The Meaning of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is the term applied to tourism and travel that pays special attention to environmental concerns. However, ecotourism and ecotravel are general terms: There are many different ways to travel responsibly and sustainably. "Green" and eco-friendly tourism can take into account several different factors.

Energy and Sustainability

Long-distance travel requires energy: fuel for planes, trains, automobiles and boats. Many transportation companies are working to reduce their energy consumption; use alternative sources such as biofuel and solar power; and offset their carbon footprint by giving back to charities. If your transportation provider isn't going green, you can offset the carbon footprint of your journey at carbonfund.org.

Environmental Preservation

Ecotourism often takes travelers to exotic, untouched areas where nature still reigns over humans. While in pristine areas, conscious travelers take care to not disturb nature: staying on trails, controlling trash and fire, keeping chemicals out of the earth and water. In addition, many destinations work hard at preserving their regions' ecosystems for future residents and visitors.

"Green" Hotels

Resorts and hotels around the world are going green: reducing their energy use, investing in eco-friendly building materials, preserving their environments and supporting local communities. When choosing a green hotel, responsible travelers know to avoid "greenwashing," and support businesses that truly are working for change.

Voluntourism

More and more adventurers and long-term travelers are volunteering on farms, in schools and at building sites around the world. Voluntourism can be done independently or through organizations such as wwoof.org; in many cases, food and lodging are free while travelers work.

Green Cuisine

Savvy ecotourists know that local food is sustainable food. By patronizing locally owned restaurants and hotels that work with farmers in the community, eco-travelers support local agriculture and reduce the environmental cost of shipping food over long distances.

Charitable Giving

Non-profit organizations across the globe focus on small and underserved communities, ecosystems and economies. Many socially conscious travelers get involved with charities in their favorite destinations, where even small donations can make a big difference in preserving the environment.

References

• The International Ecotourism Society
• How to travel light--Seeing the world without trampling it
• Clean Breaks: 500 New Ways to See the World

Resources

• Calculate and offset your carbon footprint
• Uprooted, an eco-travel blog
• Find green hotels, ranked by environmental responsibility