Prof Zadok Lampert -WEC2009 - Presentation - Roadmap ... · RENT, FOOD, CONSUMER-GOODS (INFLATION)...
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©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
Tourism: Sustainable Development
WORLD ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE 2009WORLD ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE 2009WORLD ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE 2009WORLD ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE 2009
15 July 15 July 15 July 15 July –––– 17 July 2009, Vientiane, Laos17 July 2009, Vientiane, Laos17 July 2009, Vientiane, Laos17 July 2009, Vientiane, Laos
Tourism: Sustainable Approach to DevelopmentTourism: Sustainable Approach to DevelopmentTourism: Sustainable Approach to DevelopmentTourism: Sustainable Approach to Development
PANEL PRESENTATION:PANEL PRESENTATION:PANEL PRESENTATION:PANEL PRESENTATION:
““““ROADMAP BASICS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISMROADMAP BASICS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISMROADMAP BASICS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISMROADMAP BASICS FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM””””
Panel Discussion Panel Discussion Panel Discussion Panel Discussion –––– 16 July 200916 July 200916 July 200916 July 2009
Lecturer: Zadok S. LEMPERT, PhD
Tourism-, Environmental-, Humanitarian-
Development Management Expert
Professor for Environmental Management
and Tourism Development
Contact: [email protected] and/or
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Distinguished Excellencies,
Honourable Tourism and Development Professionals,
Respected Academic Colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The paper presented here is an excerpt of longstanding
research, many lecturing documents, and based on personal
tourism and environmental development experience.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
The term TOURISM first cited in the Oxford English
Dictionary of 1811.
WHAT IS TOURISM
Definitions
In principle TOURISM addresses (or should do so) all political, legislative,
economic, industrial, environmental and social, educational issues
resulting from - or relevant to - movements of people and their belongings
from a geographical point to another as well as the resources, infra-
structure and services necessary to enable, accommodate and cater to
these needs.(Formulation by Zadok S. Lempert, PhD)
TOURISM RESOURCES/ATTRACTIONS can be distinguished as:
TOURISM can be divided into / TOURISTS can originate from/travel to:
ARTIFICIALLY BUILT RESOURCES
NATURALLY GIVEN RESOURCES
LOCAL / DOMESTIC / NATIONAL
REGIONAL / CROSS-BORDER / CONTINENTAL
INTERNATIONAL / OVERSEAS / TRANSCONTINENTAL
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
WHAT IS A TOURIST
Definitions
TOURIST:
Leisure and Vacation Entertainment and Amusement Sports
SPA & Wellness Health Food, Gourmet
Adventure-Activities Nature, Wildlife Culture
Other Special-Interest Business Conferences
incentives Education, Seminars, Courses Other Events
An individual or a group of people who undertake action to move from their
point of residence / current living location to another point of choice with a
purpose in mind and for a limited period of time.
Such persons may be called Travellers, Visitors, Tourists (*please also
refer to grey zones). Tourists usually look forward to using – and are ready
to pay for – services such as transportation, accommodation, food and
beverages, attractions, sport and entertainment events, information and
guiding, shopping and souvenirs.(Formulation by Zadok S. Lempert, PhD)
(Grey zones: Are these tourists as well?
Travel to be hospitalized, travel of soldiers under
command to an assignment point, refugees and displaced
people, Immigrants, Guest-Workers).
