Ecotourist

Large-scale tourism in sensitive areas has also had detrimental effects on many natural environments, including rainforests and mountainous areas. Some negative effects on the environment are…


soil erosion and plant damage (often caused by camping, driving or walking on sensitive spots)


disturbance to wildlife (high levels of noise or bright lights in the nesting or breeding grounds can disturb sensitive wildlife)


improper garbage disposal, water contamination, air pollution and loss of biodiversity


Ecotourism is an eco-friendly way of discovering nature. It is a form of tourism that involves responsible travelling to fragile and relatively unspoiled natural areas, especially to support conservation efforts and observe flora and fauna. It aims at minimal environmental impact on the areas visited.


To be an ecotourist, follow the guide to ECOTOURISM.


Here’s a list of dos and don'ts to help you become a eco-friendly tourist and do your best for our natural world while on a vacation. But before setting off on your journey, remember to carry this guide with you!


Visit destinations which have conservation value, such as notional parks, UNESCO World Heritage sites or areas where nature is a key attraction. Some famous World Heritage Sites in India are : Kaziranga National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary and Sundarbans National Park.


Travel light : Limit your baggage and packaging to keep travel-generated garbage at the minimum.


Opt for eco-friendly means of transport. Implement energy and water saving measures. Wherever and whenever possible, opt for bicycles instead of motor vehicles.


Do not use pollutants such as detergent in streams or rivers while washing and bathing.


Many wild animals are in great danger. Do your bit in protecting them by avoiding and discouraging the purchase of souvenirs made from endangered species.


As much as possible keep to the marked treks / trails / routes. See that no damage is done to vegetation.


Wildlife watching activities such as birdwatching or snorkelling around coral reefs can be a wonderful experience. But be careful to not to disturb wildlife.


Do not litter. Carry back all non-degradable waste such as empty bottles, foils, wrappers, metal cans and plastic bags. These must be disposed in municipal dustbins.


When you leave camping areas ensure that they are clean.


While taking photographs do not disturb the wildlife. Do not use flashes, particularly close-up as this can disturb and annoy wild animals and nesting birds.


Minimize noise pollution. Playing radios, tape recorders or other electronic entertainment equipment can disturb sensitive wildlife in sanctuaries and wildlife parks.


Adopted from the writings of Classmates Note Book - ITC – INDIA.