Ecotourism as a concept dates back to 1970’s, Ecotourism did not become prevalent as a travel concept till the 80’s. During the 80’s, there was an increasein environmental awareness and a desire to travel to destinations offering natural locations rather than standard destinations offering built up tourist attractions.

Ecotourism is a completely different approach to tourism. Ecotourism is a persevering travel to natural areas to appreciate the natural and cultural history of the environment and ensure that one does not disturb the integrity of the ecosystem and create economic opportunities that make conservation and protection of natural resources advantageous to the local people.

According to the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) tourism that involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specified objective of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects [both of the past and the present] found in these areas is defined as ecotourism. An optimum number of environment-friendly visitor activities, which do not have any serious impact on the ecosystem and the local community and the positive involvement of the local community in maintaining the ecological balance are some of its key elements

Principles of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is all about conservation of natural resources, using local communities and help in sustainable travel. Following are a few basic principles of Ecotourism that needs to be followed by those who implement/participate and market Ecotourism

–          Build cultural and environmental awareness

–          Minimize social, physical and psychological impacts

–          Provide direct financial benefits for conservation

–          Provide positive experiences for visitors and hosts

–          Deliver memorable experiences to visitors to that help raise sensitivity to host destinations

–          Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous people of the local community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

Ecotourism in India

The Ministry of tourism in India has also set a specific agenda to promote tourism in our country in a responsible and sustainable manner.

In recent years, it has been assessed that there is a growing trend towards travel to eco-tourism destinations like National Parks and Wildlife sanctuaries.

Considering this trend, the government of India had discussions with stakeholders, state governments and the Ministry of Environment and forests under the initiative ‘Tigers – Our National Beauties’ and the stakeholders had raised concerns about growing dangers to wildlife in our National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries due to unplanned growth of infrastructure in these areas which is also affecting the corridors for movement of animals in the parks.

A detailed survey was carried out in different parks. Based on the report, the government decided to include categories of awards for stakeholders to promote and practice Ecotourism. Awards for ‘Best Eco-Friendly hotel’, ‘Best Responsible Tourism Project’ etc. were added in the National Tourism awards and presented annually to the stakeholders.

Jay Kantawala from WIYO Travel commented that “India has the potential to become a competitive ecotourism destination as we have abundant natural wealth. This also helps to develop the socio-economic status of local communities whilst also conserving its biodiversity”.