Why do tourists travel? Reasons / Interests for tourist movements:
(For further complementing information also refer to Tourism Prerequisits,
Segments, Suppliers)
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
TOURISM BY
ESSENTIALS, SECTORS, SEGMENTS,
SUPPLIERS
TOURISM
ESSENTIALS
„Disaster/Accident Preparedness“
Information
Variety of attractions
Value for money
Cleanliness / Hygiene / Environment
Safety / Security
MICEBUSINESSLEISURE SPECIAL INTEREST
(ENABLING) SUPPLIER / „FEEDER“
INDUSTRIES:
Hospitality, Catering, Transports,
Travel Agents, Communications,
Furniture, Electricity, Hygiene services,
Hospitals, Schools, Textiles, Fashion,
Souvenirs, Stationery, Supermarkets,
Electronics, Printing, Media,
Entertainment, Cosmetics, Urban
Infrastructure, Property Development,
Banking, Environmental Management,
Parking, Post, Translations,
Agriculture, Fisheries, Food
Processing, Police/Security
Lunchs/Dinners
Flights
Meetings
Limousines
Resort vacation
Sightseeing vacation
Shopping vacation Exhibitions
Conferences
Excursions
Incentives
Seminars &
Training
Entertainment
Culture
Food Events
Nature, Wildlife
Sports: Golf
Racing
Polo
Fishing
Diving
Trekking
Health & SPA
Golden Age
Heritage
Educationals
Cultural Events:
Music, Opera,
Theatre
Education
Eco-
Tourism
INTERNATIONAL
TOURISMTOURISM
REGIONALLOCAL
WHAT IS TOURISM
Prerequisits, Segments, Suppliers
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Industries and Sectors involved with the Tourism Industry
Leisure,
Entertainment
Direct
Travel
Hospitality
Others
Indirect
Technologies
Consumer
Goods
Others
Construction and Property
Development, Engineering
Telecommunication
Roads
Car Manufacturing
Food Processing
Outdoors Equipment
Gasoline Stations
Food, Textiles, Fashion,
Souvenirs, Stationery
Postal/Mail Services
Police, Health & Medical
Education
Environment
Travel Agents, Tour
Operators, Tourist Guides,
Airlines, Cruise Companies,
Bus and Coach Companies,
Limousines, Taxis, Railways
Hotels, Guest Houses,
Hostels, Lodges, Camping
Sites, Restaurants, Cafès &
Bars
Theatres, Cinemas, Museums,
Art Galleries, Theme Parks,
Zoos, Sport Centres,
Gardens, Amusement &
Shopping Arcades, Casinos
National & Regional Tourist
Offices
Border & Customs Police
Marketing, Advertising,
Publication Agencies
WHAT IS TOURISM
„Industry“ Actors by Segments
Is TOURISM an „INDUSTRY“?
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
The Problem:
HUMAN-KIND – THE CORE OF THE PROBLEM
Congestion of population / Overpopulation
Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY
INTRODUCTION: GLOBAL PROBLEMS ANALYSIS
Congestion of population / Overpopulation
Urban
congerstion:
Megacities
Examples:
Congerstion:
Overpopulation
Congestion:
Traffic
Congestion:
Waste, Garbage
Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY
INTRODUCTION: GLOBAL PROBLEMS ANALYSIS
In order to keep up with the growing needs, the
“cycle of more” =
- more population,
- more request for known luxuries,
- more production,
- more supply,
- more consumption
equals
- more use / exploitation of natural resources,
- more waste,
- more pollution
has become a pattern of normal life and business
conduct in this century.
DEVELOPMENT STRIVES TO COPE WITH THESE
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
TOURISM is part of the overall DEVELOPMENT
It
STIMULATES ECONOMIC GROWTH
STIMULATES INVESTMENTS IN INFRASTRUCTURES
(Roads, Water Systems, Electricity, Construction,
Public Transportation Systems, Hygiene Systems,
Agriculture and Food Supplies, Attractions
Maintenanace and Attractive Shopping Areas)
CREATES JOB AND INCOME OPPORTUNITIES
ENHANCES READINESS FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
AND PROFICIENCY
ENHANCES LIVING STANDARDS OF LOCAL
POPULATION
IMPROVES THE NATIONAL IMAGE AND CREATES
CONFIDENCE IN INVESTMENTS-RELIABILITY
BUT
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
TOURISM has strong IMPACTS:
It
CREATES NATIONAL ECONOMIC DEBTS
CONSTRUCTION AND INFRASTRUCTURES MEAN
DESTRUCTION OF FORESTS AND AGRICULTURE,
DESTRUCTION OF BIODIVERSITY,
LAND DEGRADATION,
IN SEVERAL CASES DISPLACEMENT OF POPULATION
MORE TRANSPORTATION CAUSES
CONTRIBUTION TO GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE
CHANGE,
AIR AND NOISE POLLUTION,
TRAFFIC CONGESTIONS, TENSIONS
MORE VISITORS CONSUME
MORE WATER, ELECTRICITY,
CREATE MORE WASTE AND SEWAGE,
PAY HIGHER PRICES THAN LOCALS FOR
RENT, FOOD, CONSUMER-GOODS (INFLATION)
TOURISM HAS IMPACTS OF LOCAL CULTURES
(Commodification, Standardisation, Loss of
Cultural Authenticity, increased Crime and
Prostitution)
MOTIVATES LOCAL POPULATION TO MIGRATE TO
CITIES
Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY
INTRODUCTION: GLOBAL PROBLEMS ANALYSIS
Population-Demographics - Urbanisation, Megacities
