August 16, 2009

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is: "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990)

video
Principles of Ecotourism:

Ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following ecotourism principles:
  • Minimize impact.
  • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
  • Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
  • Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
  • Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people.
  • Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate.
Ecotourism Facts & Statistics:
Size of Global Tourism:


- As the largest business sector in the world economy, the Travel & Tourism industry is responsible for over 230 million jobs and over 10% of the gross domestic product worldwide.

- In 2006, Travel & Tourism (consumption, investment, government spending and exports) is expected to grow 4.6% and total US$6.5 trillion.

Importance to Tourism in Developing Countries:

- Tourism is a principal “export” (foreign exchange earner) for 83% of developing countries, and the leading export for 1/3 of poorest countries.

- For the world’s 40 poorest countries, tourism is the second most important source of foreign exchange, after oil.

Source: The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)

RELATED LINKS:

0 comments:

 
Disclaimer: The information in this weblog is provided “AS IS” with no warranties, and confers no rights. This weblog does not represent the thoughts, intentions, plans or strategies of the province of Catanduanes, Philippines. It is solely my opinion. Feel free to challenge me, disagree with me, or tell me I’m completely nuts in the comments section of each blog entry, but I reserve the right to delete any comment for any reason whatsoever (abusive, profane, rude, or anonymous comments) – so keep it polite, please.

©2008 - 2011 All Rights Reserved