Ecotourism: A Growing Concern

By Dhruba Rai

The increasing interests of authentic experiences with concern of conservation of natural environment and ecology by tourists have raised the importance of eco-tourism. It has been widely accepted through out the world that it has a tremendous domestic and international market potentiality in future. Recognizing the importance, the United Nations (UN) designated the year 2002 as the International Year of Eco-tourism. The World Tourism Organization (WTO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) jointly prepared and coordinated the event to observe successfully at the international level. Celebrating this event, in such a scale, will prove as a milestone in eco-tourism.

Globally, tourism entrepreneurs have been following the eco-friendly practices from almost two decades, but without much knowing the concept and importance. Though small in numbers, this segment is proving itself one of the fastest growing segments in the industry. More than 35 million Americans said they would be taking eco-tours within three years. Talking about eco-tourism, it is believed that Hector Ceballos Lascurain had first used the term in 1983; he emphasized on tourism activities to relatively undisturbed natural areas for educational purposes. Later, others argued for the conservation of natural environment, cultural heritage in the adjoining areas and sustainable tourism activities. In fact, it is all about having a great holiday responsibly, causing minimum harm to the physical, cultural and social environment. In other words, it's a holiday out in the wilds, which gives an opportunity to admire, learn, study, and realize the facts of nature.

Though all stakeholders in eco-tourism claim that they are practicing and promoting eco-tourism, there are hardly any common priorities among them. Moreover, common efforts are needed to deal with following aspects in eco-tourism. First, educational programs of eco-tourism are vital at all levels. All involved must understand in their own levels about the eco-tourism and its benefits while practicing it. In this context, education may be viewed creating awareness to publics and tourists, conducting training to the local guides and communities as well as organizing workshops and seminars to eco-tour operators etc. Second, a baseline research study is important not only to assess the bio-diversity and natural environment status but also to assess the limits of environmental, cultural and social carrying capacities. It is equally important to set the limits of acceptable changes. This helps in decision making while drafting and adopting strategies and programs regarding eco-tourism. Third, there must be agreed industry standards in the eco-tourism business and a national system of accreditation. This ensures quality services as well as the international image of eco-destination. This image can be a wining edge over international competitors. Creating an inventory of eco-tour operators' profiles with their products and services is also important for monitoring their activities. Fourth, the cost-effective use of energy - such as solar energy, eating dry food-stuff, using recycled papers and bags are some of the practices for promoting eco-tourism. Fifth, there should be, at least, acceptable infrastructures such as view towers, trails etc., but the important thing is the selection of proper sites for building these infrastructures. Though eco-tourism prefers activities in the wilderness; it is also not forcing tourists to live in uncomfortable bare huts and cleaning the environment. Sixth, marketing of eco-tourism is still important, if Nepal could build an image of eco-destination through proper marketing, it would be a strong niche market. Emphasis should be given on eco-friendly practices that the eco-tour operators follow while practicing eco-tourism activities along with the natural beauties and bio-diversity. As tourists are becoming more and more conscious about natures; it is also equally important to follow eco-friendly marketing practices, such as recycled paper brochures, electronic brochures etc. Advertisements and any other forms of promotional activities by any stakeholders should not create false claim regarding the eco-tourism. Last but not the least, the management of the eco-destination is also an important aspect of eco-tourism. It includes not only the conservation and proper use of natural resources and commodification of cultural and social styles and values, but also includes monitoring the activities of tourists and eco-tour operators.

Eco-tourism is very sensitive because a slight interference in an area may cause a heavy cost to other areas. Therefore, a balanced and concerted efforts, form all involved, are required in promoting eco-tourism. At times, it is confusing because of numerous codes of conducts followed by various stakeholders. For this reason, it requires a common concept, guidelines and strategies for planning, developing and managing eco-tourism in a participatory approach. It may be useful to adopt a national eco-tourism strategy like many others in the world.

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