Brighton Peace and Environment Centre
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.
Ecotourism should aim to meet the following principles:
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 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.
As an ecotourist, one should be aware of the following points and make choices accordingly:
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