Bad Eco-Tourism Does More Harm Than Good

Bad Eco-Tourism Does More Harm Than Good

By Rosemary Grace Brooks

Tourism is a booming industry. With many travellers flocking to different destinations around the globe, tourism is becoming one of the most viable business markets in the world. However, air travel, car travel and other aspects of tourism are adding to the planet's pollution crisis and this is becoming a problem. Travel operators and hospitality corporates realised that some action needed to be taken, and Eco-tourism was created as a solution to this problem.

Eco-tourism is now one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry. Eco-tourism involves the conservation of biological and cultural diversity through education of locals and tourists alike. By protecting ecosystems it has had a positive effect on the local communities and their livelihoods through their participation in projects and lessening the impact on the environment.

Why Eco-Tourism?

A tourist operator who offers eco-tourism is basically an operator who makes no negative impact on the environment and helps to sustain and promote the life of the local ecosystems.

Their activities should not pollute the local surroundings and have a mutually beneficial relationship with local residents through education of how to sustain themselves without damaging the environment. In South Africa, teaching locals how to make crafts from empty cans and used containers to minimise litter and help create a source of income is one example of this. The tour operator should also be involved in the education of locals concerning the environment and teaching them how to live in harmony with it, instead of destroying it.

There are many benefits to eco-tourism, yet many hospitality providers claim they offer eco-tourism holidays and accommodation when they do not. Governments and tourism providers are leaning towards the promotion of anything which involves nature as eco-tourism, allowing activities which are not based upon sustainable development of the environment and communities.

Tourism ventures such as low-impact tourism, green tourism, bio-tourism and ecologically responsible tourism are advertised as eco-tourism when they do not fall under this category realistically.

The Problems with Fake Eco-Tourism

"Green washing" is a term used to describe the occurrence of a tourism operator claiming to offer eco-friendly holidays when they are in fact, environmentally destructive. This practice involves the commercialisation of tourism involving nature and some ecological projects as eco-tourism. Many people flock to these tourism operators and end up doing more damage to the environment than if they had not used a 'green' operator. They are destructive towards the environment, are insensitive towards cultural needs and exploit the tourism economy. They are also misleading to tourists as they appeal to the desire to help the environment which tourists have, yet destroy the environment, not giving the tourists what they have asked for.

Despite some operators meeting the guidelines, there may still be a negative impact on the environment and local communities. Eco-tourism operators need to have a thoroughly positive impact on the environment with few, if not no negative impacts. If there is a negative impact, this should be counter acted by some kind of compensatory action such as planting trees and so forth.

South Africa is currently reaping many economic benefits from eco-tourism but there are still problems with displacement of people, violations of constitutional rights and negative impact on the environment from tourism activities.

An eco-tourism operator should be involved in investing in the local ecosystems and conservation. Rejuvenation of the natural resources and the education of locals in living in harmony with these ecosystems is paramount to eco-tourism. Education of tourists, assisting the livelihoods of locals in supporting themselves without negative environmental impact and the conservation of biological and cultural diversity should be not only endorsed but achieved through eco-tourism. Money generated from eco-tourism should also be invested in furthering conservation efforts.

About the Author:

Grootbos Private Game reserve is a nature reserve in Gansbaai which is an eco-tourism venture with eco friendly luxury accommodation, nature adventures for guests and is responsible for founding the Grootbos Foundation. Grootbos conserves the local flora and fauna, helps locals with sustainable development and educates tourists and locals in how to conserve the habitats and ecosystems occurring in Gansbaai and to live without having a negative impact on the environment. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rosemary_Grace_Brooks

Eco-Friendly Touring - Ten Easy Things You Can Do to Help the Environment

Eco-Friendly Touring - Ten Easy Things You Can Do to Help the Environment

By Ruth Seebeck

Reduce, reuse, recycle. You've heard it for years. But what can you do to help the environment while you travel? Here are some tips to make it easy for your travel to be eco-friendly.

1. Over two-thirds of air pollution in US cities is from auto emissions. The good news is car rental companies are experimenting with eco-friendly vehicles in some US cities. In the meantime, bus and train travel cut both pollution and the number of vehicles on the road. Rent a bike, use local transit or stay within walking distance of your targeted tourist sites. Use the airport shuttle or share a cab. If you're parked or stuck in traffic, turn off the engine.

