Eco_tourism and Biodiversity

Due to their ecological value, protected areas, especially those found in the tropics and in less-developed countries, contain many of the world’s greatest ecotourism attractions. These attractions may consist of one or a combination of rare or Endemic Species of flora and fauna, abundant wildlife, high indices of Species Diversity, unusual or spectacular geomorphological formations, or unique historic or contemporary cultural manifestations in a natural context (The Nature Conservancy, 2005).

Some areas have greater potential for realizing the benefits of ecotourism than others. In areas with low visitation, the potential is not usually clear. In others, tourism may already be an important factor. Not all tourism visits to natural areas is called ecotourism (The Nature Conservancy, 2005). Nature tourism, as opposed to ecotourism, may lack the mechanisms for mitigating impacts on the environment and fail to demonstrate respect for the local culture.

Economically, nature tourism is also booming (The Nature Conservancy, 2005). Globally, the rate of growth of ecotourism is 5 percent and even higher in a country to country basis. Conventional tourism, on the other hand, has only 4.1 percent.

Ecotourism has become an important economic activity in natural areas around the world. It provides opportunities for visitors to experience powerful manifestations of nature and culture, and to learn about the importance of Biodiversity Conservation and local cultures. At the same time, ecotourism generates income for conservation and economic benefits for communities living in rural and remote areas (The Nature Conservancy, 2005).

Joint research in ecotourism is a necessary tool in management of ecotourism activities. There is a need for long-term research on issues, as well as the investigation of other sites experiencing tourist pressures. Research is also needed to determine what levels and rates of tourist traffic trigger negative impacts on wild life. This will enable park managers to set levels that will minimize the impacts on the biodiversity the parks are established to protect. In effect, science-based management of ecotourism and biodiversity conservation would make sound decision-making.

Investing in research makes good business sense since the information generated in such activities pay off in customer satisfaction, value of the final tourist product, long-term economic sustainability, and appeal to mass media. Promoting community-based enterprises that benefit the local communities, including carrying capacity of ecotourism sites are also important aspects that should be looked into.