. Similarly, use reusable water bottles and return brochures and maps when you’re done using them. Outside of the hotel room, avoid veering off of the marked paths, as you may end up damaging the native plant species. Embrace and respect local cultures, and consider donating money and supplies to developing nations if you visit them.
So, why does ecotourism matter anyway? Firstly, we must put an end to environmentally damaging practices like slash and burn agriculture, and ecotourism has a great potential to replace the revenue it generates. Additionally, putting financial incentive behind the conservation of natural areas encourages countries to protect them. It provides jobs in tourism to locals in countries such as Rwanda and Costa Rica, where unemployment has dropped to less than 10%. The profits from ecotourism are invested back into local economies and provide locals with the opportunity to get involved in the conservation of their native lands.
There are so many breathtaking natural wonders in the world, and if travelers act responsibly, we can make sure they remain that way for years to come. By practicing environmentally sustainable practices and supporting local economies and cultures, we can not only help out fellow humans but our planet as well.
Meera M
The Carbon Newsprint
Sources:
https://greenglobaltravel.com/what-is-ecotourism-10-simple-steps-to-more-sustainable-travel/#T HE%20PRINCIPLES%20OF%20ECOTOURISM
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