Contributed by Luke Smith
Eco-tourism is an environmentally-friendly way to travel the world and see incredible sights. Usually, it involves visiting ecologically-sensitive areas that need protection from tourists and travelers.
Eco-tourism is undoubtedly better for the planet than traditional tourism, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t “tourism”. Even if your trip to the safari directly funds better ecological protection, you still need to account for the impact that your trip will have on the world at large. In particular, you need to consider the carbon cost of travel and should find additional ways to reduce the impact that human activity has on the great outdoors.
Fossil Fuels
Travel comes with a cost. Even if you skip the airfare and drive to your next vacation spot, you still emit fossil fuels to get from point A to point B. While this shouldn’t put you off traveling entirely, consider taking some steps to reduce your use of fossil fuels while engaging in eco-tourism.
If you’re planning to fly, you may want to consider purchasing carbon offsets to cancel out the greenhouse gases you emit during travel. Carbon offsets aren’t a perfect science and some firms have been caught using carbon offsets as a form of greenwashing. However, they can help you make a positive contribution to organizations and projects that aim to reduce carbon in the atmosphere.
If you want to reduce your use of fossil fuels, try to make your mode of transport as fuel-efficient as possible. If you’re driving, reduce your vehicle’s carbon footprint by investing in an electric vehicle and changing your driving habits to reduce the amount of fuel you use while driving.
Wildlife Safety
Sustainable tourism projects can improve your ecological connection with the land and promote an ethos of environmental stewardship. Traveling with a purpose can also be fulfilling and helps to raise awareness and support for conservation efforts.
However, some eco-tourism opportunities actually harm the natural world and its inhabitants. Usually, this occurs when tourists are allowed to get too close to wildlife and disrupt their natural behaviors. For example, in Hawaii, manta dives attract over 400 tourists a night. This tourism hotspot puts manta rays’ safety at risk, as the boats and divers may injure the animals.
Traveling with Dogs
If you’re a nature lover, you may have a canine pal who accompanies you on all your backpacking excursions and hikes. The company that dogs bring can be extremely rewarding but when left unchecked, pets can hurt eco-tourist destinations, including the ecosystem and wildlife.
You can reduce the impact your dog has on the natural world by following trail etiquette for dog owners. Start by learning about the place you are due to visit, as many national parks limit off-leash dog walking. You should always follow leash-related guidance, as the rules exist to protect the environment that you and your dog are enjoying.
Remember that some areas are completely off-limits for dogs. Dogs who venture beyond their designated areas risk injuring themselves and causing ecological harm. Always check that the area you plan to visit is dog-friendly before you book and never try to sneak your little pal in.
You also need to ensure that your pooch is fully vaccinated and doesn’t leave behind any poop. Dog droppings can be extremely harmful to wild animals and unvaccinated pooches can spread disease through vulnerable wildlife populations.
Ongoing Support
Eco-tourism is supposed to support long-term conservation efforts. However, many people enjoy their vacation and do little to follow up on the experience they’ve had.
If you’ve visited an eco-tourism area, maximize the impact of your travels by spreading the word through your social media channels. A simple Instagram post or YouTube video can make a real difference to the cause you want to support. Consider reaching out to the organizing company before you post your content, as they may have extra information and resources for you to share.
You may also be able to get involved in fundraisers. Many charitable organizations need extra funding to see their projects through and will benefit from any form of income. Just be sure to touch base before you start collecting donations, as most wildlife organizations and charities have specific rules for fundraising.
You can support our project by making a direct donation through The Ocean Foundation website to keep our operation and Beach CleanUp afloat.
Conclusion
Eco-tourism is a great way to see the world while promoting an ethos of environmental stewardship. However, all travel comes with a cost. You can minimize your impact by working with accredited organizations that protect wildlife safety and offset their carbon footprint. You can also offer ongoing support after your trip through social media awareness posts and fundraisers.
About Luke Smith
Luke Smith is a researcher turned writer and blogger. With a background in science, Luke brings his expertise and enthusiasm to his work, and hopes to share genuinely helpful information and science news. When he isn’t writing, you can find Luke taking photographs, traveling, or learning about the latest tech.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media