Ecotourism: Exploring the Planet with the Environment in Mind
Ecotourism is a new form of tourism which is designed to be ecologically and socially aware. Although once considered a buzzword for environmentalists, "ecotourism" has become a mainstream concept with travellers and its popularity is increasing. As a result, many travellers, tired of all-inclusive resorts, are making the switch to exploring the planet with environmental awareness.
Travelling the World, Helping the Planet
Defined as both a movement and a form of tourism, ecotourism tends to focus on wilderness, volunteering, personal growth, and local cultural adventures. Ecotourism is designed to promote sustainability and awareness while having a great holiday at the same time. By minimizing the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhancing the cultural integrity of local people, ecotourism is trying to change the way we look at tourism.
Making Your Trip an Eco-Trip
So you've decided that you like the idea of ecotourism, but where do you begin? It's not as hard as you may think. Ideally, true ecotourism is defined by the following concepts:
- Focusing on local culture, flora and fauna
- Minimizing the amount of waste produced during trips (i.e. how much gas you use with a rental car during your vacation)
- Increasing your education of environmental and cultural knowledge
- Promoting sustainability by providing jobs to local populations
- Sharing socio-economic benefits with local communities
Ecotourism: Changing the Way You Travel
If you think you aren't ready to become eco-tourist yet, you may want to reconsider! Ecotourism is making its mark on the planet in many positive ways. In fact, you may already be an eco-tourist without realizing it.
Many hotels throughout the world have begun to adopt new business practices as a result of changing attitudes towards tourism. Here are some examples that you may already have experienced:
- Installation of solar panels in some hotels to heat water
- Installation of water conservation shower heads and toilets
- Changing laundry temperatures to conserve heat
- Forcing golf courses to manage fertilizer waste in a more environmentally-friendly way
- Changing the way hotels recycle
- Offering a towel reuse program where guest change their linens every two-three days instead of daily
The concept of ecotourism is becoming more popular every year. On your next holiday, try something new - consider going on holiday in the most environmentally friendly way.
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