Ecotourism

Definition Ecotourism is defined as a “purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the culture and natural history of the environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the ecosystem, while producing economic opportunities that make the conservation of natural resources beneficial to local people”

Concept and Characteristics of ecotourism According to Chesworth (1995), Ecotourism has six characteristics. These are: a) ecotourism involves travel to relatively undisturbed natural areas and/or archeological sites, b) it focuses on learning and the quality of experience, c) it economically benefits the local communities, d) ecotourists seek to view rare species, spectacular landscapes and/or the unusual and exotic, e) ecotourists do not deplete resources but even sustain the environment or help undo damage to the environment, and f) ecotourists appreciate and respect local culture, traditions, etc.

Two attributes of ecotourism a) Species and ecosystem conservation, and b) livelihood for local communities.

Community-based Ecotourism It also has the following aims: to help preserve ecosystems and natural areas (usually already within protected areas) with a high tourism potential; to cultivate environmental consciousness among the local population by educating them about the dangers of overexploiting resources and unrestricted number of tourists; to promote new economic incentives, e.g. selling of local (environmentally safe) products, crafts, and cultivated medicinal plants thereby create some entrepreneurial skills; to ensure communal ownership and control, and that part of the profits flow into community development programs rather than into personal enrichment; and to foster a feeling of pride and community through a revival or preservation of “traditional” practices and cultural techniques.

Types of Eco-tourists Lindberg (1991) provides a typology of nature/ecotourism types, though many other typologies are possible: · Hard-core: scientific researchers or members of tours specifically designed for education, environmental restoration, or similar purposes. · Dedicated: people who take trips specifically to see protected areas and who want to understand local natural and cultural history. · Mainstream: people who visit exciting and interior destinations primarily to take an unusual trip. · Casual: people who partake of nature incidentally, such as through a day trip during a broader vacation.

BENEFITS / ADVANTAGES OF ECOTOURISM Ecotourism is the fastest growing sector in the international travel industry. The main advantages of Ecotourism are: 1. it provides an excellent source of foreign exchange that can be used by the governments of developing countries to finance economic growth and development 2. Ecotourism and its associated activities is a better form of land use than most agricultural pursuits, especially in arid and semi-arid areas 3. It is a form of economic development that can, if managed correctly, spread revenue to the poorest strata of marginal rural communities. In South Africa it can be a source of restitution for disadvantaged rural communities 4. It is an ‘industry without chimneys’ (that is can promote economic growth with-out damaging the environment) while assisting social and economic development 5. Ecotourism is a ‘peace industry’ because it promotes respect for other cultures and can only safely occur in peaceful areas It can also promote business partnerships between the private sector, conservation authorities and residents located in, or adjacent to, wild areas

Planning Principles For Ecotourism Development For the successful establishment of Ecotourism destinations we have learned from experience that there are certain planning principles that must guide the development. Some of these are: § Apply strict conservation measures to the natural area used for Ecotourism to protect the flora, fauna and ecosystems, and any existing archaeological or historic sites, and local culture § Establish carrying capacity standards so that there is no over development of tourist facilities, or overuse of the environment - ensuring that the resource is not depreciated § Develop small-scale tourist facilities in environmentally suitable locations with locally based designs, use of materials, energy saving devices and proper disposal of waste material. Large scale developments are much more difficult to establish in an environmentally friendly fashion. Develop a visitor centre with exhibits about the site and local conservation attractions should also be developed. § Prepare and distribute Ecotourism codes of conduct for Ecotourists and tour operators, and closely monitor the application of these codes § Provide well trained tour guides who will give accurate information to Ecotourists to educate them on matters of biological diversity, conservation management techniques and requirements, observe good conservation behaviour during tours, and give them a great introduction to social values § Integrate local communities into Ecotourism development by providing them jobs and income.

Scope for Eco tourism in Kerala Thenmala Bhoothathankettu Peruvannamoozhy Thekkady Nelliampathy Konni Kumbalangi Kuruva Thatekkad Poovar

Scope for Eco-Tourism in India Sundarban Eco-Tour Himalayas Andaman and Nicobar Islands Gir National Park Coorg Kodaikanal Sikkim Shimla Uttaranchal Corbett National Park