2. Fly Southwest or Virgin Airlines - the industry leaders for eco-friendly travel. Southwest has adopted a policy of recycling all cabin waste and uses electronic ticketing throughout their system, reducing paper waste. Virgin Airlines has made mega-donations to developing 'green' solutions for air travel, and is a leader in implementing a system of towing planes to a take-off grid, resulting in less fuel consumption, less noise, and reduced CO2 emissions. Other airlines are working to adopt 'green' policies. You can reduce carbon emissions by choosing a closer destination or finding alternative transportation. If your schedule permits, travel by train or bus to your destination. Also consider making a donation to an organization that provides 'carbon offsets' toward your CO2 travel usage, basically a donation to help develop 'green' resources such as solar power or reforestation.

3. Take advantage of 'green' hotel policies by reusing your sheets and towels if you are staying more than one night. The savings in energy and water costs and detergent usage are significant. It's been estimated that at least 70% of guests take advantage of this simple idea. Use your own shampoo and soap instead of the mini-bottles and bars provided in most hotels.

4. Take shorter showers (Remember - in some areas, water is a limited resource. Your luxurious long shower could be depriving a native family of precious water.) Turn off the TV and lights if you're not in the room, and monitor your heat and A/C usage. Turn the thermostat off if you're going to be gone for an extended period during the day. Use a refillable water bottle and recycle wherever possible.

5. Pick an eco-friendly destination, also known as sustainable tourism. Enjoy local markets, native sites, and a natural environment. 'Leave it better than you found it', or at least strive to have a neutral impact on the area. Visit parks and local nature areas so your dollars can support the eco-economy. Orbitz (eco.orbitz.com/) has developed a list of 'green' destinations in the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly travel.

6. If you're idea of a great day-away is aboard a boat, be aware of your fueling practices. Leakage at the nozzle, overflowing the fuel tank, leaky hoses or maintenance issues all contribute to stress of the water environment. Keep absorbent pads aboard to mop up possible spills and dispose of the material properly. Do not use soap to clean up a fuel spill. Use propylene glycol to winterize water lines, not common car anti-freeze which is highly poisonous to animals. And if your yacht has on-board facilities, dispose of sewage and wastewater properly.

7. Before you leave home, stop your newspaper delivery; pull the plugs on appliances (TV, VCR/DVD player, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, etc.) to prevent energy drain. Turn down your thermostat and hot water tank, and turn off the A/C.

8. Find solar-powered radios, cell-phone chargers, calculators and other 'powered' items to pack. This market is growing, and solar power has no impact on the environment. It's a true eco-friendly sustainable resource. Use a digital rather than a film camera.

9. Buy eco-friendly souvenirs. Don't purchase items that could possibly be made from endangered species. Support the local economy so that your tourist dollars benefit the natives' endeavors.

10. When you get home, write to your hotel and other travel providers to let them know you appreciate their 'green' initiatives. Your dollars speak loudly in the tourism industry and will influence travel and tourism in the areas you visit. Plan carefully to support travel companies, destination purveyors and suppliers who support your 'green' initiative.

The world is a wonderful place, and we can all do more to support 'green' initiatives. Adapt these suggestions at home as well as on the road so travelers to your hometown will also experience an eco-friendly vacation.

Add your comments to this article. And for more vacation ideas and a free subscription to our travel-zine, go tohttp://www.touringwithus.com Mini-vacations are a great way to reduce your stress levels and add excitement to your life. Sample a free chapter of our new multi-media ebook at http://www.magicalminivacations.com Good travels! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Seebeck

Eco Tourism Entrepreneur

Eco Tourism Entrepreneur

By Ezra Drissman

For some people, eco-tourism means going to the areas where the environment is still fairly untouched and pristine. To others it has a much broader scope than that, and means that you do everything you can, to make the trip you are taking eco-conscious, including how you get there and what you do once you arrive.

First, decide what eco-tourism means to you. Will you take groups to the rainforest and show them the wonders and beauty that are being destroyed every day? Will you guide people to a mountain stream and let them see what clean, clear, beautiful water looks like? Or, will you be a travel agent that helps people make more eco-aware travel plans including booking them into green hotels once they reach their destination? Will you suggest activities that are eco-friendly?

