Ecotourism 101

Ecotourism and You

We had an argument in the office the other day on what constitutes to be “Ecotourism”. This is so, because of the higher interest we are seeing amongst travelers who flock to South East Asia who are inspired by its natural beauty and wonder. Yet, we cannot deny the fact that a certain degree of exploitation does occur when travelers visit such sites that are supposed to be undisturbed by any form of human involvement especially tourism.

“Ecotourism” is best defined to be “responsible or ethical travel during which tourists try their best to minimize environmental impact and ensure their spending and presence benefits the local community.”

There are many critiques toward the impact of what Ecotourism brings. Building tourist infrastructure itself and maintaining its facilities and activities commit towards environmental degradation especially consuming untouched natural territory.

There are also the threats of displacement of local indigenous people and their culture which will eventually lead to the mismanagement of these locals’ economy and lifestyle.

The term “responsible” and “ethical” are rather vague that all of us here, had a hard time trying to define it, but we came up with a list of standards that we felt were fundamental in you deciding in which travel agency/operator to choose for your next “Ecotourism” trip.

• Check on how your travel operator is trying to minimize the environmental impact that you will create during your trip, i.e. Human waste, garbage, carbon emission.

• Check if your operator or place of lodging incorporates practices for sustainable energies like solar power, water conservation or any recycling practices.

• What are the conservation programmes that are being initiated by the travel operator to ensure that the wildlife (plants and animals) of the area is being well protected and well taken care of and how your money goes into these programmes.

• Your travel operator should also be clear on how your trip will contribute towards the well being of the local community. Not only in a financial aspect but also from an environmental, cultural and physical sense through good environmental practices as well as human volunteering time.

• local culture, flora and fauna being the main attractions

• Do not be duped by the term “eco’ that are often used by irresponsible operators or tour agencies as part of their marketing campaign.


So before you embark on your next Ecotourism destination be sure that your good intent and hard earned money goes to the right places and the right people.