Megacities:
Population congestion
Construction: roads, buildings, infrastructure
Traffic congestion
Pollution: noise, dust, air, smog, garbage, sewage, waste
Social problems: poverty, isolation, desperation, criminality
Search for solutions: economy, clean air and water, sufficinet energy, parking, safety, waste and sanitation management
and pollution prevention, schools, health, entertainment
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
Adventure Travel
Adventure Travel
Adventure Travel
Adventure Travel Agro
AgroAgroAgro----tourism
/ Rural Tourism
tourism / Rural Tourism
tourism / Rural Tourism
tourism / Rural Tourism
Alternative Tourism
Alternative Tourism
Alternative Tourism
Alternative Tourism
Conscientious Tourism
Conscientious Tourism
Conscientious Tourism
Conscientious Tourism Community based Tourism
Community based Tourism
Community based Tourism
Community based Tourism
GeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourism
Heritage Tourism
Heritage Tourism
Heritage Tourism
Heritage Tourism
Nature Tourism
Nature Tourism
Nature Tourism
Nature Tourism
ProProProPro----p
oor T
ouris
m
poor
Tou
rism
poor
Tou
rism
poor
Tou
rism
Responsible Tourism
Responsible Tourism
Responsible Tourism
Responsible Tourism
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
ECOTOURISM
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE ?
WHAT IS ECOTOURISM ?
Tourism: Sustainable Development
Panel Presentation: Roadmap Basics
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 1: World Summit on Sustainable DevelopmentPerception 1: World Summit on Sustainable DevelopmentPerception 1: World Summit on Sustainable DevelopmentPerception 1: World Summit on Sustainable Development
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN ITS PUREST SENSE, IS AN
INDUSTRY WHICH ATTEMPTS TO MAKE A LOW
IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND LOCAL
CULTURE, WHILE HELPING TO GENERATE INCOME,
EMPLOYMENT, AND THE CONSERVATION OF LOCAL
ECOSYSTEMS. IT IS RESPONSIBLE TOURISM WHICH IS
BOTH ECOLOGICALLY AND CULTURALLY SENSITIVE.
Perception 2: UNEP Perception 2: UNEP Perception 2: UNEP Perception 2: UNEP –––– United Nations Environment ProgramUnited Nations Environment ProgramUnited Nations Environment ProgramUnited Nations Environment Program
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ?WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ?WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ?WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM ?
"Sustainable tourism development meets the needs of the
present tourists and host-regions while protecting and
enhancing the opportunity for the future. It is envisaged as
leading to management of all resources in such a way that
economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled, while
maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes,
biological diversity and life support systems".
For more information on sustainable tourism:
The Convention on Biological Diversity (www.biodiv.org) has made a
compilation and analysis of existing codes, guidelines, principles and position
papers on sustainable tourism.
Some important documents that discuss the concept of sustainable tourism are:
UNEP Principles on Sustainable Tourism Biological Diversity and Tourism.
(www.unepie.org)
The Convention on Biological Diversity International Guidelines for Sustainable
Tourism (www.biodiv.org/programmes/socio-eco/guidelines)
WTO has created the Global Codes of Ethics for Tourism, in which a frame of
reference for the responsible and sustainable development of tourism is set.
(www.world-tourism.org)
EU Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas (www.eco-tour.org)
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Some Statements and Declarations of the World Tourism Organization
related to the Sustainable Development of Tourism:
- The Hague Declaration on Tourism, 1989
- Lanzarote Charter for Sustainable Tourism, 1996
- Agenda 21 for Tourism & Travel Industry, 1996
- Global Codes of Ethics for Tourism, 1999
- Québec Declaration on Ecotourism, 2002
- Djerba Declaration on Tourism and Climate Change, 2003
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 3: WTO – WORLD TOURISM ORGANISATION
Sustainable Development of Tourism - Conceptual Definition (2004)
"Sustainable tourism development guidelines and management
practices are applicable to all forms of tourism in all types of
destinations, including mass tourism and the various niche tourism
segments. Sustainability principles refer to the environmental, economic
and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development, and a suitable
balance must be established between these three dimensions to
guarantee its long-term sustainability.
