Question

article on ecotourism

Answer 1

Eco-tourism refers to ecologically sustainable tourism to areas having ecological and biological diversity or is of environmental interest to ecologically conscious individuals. Generally speaking, the definition of eco-tourism varies. Some deem tourism to ecologically sensitive or interesting areas as eco-tourism, while some define it as responsible tourism which aims to minimise the damage caused to the environment through tourism. In India, eco-tourism is popular in national parks and sanctuaries, amongst others

Positive impact of Eco-tourism

It acts as a deterrent to poaching as a steady flow of tourists hampers the secretive activities of poachers, and provides no scope for collusion between forest officials and poachers.

Creates an interest and awareness among the people about India’s indigenous flora and fauna. It acts as a forum to educate and encourage conservation effortsBoosts economic development in areas surrounding reserves through sustainable developmentIncreases the revenue derived from tourismPreservation of local cultureCreation of employment opportunities for the localsEncourages participation of local community in protecting and conserving the area where they reside

Negative impact of Eco-tourism

The substantial economic benefits that are being derived from eco-tourism has resulted in excessive commercialisation that has resulted in flagrant violation of rules, guidelines etc that have been put in place for protecting the environment and the rights of the people

Eco-tourism propels only basic conservation of flora and fauna that is sufficient to attract tourists. In reality, it does more harm than good. The tourists arrive in and ride around the parks in vehicles which pollute the environment and scare the animals. The incessant flow of tourist disturbs the animals. Also, tourists leave behind garbage such as plastic bottles etc. which lead to environmental degradationTo cater to the increasing demand for eco-tourism, land around parks and sanctuaries is being cleared through deforestation, displacement of people etc. to accommodate hotels, resorts etc.Mismanagement of eco-tourism sites causes more harm than any little good that eco-tourism brought aboutEco-tourism takes away livelihoods from the locals, and in return provides them with low-paying subordinate positions in the resorts etc that are established. No viable long-lasting employment opportunities with scope for growth are provided to the locals

Answer 2

The tourist spots should be selected and developed with utmost care only after approval by environmentalists. Construction of tourist spots disturbs the peace and the ecology of the area. Further, the tourists cause pollution of soil, water and air by their activities. For the construction of roads tourist residential complexes, picnic spots and water parks, forests are cut down and habitat of animals is destroyed. In this way, human intervention in the nature has proved disastrous for natural resources.