Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, with an annual revenue of almost $500 billion. Ecotourism and ethical tourism are its fastest growing sector, as both individual holidaymakers, organisations and even governments make the conscientious choice.

What is ecotourism?

The International Ecotourism Society [1] (TIES) defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

Ecotourism should aim to meet the following principles:

• Minimise impact to the environment
• Build environmental and cultural awareness
• Yield financial benefits for conservation
• Financial gain and empowerment for locals
• Sensitise to political, environmental and social climate of the country
• Support human rights and labour agreements

Why is ecotourism a good idea?

Ecotourism can present a sustainable alternative for the development of natural areas. For instance, the government of Gabon announced in 2002 that 11% of its land would be protected, generating income through ecotourism, also representing security for highly valuable tracts of rainforest.

There are great examples of successful ecotourism. The award winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Borneo is a model of sustainable ecotourism. The lodge is built on stilts to minimise soil erosion and vegetation damage. It is entirely self-suffiencient, using solar energy and rainwater. Electric motor boats are used for tours to reduce noise and water pollution. Another example is the Tanjung Putin National Park Orang Outang reserve in Borneo. Tours are limited to 12 individuals who are also invited to take part in Orang Outang research programs.

Ecotourism has been shown to benefit local people. For instance, the Maasai are a group of cattle herders in Kenya and Tanzania. Their job opportunities were very limited in the past. However, they have succeeded in preserving their land through the creation of cultural villages and wildlife sanctuaries. They operate their own ecotourist tours which generate valuable income.

Ecotourism...not always a positive outcome.

Ecotourism may not be the best option for the environment and local people if it is not managed properly. Ecotourism, though springing from a well-intentioned idea, is a profit-making business, and the ecofriendly image is a powerful marketing tool. Much of the revenue goes to airlines and tour operators. There is also concern that large scale tourist operations will harm the environment in pristine natural areas. For example, Malaysia's ecotourist locations are all overused, which will lead to the building of more locations, encroaching further on primary rainforest.

The business of econtourism may also have serious side effects. The Galapagos Islands' ecotourist industry attracted such a high number of job-seeking migrants that the population tripled, putting pressure on resources.

Many ecotourism locations support small populations of highly endangered species, which are often the location's main attraction. Even minimal tourism disturbs their habitats and could potentially cause endangerment or extinction. Feeding by tourists has been known to alter animals' behaviour, causing them to become aggressive and lazy.

There are other negative effects on local societies. The commercialisation and Westernization of the local culture can spoil indigenous traditions. Ecotourism can market and foster stereotypes which are crucial in the Western construction of the ‘exotic other.’ Locals can become dependent on unreliable sources of income from low-paid, seasonal jobs such as tour guide or souvenir shop keeper.

What is needed?

• Monitoring and impact assessment in ecotourist locations. The right balance should be established between visitors' access to the environment, and the protections of that environment.
• Enforcement of regulations. For instance, wild animals should not be fed in the majority of cases.
• Education of ecotourists upon arrival, to raise awareness about conservation goals.

The responsible ecotourist

As an ecotourist, one should be aware of the following points and make choices accordingly:

• Meeting western standards of food, accommodation and transport represents
  significant pressure on local resources. Instead, supporting local facilities already in place is a more economically viable option, even though five star hotel comfort may not be found.

• Beware of the “Ecofacade”. The responsible ecotourist should inquire about local conservation plans and benefits to local populations.
• Small scale businesses, with very limited visitor numbers, are usually a more environmentally friendly option.
• Never buy souvenirs made from endangered species (skin/ fur/ ivory).
• Park regulations should be followed strictly: they are vital to the survival of the environment.
• You can do more than just visiting - take part in local conservation!

USEFUL REFERENCES:

• The International Ecotourism Society [2]
• Play a fun game to learn about sustainable ecotourism [3]
• International Ecotourism club [4]
• Responsible Travel [5]
• Tourism Concern [6]
• Massive growth of Ecotourism worries biologists, New Scientist, 4th March 2004

Available in the BPEC library:

• The Green Travel Guide, 1986, Neale. G.
• Holidays that don't cost the Earth, 1992, Elkington, J. and Hailes, J.
• The Community Tourism Guide, 2000, Mann, M.
• Tourism: Environment and Development Perspectives, 1990, Mason, P.