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Eco-Tourism for Dummies: A How-To for First-Time Ecotourists

© Colleen Kaleda

So, you ask, exactly what is responsible tourism? How do I know if I'm an environmentally and culturally responsible traveler? Usually being eco-responsible falls directly in line with being a generally sensitive, mostly independent traveler. But how do you know if you're doing everything you can?

Let's get a little more specific. The Ecotourism Society, based in Alexandria, Virginia, defines ecotourism as "responsible travel that conserves natural environs and sustains the well-being of local people."

If this sounds a bit ambiguous to you, don't despair. You're in the same boat as most people. Even those in the ecotourism industry (a fairly new industry, at that) are still trying to figure what exactly "ecotourism" means. The Society goes further than most tour operators do by suggesting that true ecotourism offer travelers two distinct opportunities:

-- To assist personally in the conservation of threatened environments

-- To support communities seeking viable economic alternatives to cycles of environmental destruction and poverty

Not bad for a vacation in the woods, eh?

So how do you do it? What if you want to go on a tour? It really is pretty easy, provided you take some time to research your activities before you jump. And going on a tour is okay, too, provided you view the operator with a critical eye.

The Ecotourism Society suggests posing the following questions to yourself and to tour operators or hotel owners before plunking down your cash. I've adapted them for easy reading and use:

1. Are people and destinations depicted realistically in the brochures?

2. Is there a conservation and education emphasis?

3. Does the operator offer visitor guidelines?

4. Is there mention of ethical and legal responsibilities and restrictions?

5. Is an effort being made to reduce the environmental impact of tourists?

6. Are non-scarce fuel sources being used?

7. Where does your garbage go and where does plumbing waste end up?

8. Does the tour respect local customs and allow you to meet locals?

9. Who benefits from the cost of your trip?

10. How much of your money remains in the community?

11. Does the operator donate profit percentages to local environmental organizations?

12. What advocacy groups does the operator belong to?

13. Are guides locals?

14. Will I be in small or large groups?

15. Will there be opportunities to support local businesses?

The Center for Responsible Tourism, in San Anselmo, CA, has also drawn up the following "Code of Ethics" worth thinking about prior to and during your travels.

1. If you want a home away from, why travel?