AUTHORS

1. Mrs. B. KALAISELVI, M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed., PGDCA,

Lecturer(SS) in Mathematics,
Sri G.V.G. Visalakshi College for Women,
UDUMALPET – 642 128.

2. B.THAYUMANAVAR, B.Sc., MA., MBA. M.Phil, PGDCA, NET, (Ph.D),

Lecturer, PG Department of Management Science,
Sree Saraswathi Thyagaraja College,
Thippampatti, POLLACHI – 642 107.

ABSTRACT

ECOTOURISM

Introduction:-

Ecotourism involves visiting natural areas with the objectives of learning,

studying, or participating in activities that do not bring negative effects to the
environment, whilst protecting and empowering the local community socially and
economically. It's an increasingly popular approach to travel, as concerns about human
impact on the world have Specifically, ecotourism possesses the following
characteristics:
 Conscientious, low-impact visitor behavior
 Sensitivity towards, and appreciation of, local cultures and biodiversity
 Support for local conservation efforts
 Sustainable benefits to local communities
 Local participation in decision-making

Criteria:-

Seven characteristics of ecotourism are:

 Involves travel to natural destinations.

 Minimizes impact.
 Builds environmental awareness.
 Provides direct financial benefits for conservation.
 Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people.
 Respects local culture.
 Supports human rights and demographic movements.

Ideally, ecotourism should satisfy several criteria, such as:

  conservation of biological diversity and cultural diversity through ecosystem
protection
 promotion of sustainable use of biodiversity, by providing jobs to local
populations
 sharing of socio-economic benefits with local communities and indigenous
peoples by having their informed consent and participation in the management of
ecotourism enterprises
 tourism to unspoiled natural resources, with minimal impact on the environment
being a primary concern.
 minimization of tourism's own environmental impact
 affordability and lack of waste in the form of luxury
 local culture, flora and fauna being the main attractions

Advantages of Ecotourism:-

 Environmental Protection
 Social Understanding

 Economic Empowerment

Improving Sustainability:-

 Regulation and accreditation

 Guidelines and education

 Small scale, slow growth and local control

 Natural resource management

CONCLUSION:-

Eco-tourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering,

personal growth and learning new ways to live on our vulnerable planet. It is typically
defined as travel to destinations where the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the
primary attractions. Responsible ecotourism includes programs that minimize the adverse
effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural
integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural
factors, initiatives by hospitality providers to promote recycling, energy efficiency, water
re-use, and the creation of economic opportunities for local communities are an integral
part of ecotourism.

Ecotourism is considered the fastest growing market in the tourism industry,

according to the World Tourism Organization with an annual growth rate of 5%
worldwide and representing 6% of the world gross domestic product, 11.4% of all
consumer spending - not a market to be taken lightly.