Learning Objectives: 1.

understand what ecotourism is and why it is important (ecologically, economically and socially) in Costa Rica and the U.S. 2. describe activities that make up ecotourism in Costa Rica and the U.S. and how they may differ 3. analyze if an ecotourism activity or operation is sustainable or not 4. identify ways to increase sustainability of ecotourism operations in the future 1) Understanding ecotourism and its importance a) Ecotourism definition: tourism to places having unspoiled natural resources, with minimal impact on the environment being a primary concern. b) Ecologically i) Ecologically ecotourism can be a double edged sword if not done with some care. The waste created by the tourist whom have come to help solve a problem or just enjoy what nature has to offer is sometimes more harmful than the tourists presence is helpful. Keeping a clear picture of the scope of ones impact while participating in ecotourism is important. c) Economically i) Ecotourism is an increasing industry providing a source of income for tour companies that have developed or adopted ecotourism as both a marketing strategy and way of doing business. This brings much needed external income into all economies having the largest impact on the global south. d) Socially i) Ecotourism is a mixed bag; socially do to the varied method used by ecotourism companies and their participants. In some cases the social impacts are tremendous and helpful and other times they are not considered by the company or the ecotourist. 2) describe activities that make up ecotourism in Costa Rica and the U.S. and how they may differ a) Ecotourism in Costa Rica and the U.S i) Costa Rican eco-tourism is centered on the local environment by offering tours such as helping the local sea turtle population or visiting the worlds most sustainable theme parks. Ecotourism is a large industry for Costa Rica.

ii) The United States ecotourism industry is focused primarily on the viewing of untouched nature from Alaska to the Rockies and beyond. Most focus on the individual or small group experience of nature not seen every day. b) How they differ i) The single largest difference seen when considering ecotourism in the United States versus Costa Rica is the lack of emphasis on socially impacting tours. In Costa Rican literature there are many examples of tours that have the express purpose of improving a community or region where as all of the American tours center on the experience of an untouched wilderness. 3) analyze if an ecotourism activity or operation is sustainable or not a)ecologically What are the impacts to the environment? Does it benefit the land by keeping it protected or does it increase destruction for lodging, amenities, etc? What habitats and endangered species are being affected? b) economically Does it make the rich richer or help everyone within the community? What services are benefiting (restaurants, lodging, etc)? Does the money spent on ecotourism stay in the country and locally or travel outside of the country into investors pockets? c)socially Does it affect indigenous people of the host country? Does the culture accept and educate others? Are the ecotourism organizations sensitive to make sure locals are being respected? d) case studies look at examples of operations that work and ones that don't work discuss what makes them successful or unsuccessful 4) identify ways to increase sustainability of ecotourism operations in the future a) ecologically How is guest waste, trash, etc being dealt with? Where is the power coming from along with other resources such as facilities needed and water use? Let us upgrade these places to be used on 100% renewable energy, green efficient buildings, and properly dispose of waste. Focus on keeping habitat from being destroyed and fragmented to allow the biodiversity to continue to thrive. It is all about reducing human impacts to the system and working with it. b) economically Everyone within the community is able to live of the ecotourism money at a value comparable to what they would obtain from using that resource in another way such as

logging. The basic needs of the people are met including food, water, and shelter. The money that stays within the community can increase through making sure local businesses have customers, having craft fairs, farmers markets, restaurants, and other ways for visitors to help the local economy thrive. c) socially Making sure the ecotourism practices are supported by local communities being affected and that the benefits for them outweigh the downfall of always having an influx of visitors. Also focus on the health of the people in the country and quality of their health care system. d) sustainability certification Encourage others to only use certified sustainable ecotourism options when possible Encourage businesses to participate