The simplest way to explain the concept of ecotourism is using two words: traveling responsibly. Simply put, ecotourism is tourism that centers around awareness of the environment and the local community. As an ecotourist, your goal is to visit an area with the well-being of the local people and nature in mind.
Although ecotourism and nature-based tourism are often used interchangeably, technically, they are not the same. Nature-based tourism involves travel directly related to activities in and around nature, whereas ecotourism relates more to the sustainable aspects of traveling.
The most important distinction between the two is that ecotourism is about making different choices that minimize our footprint on the environment and have a positive impact on nature and local people.
You may think ecotourism is an invention of the past decade developed by the tourism industry, but in fact, as early as the 70s, people were traveling mindfully and diminishing their negative impacts.
In the 90s, ecotourism started to be defined, studied, and marketed, and it hasn’t stopped growing ever since.
The first definition of ecotourism was put forth by Ceballos-Lascurain when he coined the term ecotourism defining it as:
“Tourism that involves traveling to relatively undisturbed 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 aspects (both past and present) found in these areas.”
Since then, many different explanations have been offered to define the elements or characteristics that make up ecotourism, which continues to evolve.
In recent years, tourists have become more aware and concerned about leaving a positive impact on the destinations they visit. Moreover, travelers are searching for new ways to experience nature-based and wildlife activities. The demand for ecotourism has increased, with travelers showing more interest in sustainable travel.
In a 2018 Booking.com survey, 87% of global travelers said they wanted to travel sustainably. Being able to help local communities, the environment, and ecosystems while enjoying a well-deserved vacation is the perfect combination.
Sadly, abuse of the ‘ecotourism’ label does exist. But don’t worry, as an ecotourist, you can judge the validity of a destination by considering some factors. The conservation of local cultural and biological diversity is a sign of good ecotourism, and another good sign is the promotion of the sustainable use of resources and local economies. When choosing your accommodation, you can see if it’s environmentally friendly by reviewing their website policies on waste management, recycling, renewable energy use, and energy efficiency.
A little tip: if your next holiday checks all the boxes below, then you will be practicing ecotourism!
The major ecotourism stakeholders that we provide our services to include but are not limited to the following: tourists, suppliers, governments, accommodation providers like hotels, tourism agencies, airline companies, local communities, NGOs, ecological groups, etc.
We have decades of experience in dealing with ecotourism and tourism at large. We have advised governments and other institutions on four continents, and our experts are just the best in the market. We collaborate with the major stakeholders in the industry, providing sustainable and rewarding solutions that fit the needs and demands of our clients. Our client’s goals are personalized; we believe business advice should be too.
BIC Services operates in all of Africa and the Middle East. If you are in a different location, we could also provide consultancy services to you. Kindly contact us to discuss further.
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