Thus, sustainable tourism should:
1) Make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key
element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological
processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity.
2) Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities,
conserve their built and living cultural heritage and traditional values,
and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.
3) Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-
economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed,
including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and
social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation.
Sustainable tourism development requires the informed participation of
all relevant stakeholders, as well as strong political leadership to
ensure wide participation and consensus building. Achieving sustainable
tourism is a continuous process and it requires constant monitoring of
impacts, introducing the necessary preventive and/or corrective measures
whenever necessary.
Sustainable tourism should also maintain a high level of tourist
satisfaction and ensure a meaningful experience to the tourists, raising
their awareness about sustainability issues and promoting sustainable
tourism practices amongst them."
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 4: National Geographic
What is Sustainable Tourism?
Its informative.
Travellers not only learn about the destination, they learn how to help sustain
its character while deepening their own travel experiences. Residents learn
that the ordinary and familiar may be of interest and value to outsiders.
It supports integrity of place.
Destination-savvy travellers seek out businesses that emphasize the
character of the locale in terms of architecture, cuisine, heritage, aesthetics,
and ecology. Tourism revenues in turn raise local perceived value of those
assets.
It benefits residents.
Travel businesses do their best to employ and train local people, buy local
supplies, and use local services.
It conserves resources. Environmentally aware travelers favor
businesses that minimize pollution, waste, energy consumption, water
usage, landscaping chemicals, and unnecessary nighttime lighting.
It respects local culture and tradition.
Foreign visitors learn about and observe local etiquette, including using at
least a few courtesy words in the local language. Residents learn how to
deal with foreign expectations that may differ from their own.
It does not abuse its product.
Stakeholders anticipate development pressures and apply limits and
management techniques to prevent the "loved to death" syndrome.
Businesses cooperate to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, scenic
appeal, and local culture.
It strives for quality, not quantity.
Communities measure tourism success not by sheer numbers of visitors,
but by length of stay, money spent, and quality of experience.
It means great trips.
Satisfied, excited visitors bring new knowledge home and send friends off to
experience the same thing - which provides continuing business for the
destination.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 5: American Society of Travel Agents
Principles of Sustainable Tourism
Increasing evidence shows that an integrated approach to tourism planning
and management is now required to achieve sustainable tourism. It is only
recently that there has been a growing recognition of the importance of
combining the needs of traditional urban management (transportation, land
use planning, marketing, economic development, fire and safety etc.) with
the need to plan for tourism.
Some of the most important principles of sustainable tourism development
include:
� Tourism should be initiated with the help of broad-based community-
inputs and the community should maintain control of tourism
development.
� Tourism should provide quality employment to its community residents
and a linkage between the local businesses and tourism should be
established.
� A code of practice should be established for tourism at all levels –
national, regional, and local - based on internationally accepted
standards.
� Guidelines for tourism operations, impact assessment, monitoring of
cumulative impacts, and limits to acceptable change should be
established.
� Education and training programmes to improve and manage heritage
and natural resources should be established.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
During the past three decades Tourism has become a major international
industry, with many countries all over the world relying on the income it
produces. Its economic advantages as a major source of foreign exchange
and employment lead to its active promotion by governments and other
institutions. The consequences on the environment were long neglected as
economic development was more important. The fact that “Environment” is a
major “natural” integrated factor in the “tourism menu” has now also been
recognized.
The demands of tourism can, however, contribute to the destruction of the
natural and cultural environment upon which it depends. It is essential to find
ways to protect those environments for the present and future generations.
Sustainable Tourism aims to achieve these objectives through the
development of new solutions, which minimise the adverse effects of tourism,
either on the environment, or outside its boundaries. This can be achieved
through the development of new strategies for managing the environment,
involving the active collaboration of society as a whole.
The continuous growth of tourism gives substantial urgency to finding
solutions to cope with its impact on the environment, including culture and
society. The issues concerned with achieving environmental, social and
economic sustainability of tourism alongside the governance mechanisms
needed to support sustainable tourism have to be explored and formalized.
