What is Eco-Tourism?

An Introduction to Eco-Tourism.

Sustainable travel, mindful travel, green tourism, responsible travel, and ethical tourism— all buzzwords for the up-and-coming industry trend of eco-tourism. By definition, eco-tourism is the “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the wellbeing of local people, and involves interpretation and education” (International Ecotourism Society, 2015). 

Global warming, pollution, and social issues have increased travelers’ awareness of the impact their presence can have on the places they visit. More and more people are interested in minimizing the negative effect of tourism and giving back. Now more than ever, travelers want to protect the culture and environment of the places they travel to.

Why is Eco-Tourism Important?

Hawaii, for example, has been in the news for protests from locals against the tourism industry. Irresponsible travelers damage native lands, ignore safety signs and become an overall nuisance to the people and wildlife that live there. The construction of new hotels and attractions destroys the land and devastates Hawaii’s precious resources. The Hawaiian culture, language, and food are used as a gimmick at tacky resorts and restaurants. Every day, Hawaiian people fight to protect their sacred land and culture.

Cozumel, Mexico is regarded as one of the best snorkel and diving spots in the entire world. But run-offs from cruise ships and careless land development have threatened its coral reefs and wildlife. 

These are just a few of the issues that tourism-heavy places face daily. Many companies see dollar signs when it comes to the tourism industry, especially now that Covid-19 protocols have been relaxed around the world. It’s very easy to ignore the issues, especially in a place you may only visit once. However, I argue that leaning into these uncomfortable topics will make your trip more enjoyable in the long run.

Sea turtle swimming
Beautiful wildlife like Cozumel’s green sea turtles are under threat from pollution and over-exploitation.

What Eco-Tourism Means to Me.

I know that probably sounds crazy. The sad reality of tourism is that it often creates many problems for the local people and the environment. However, that doesn’t mean we should stop traveling altogether. Travel has many benefits for your health and your brain too!

Travel makes you more open-minded, tolerant, creative, and confident. We learn a lot about ourselves and others when we travel and become exposed to different viewpoints and ways of living.

Learning about the issues makes us more connected to our destination. We understand the challenges facing the places we visit, and in turn, can positively change our behavior. We consiously decide to enjoy a place while also trying to avoid being a part of the problem. Treating the land and people with respect means that we will all get to enjoy these beautiful destinations for many years to come. But it starts with us.

My Most Memorable Moment as an Eco-Tourist.

Some of my most memorable moments while traveling was when I participated in a turtle rescue in Cozumel, Mexico. I assisted in the collection and relocation of a leatherback sea turtle nest. 

We went out with the local turtle salvation group on the island, and the team spotted a large leatherback sea turtle female laying her clutch too close to the ocean’s rough waves. It was the first time I had ever been that close to a sea turtle, especially one of that size. While she laid the eggs one by one, the team and I collected them in a bucket. We returned to base and I dug a new hole and laid the eggs inside. We also released a few baby turtles by moonlight, a very rewarding moment for me.

It was a life-changing excursion for me. I immediately realized the positive impact that we can have, even as travelers. Ever since, I have been very passionate about eco-tourism and encourage it to everyone I can.

girl digging a hole in sand
Here I am in 2014 digging a new nest for rescued sea turtle eggs!

How Does One Practice Eco-tourism?

There are many, many ways to be a more respectful tourist. This is by all means not a checklist, but rather some ideas for those wanting to incorporate ecotourism into their next trip. 

  • Make an effort to learn about some of the general issues facings locals. Research your location and its culture, and learn how to respect local customs.
  • Do your best to fit in and not act like a “tourist”. This will not only get you better treatment but will also make you less of a target for scams overall. 
  • Read up about how colonialism and tourism have affected the area you are traveling to.
  • Consider renting Airbnbs or other local places instead of large resorts or hotels. They are more eco-friendly.
  • If you are planning any activities, consider researching companies owned by locals or those that practice respectful tourism.
  • If you are able, you could sign up to participate in an activity that benefits the local community, such as beach cleaning.
  • Consider low-impact activities to include in your itinerary and some that help you learn about your destination. For example, museums, cultural experiences, kayaking, and hiking (just make sure you practice carry-in-carry out)!
  • Be “hands-off” when it comes to wildlife and local plants. Don’t take, damage, or touch animals and flora.

Summary

The main point is, that the only people that can make the travel industry change are us- the travelers. We get more out of the experience when we realize that we don’t have to contribute to the problems. We can do good when we travel and it becomes an even more fulfilling trip.

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