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Tourism with ecological,
By Chandra De Silva

Tourism is one of the leading global industries, and a major migratory movement in modern society. International arrivals recorded more than 700 million in 2001 and are expected to reach one billion in 2010 (WTO). Nature and cultural tourism is the fastest growing segment in tourism causing serious concerns among conservationists.

The origins of ecotourism are deeply rooted in the conservation movement. Ecotourism is now used as a tool to mitigate the degradation caused by mass tourism. However, badly managed ecotourism can destroy the eco system and cultural resources on which it depends. Ecotourism should be developed with ecological, cultural and social sensitivity whilst sharing economic benefits with local people.

Ecotourism ranges from a casual walk through undisturbed forests to exploration and study of unique natural and cultural features. Sri Lanka, despite its small size (65200 sq.kms) with its rich bio diversity and culture is a vibrant resource base for eco- tourism.

Conventional tourism often involves substantial leakages of income out of the country as costly items for construction, furnishing and décor, food and beverages are central to the construction and operation of traditional hotels.

Package holidays, the product of mass tourism attempt to replicate life in the tourists’ own countries with the addition of sun, sea and sand with nature and cultural experience as an "add on", which is a "photo journey".

Ecotourists do not expect accommodation, food or nightlife that meet the standards of comfort or luxury held by other tourists. For ecotourists living with local conditions, customs and food enriches their vacation experiences. They are discerning travellers looking for knowledge-based holidays, and they engage in activities such as bird watching, nature and cultural tours engaging interpreters (guides).

Thus, most of the money remains in the country- particularly in peripheral areas where generally natural and cultural assets are located, thus stimulating economic activity and growth in the rural sector. Consequently, community based ecotourism projects are being increasingly used as a strategy for rural development.

Ecotourism attracts highly educated, affluent consumers who read extensively; use the internet for travel information and are deeply interested in environmental issues. This is a cause related marketing opportunity to identify upscale global travellers.

However, there is increasing evidence that ecotourism has facilitated commercial access to ecologically sensitive areas such as biodiversity rich forests, to collectors entering tropical countries as ecotourists, engaging in bio- piracy.

The writer is President, Eco Tourism Society of Sri Lanka

Tourism with ecological, By Chandra De Silva

Tourism with ecological,
By Chandra De Silva