Transformative Travel And The 7 Principles of Ecotourism
Mass tourism is destroying the environment and diminishing the cultural resources of popular tourist destinations all over the world by displacing the locals.
We believe a more mindful form of tourism is possible that can not only transform local communities that rely on communities but also transform the lives of tourists by teaching them through experiential learning about sustainability, cultural traditions and the interconnectedness of nature.
If you want to explore the potential of transformative travel, sustainability and ecotourism when you’re planning your next adventure here are some questions to ask:
1. Does the tourism business you are booking with have a sustainability policy on their website?
2. Do they have any certification that document their commitment to sustainable tourism?
3. Are your accommodations locally operated or run by a multinational corporation to maximize profit?
4. Do they tell their story of their involvement in the local community and conservation efforts?
5. Are they following the 7 principles of ecotourism that support a mindful tourism model?
The 7 Principles of Ecotourism
Martha Honey of the Center for Responsible Travel has written about Ecotourism and Sustainable Development where she outlines 7 principles of ecotourism:
- Travel to natural areas
- Minimize impact
- Build environmental awareness
- Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
- Provide economic benefits and power to local communities
- Respect local cultures
- Support human rights and democratic movements
The United Nation’s Definition of Ecotourism
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) defines ecotourism as all tourism having the following characteristics:
- All nature-based forms of tourism in which the primary motivation of the tourist is the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas.
- Contains educational and interpretation features.
- Generally organized by specialized tour operators for small groups. Service provider partners at the destinations tend to be minor, locally-owned businesses.
- Minimizes negative impacts on the natural and socio-cultural environment.
- Supports the maintenance of natural areas which are used as ecotourism attractions by:
- Generating economic benefits for host communities, organizations and authorities managing natural areas with conservation purposes;
- Providing alternative employment and income opportunities for local communities;
- Increasing awareness towards conserving natural and cultural assets among locals and tourists.
In a nutshell, ecotourism offers an alternative to mass tourism that often displaces local communities, pollutes the environment and provides cookie cutter experiences.
Instead, the focus of ecotourism is on sustainability and preserving the environment, protecting wildlife and cultural resources, and providing an opportunity for experiential learning about the interconnectedness of nature.
