Question

Describe the origin of ecotourism then formulate a comprehensive definition. List and define the five basic principles of ecotourism development.

Answer 1

Answer:

origin of ecotourism: Since the 1960s we have become increasingly concerned over peace, human rights, and the environmental and landscape destruction of our planet and in the subsequent stages the concern of socio-cultural dimension are focused. These ideological changes are reflected and adapted in the changing face of the travel and tour industry worldwide.

The responsible tourism or eco-friendly tourism movement evolved in the 1970s as a reaction to many negative consequences of tourism prostitution, crime, drugs trafficking, cultural devastation, destruction of natural landscape and natural resources, and economic discrepancies. The movement grew to include cultural organisations, educational groups, ethnic institutions and friendship tours.

Active participation and grassroot involvement of local communities at different level is felt. Benefit sharing was greatly highlighted where the local community stands at the core of the debate. Conservationists and planners were realised the role of community in controlling the wilderness of the tourist destinations.

These new forms of tourism helped facilitate international conferences, the formation of local community organisations at different level, as well as other alliances among progressive organisations.

comprehensive definition: Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial mass tourism. It means responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, and improving the well-being of the local people.

five basic principles of ecotourism development:

1. It avoids negative impacts that can damage or destroy the character of the natural or cultural environments being visited.
2. It educates the traveller on the importance of conservation.
3. It directs revenues to the conservation of natural areas and the management of protected areas.
4. It brings economic benefits to local communities and directs revenues to local people living near the protected areas.
5. It emphasizes the need for planning and sustainable growth of the tourism industry and seeks to ensure that tourism development does not exceed the social and environmental “capacity.”

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