What Education do I need?

You will need a degree in Tourism and Travel Services in most places and in others you will only need a certificate to get started in an agency. If you plan to open your own agency then make sure that you start with all of the education you can possibly get. A business degree is also helpful, if you are going to be running your own business.

What are the Initial Investments?

You will need an office to work from, some working knowledge of the industry and the ability to market yourself as a better choice than the others in your area. Other costs might include your computer system and the necessary software to run this type of business.

Who is the Target Market?

Those who want to lessen their carbon footprint, but still want to travel. For some it will be the adventure of going to places that are not typically thought of as vacation destinations.

What are the Drawbacks?

Many people protest the thought of eco-tourism that travels to the rainforest or other areas, regardless of how careful they are when they do so- any impact on these areas can be dangerous they say. The more people that travel here, the more likely problems will arise.

Eco-tourism does not have to mean traipsing along in the rainforest snapping pictures and pointing at trees. It can mean that you do your traveling to other destinations in greener, more energy efficient ways. You do not rent a car and putter around Italy when you could take walking tours instead. You see far more and learn more about the real, local flavor when you are out walking anyway. You only stay in hotels that have been deemed green- they recycle everything possible and compost food wastes. They do not wash linens for every day of your stay unless you actually request it. Paper waste is kept to a minimum. They use locally grown food products on their menu.

Eco-tourism as business can be useful to steer people to the cities and destinations that are making the effort.

GreenCareersGuide.com is the #1 green careers website on Google. We have the most comprehensive database of articles on green jobs. Whatever your stage of life, we have you covered. Green careers, green training, and green entrepreneurship articles are only a small part of our exhaustive green career site. There are tremendous upsides to having a green career.http://www.GreenCareersGuide.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ezra_Drissman

Famous Eco Tourism Destinations

Famous Eco Tourism Destinations

By Mithi Dey

Eco-tourism:

With concerning the different aspects of travel and tourism, Eco-tourism is now appealing the conscious individuals both socially and ecologically. As of now every nook and corner of the world celebrates World Environment Day on June 5th, every year and believe to plant even a small tree in their premises.

Eco-tourism Travel Destination:

Eco-tourism features the vibrancy of flora and fauna, which are the proud treasures on the Earth. And owing to their safety a number government approved wild hubs and parks have been set up in the various countries of the world.

Wildlife Parks, South Africa

The wild life gallery in South Africa features the 292 mammals, 13 endangered, 15 vulnerable and 13 near-threatened species, which are highly looked at by the visitors. Yet, Eco-tourism in the country is still at infancy, responsible parties and environmentalist are directly involved in the nature-based tourism here.

Majuli Island in Assam, India

This largest river Island in India is located in the Brahmaputra valley in Assam and covers an area of 1080 sq.km. The island features the snow-capped mountains or the warbling mountain springs and Eco-friendly visitors often find the place as a paradise on earth.

Kerala, India

The tourist friendly state-Kerala in India shimmers with the waving green banana leaves and coconut groves. The vast landscape carpeted with the tea-plantation is not only meant for Ayurveda but also to appreciate the greenery overlooking the backwaters. Besides, the wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala like Periyar, Wynad, Silent Valley and Eravikulam are popular ecotourism destinations.

Tips for an Eco-friendly holiday

Eco-friendly trip is indifferent from any other types of tour activities. But the place of pristine natural beauty comes under threat with the ecological imbalance or rather careless task of human-beings.

There fore, before participating in any Eco-friendly tour programme, check out some handy tips, cited as follows:

Avoid picking up or playing with marine animals.

Avoid ordering sea foods caught using destructive methods such fish bombing, drift net fishing and cyanide poisoning.

Try out the environment friendly water-sports like sailing, surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling in pollution free area.

Know how to avoid disturbing marine lives and do collect dead specimens on the beach and not in the water.

Abide by the rules of Wild Life Conservation Act and impart education about Eco-tourism across the different corners of the world.

Contact http://www.indianbeaches.net/ and know more. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mithi_Dey