Ecotourism: the success of green tourism
The notion of ecotourism is synonymous with responsibility and respect for the planet. It is indeed possible to travel differently to discover certain regions of the world, as well as many culturally remarkable places, while drastically limiting the ecological impact of one’s visit on the environment and local populations.
What is ecotourism?
The concept of ecotourism was born about thirty years ago and has grown exponentially since the 2000s. This form of “ecological” tourism attracts more and more people who have become aware of the impact of their consumption behaviors on the health of our planet. Ecotourism aims to be respectful of both the environment of the places visited and the local populations. Travelers choosing ecotourism are generally eager to immerse themselves in nature and discover particular or exotic ecosystems. The primary goal of this concept is therefore to limit the ecological footprint of tourists and to offer an alternative to mass tourism, which is quite disastrous for the environment while providing little benefit to local populations.
Which destinations can ecotourism take you to?
It is not necessary to travel to the ends of the earth to adopt the “ecotourist” attitude. While in most people’s minds the image of ecotourism is associated with developing countries or distant and exotic destinations, it should not be forgotten that green tourism can be practiced close to home, whether you reside in France or elsewhere on the planet, in a so-called “developed” country. Many nature reserves (whether European, American, or Australian) offer their visitors the opportunity to stay in an ecological dwelling nearby or even within them. It is clear that these people are invited to adopt a particularly responsible and respectful attitude towards the places they are invited to discover in this way.
The cost of ecotourism for the traveler
Contrary to some misconceptions, traveling while taking care of the ecological footprint one leaves behind does not cost much more than mass tourism. It is obvious that spending a week in a bungalow at the foot of Kilimanjaro to respectfully observe the savannah’s wildlife may cost more than three weeks in a room in a large hotel on the Turkish Riviera, but of course, one must compare what is comparable and know exactly what one is looking for. It is also important to realize that the more demand there is for ecotourism, the more major tour operators will be inclined to develop this form of activity and raise awareness among their clients.
