As the new millennium unfolds, we are becoming increasingly aware of the finite, interconnected, and precious nature of our P L A N E T H O M E .. Likewise, tourism is becoming an increasingly popular expression of this awareness. With advances in transportation and information technology, ever more remote areas of the earth are coming within reach of the traveler. In fact, tourism is now the world's largest industry with nature tourism the fastest growing segment. In response to this increasing appreciation of nature experiences, a new travel ethic has arisen which is now called E C O T O U R I S M ..
This term has become increasingly popular in both conservation and travel circles, but what exactly does it mean ?
<< Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature and accompanying cultural features both past and present that promote conservation, have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active Socio-Economic involvement of local people .. >>
Most tourism in natural areas today is not Eco Tourism and is not therefore, sustainable. Eco Tourism can be distinguished from nature tourism by its emphasis on conservation, education, traveler responsibility, and active community participation. Specifically, Eco Tourism possesses the following characteristics :
* Conscientious and low impact visitor behavior
* Sensitivity towards and appreciation of local cultures and biodiversity
* Support for local conservation efforts
* Sustainable benefits to local communities
* Local participation in decision making
* Educational components for both the traveler and local communities
It is becoming evident that increased tourism to sensitive natural areas in the absence of appropriate planning and management can become a threat to the integrity of both Eco Systems and local cultures. Increasing numbers of visitors to ecologically sensitive areas can lead to significant environmental degradation. Likewise, local communities and indigenous cultures can be harmed in numerous ways by an influx of foreign visitors and wealth. Additionally, fluctuations in climate, currency exchange rates, and political and social conditions can make over dependence upon tourism a risky business.
However, this same growth creates significant opportunities for both conservation and local community benefit. Eco Tourism can provide much needed revenues for the protection of national parks and other natural areas, revenues that might not be available from other sources. Additionally, Eco Tourism can provide a viable economic development alternative for local communities with few other income generating options. Moreover, Eco Tourism can increase the level of education and activism among travelers, making them more enthusiastic and effective agents of conservation.
This term has become increasingly popular in both conservation and travel circles, but what exactly does it mean ?
<< Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature and accompanying cultural features both past and present that promote conservation, have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active Socio-Economic involvement of local people .. >>
Most tourism in natural areas today is not Eco Tourism and is not therefore, sustainable. Eco Tourism can be distinguished from nature tourism by its emphasis on conservation, education, traveler responsibility, and active community participation. Specifically, Eco Tourism possesses the following characteristics :
* Conscientious and low impact visitor behavior
* Sensitivity towards and appreciation of local cultures and biodiversity
* Support for local conservation efforts
* Sustainable benefits to local communities
* Local participation in decision making
* Educational components for both the traveler and local communities
It is becoming evident that increased tourism to sensitive natural areas in the absence of appropriate planning and management can become a threat to the integrity of both Eco Systems and local cultures. Increasing numbers of visitors to ecologically sensitive areas can lead to significant environmental degradation. Likewise, local communities and indigenous cultures can be harmed in numerous ways by an influx of foreign visitors and wealth. Additionally, fluctuations in climate, currency exchange rates, and political and social conditions can make over dependence upon tourism a risky business.
However, this same growth creates significant opportunities for both conservation and local community benefit. Eco Tourism can provide much needed revenues for the protection of national parks and other natural areas, revenues that might not be available from other sources. Additionally, Eco Tourism can provide a viable economic development alternative for local communities with few other income generating options. Moreover, Eco Tourism can increase the level of education and activism among travelers, making them more enthusiastic and effective agents of conservation.
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