Ecotourism is regarded as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people. This includes the economic, social and cultural aspect of the destination place; ensuring that the natural environment is maintained, and the local economy and people benefit from the influx of tourist dollars.
Cap Tourmente. Photo : Léo-Guy de Repentigny.
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Canada is a popular four-season ecotourism destination for both domestic and international travellers. The abundance of parks and natural areas, beautiful coastlines and mountains, as well as the Trans-Canada highway ecotours, are enjoyed by hikers, bikers and motorists alike.
The United Nations designated 2002 as the International Year of Ecotourism and Canada is marking this year-long celebration by hosting the first World Summit on Ecotourism in Quebec City, May 19 to 22. The Summit is expected to be the largest-ever gathering of tourism operators, ecologists, environment ministers and other key players involved in or affected by ecotourism.
Ecotourism is for Everyone
Cycling. Photo: Health Canada
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There are no restrictions or special criteria for who can be an ecotraveller. Young or old, families and friends–everyone can get out to enjoy the experience in cities and towns, and the wilderness beyond, without sacrificing too many comforts.
More than just "green travel", ecotravel is mindful travel; personally fulfilling, challenging and enlightening. Ecotravel encompasses a wide range of activities from a cultural visit to a heritage site, to visiting or working on a local farm, to exploring a national park. It can be the quiet pleasure of sampling unique foods in a country setting, or learning how to make environmentally–friendly paper or a wilderness adventure like canoeing, hiking or bird-watching.
Ecotravel can broaden horizons and allows tourists to explore and stretch themselves beyond what is familiar. It takes travellers off the tourist path into genuine exchange with the local environment and culture, and gives them a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world.
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Before leaving and once at the destination travellers can:
- Look for opportunities to visit less frequented sites and cultural events.
- Seek authentic ways to interact with local people.
- Stay at low-impact lodging – camping, backpacking with a tent, cabin, or place with a visible environment policy and practice. Look for hotels, inns and lodges owned and operated by locals.
- Look for local guides who know the area and culture and are willing to take you places off the tourist map.
- Buy local food and crafts – but do not buy souvenirs made from endangered animals or plants.
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As ecotourism-related activities gain in popularity one of the biggest challenges will be balancing the potential benefits with the pitfalls. Like other forms of tourism, ecotourism can create its share of social and environmental problems. The degree of impact ultimately depends on the quality of the enterprise, the level of guide training, and the behaviour of tourists themselves.
No matter where tourists go or how they travel, they will have an effect on the environment and the people they visit. Travelling responsibly can reduce the negative impacts, and in many cases, can help conserve the environment and preserve indigenous cultures.
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