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Eco-tourism

For many hardened environmentalists the term 'eco-tourism' is quite simply an oxymoron. But if you’re not prepared to sacrifice a well earned break and a chance to see a bit more of the world then it is one guilt-free option. By spending your holiday somewhere that focuses on putting something back into the environment or local communities it is possible to help directly and have a positive influence.

For example, visiting semi-autonomous national parks in countries like Kenya can make a huge difference because the entrance fees you pay can be ploughed directly back into conserving the biological or cultural diversity of the area. Many of these parks quite simply depend upon the revenues produced by this sort of tourism and it is fair to say that as a result it can play a crucial role in conserving local eco-systems. And besides helping the environment, eco-tourism has a significant part to play in helping to create sustainable economies both at the local level and for developing nations as a whole.

But buyers beware. It’s not just a simple matter of going on a wilderness adventure holiday in Nepal, hiring a local guide to show you nesting turtles in Costa Rica or volunteering your time to help plant trees. The presence of ecotourism can help promote destructive markets in wildlife souvenirs, commercially motivated tourism outfits dressed up to look like they are eco-friendly, and even eco-activities with the best of intentions can lead to undesirable knock-on effects. Eco-tourism can lead to increased rates of prostitution, the erosion of local culture and the physical displacement of local people as governments channel efforts into this money-making industry.

Perversely, it can also lead to environmental degradation since eco-tourism outfits often fail to live up to their own conservation expectations or underestimate the impact tourism has on the local environment. Lastly, much of the money generated by eco-tourism ends up pocketed by large foreign organisations.

For guidance on choosing the most responsible eco-tourism destination, contact the International Ecotourism Society.