Sustainable Tourism has to adopt a multi-disciplinary approach and
specifically aim to foster greater understanding and collaboration between
scientists and social science experts, practitioners and policy makers. It has
to employ a broad view of the sophisticated and complex tourism-industry,
while continuously examining the practice of sustainable tourism from global
travel trends through to destination and site management, innovative
environmental and energy solutions, and solutions of preserving the diversity
of our planet.
Personal perception and Author‘s remarks:
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
The term EcoTourism started evolving around 1975. Dedicated nature-
lovers, world explorers and expedition participants, environmentalists and
biologists observed and commented the destruction of natural resources
through economical greed and profit seeking, technical industrial progress,
ignorant legislations, lack of interest by local populations to guard their
surroundings.
The term EcoTourism became a buzzword during the 1980‘s, with this
nichmarket striving to become mainstream. Unfortunately its influence and
acceptance in the market were diluted through misuse within the tourism
industry and lacking marketing.
The criteria, principles and definitions of EcoTourism have been
repeatedly debated on political, legislative and academic levels. This
chapter looks at EcoTourism issues, principles and definitions from
various angles.
Lately the term EcoTourism has been replaced by Sustainable Tourism,
Responsible Tourism, Total Tourism and similar. They all, however,
move along following guidelines:
While the details vary, most definitions of
EcoTourism boil down to a special form
of tourism that meets three win-win-win
criteria:
1) it provides for environmental
conservation
2) it includes meaningful community
participation
3) it is profitable and can sustain itself.
This three circle model illuminates not only what is EcoTourism, but what
could become EcoTourism. It allows individual or specific projects to
weigh strengths and weaknesses and figure out in the areas they need
assistance.
General background (1)
EcoTourism has long been a term misused by critics and proponents,
including environmentalists and tourism developers. There is no single
definition and 20 years after its introduction, the word remains a
buzzword.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
There can be no EcoTourism if a project doesn't include travellers AND
locals..., if it doesn't foster conservation AND promote tourism.
If projects are to be considered EcoTourism, they must include local
participation and they must assist conservation efforts. This is not to say
that tourism services that don't include these components are not "good" -
they simply are not EcoTourism.
That said, the individual components of EcoTourism are difficult to
accomplish, particularly in the developing world. No wonder we have seen
the rate of failure of ecotourism projects soar to more than 90 percent.
General background (2)
The following checklist is based on a holistic view of those working toward
EcoTourism. It provides a practical checklist of responsibilities and
responsibilities.
Locals
- Permanent residents; - Nearby visitors; -newcomers
Travellers
- International; - National; - Local
Government
- International; - National; - Local
Media
- Writers; - Publishers; - Public Relation Agencies
Travel Industry
- Tour Companies; - Agents; - Individual Guides
Transportation
- Airlines; - Bus; - Taxi; - Bikes; - Public Transport; - Rental Cars
Social Sector
- Academics; - Environmentalists; - Security; - Health
Non-Human
- Animals; - Plants; - Place
Who are the principal actors, i.e. stakeholders, in EcoTourism? This is an
important question. After all, determining who is or is not considered a
"stakeholder" determines how the game is played. Successful
EcoTourism requires inter-sectoral alliances, comprehension and
respect.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 1: UNEP (United Nations Environment Program) (1)
Ecotourism has been marketed as a form of nature-based tourism, but it
has also been studied as a sustainable development tool by NGOs,
development experts and academics since 1990. The term ecotourism,
therefore, refers on one hand to a concept based on a set of principles, and
on the other hand to a specific market segment.
Ecotourism is of special interest to UNEP for its relationship with
conservation, sustainability, and biological diversity. As a development tool,
ecotourism can advance the three basic goals of the
Convention on Biological Diversity:
conserve biological (and cultural) diversity, by strengthening protected
area management systems (public or private) and increasing the value of
sound ecosystems;
promote the sustainable use of biodiversity, by generating income, jobs
and business opportunities in ecotourism and related business networks;
share the benefits of ecotourism developments equitably with local
communities and indigenous people, by obtaining their informed consent
and full participation in planning and management of ecotourism
businesses;
In the field, well-planned and managed ecotourism has proven to be one
of the most effective tools for long-term conservation of biodiversity when
the right circumstances (such as market feasibility, management capacity
at local level, and clear and monitored links between ecotourism
development and conservation) are present.
Ecotourism as a concept
Ecotourism is a component of
the field of sustainable
tourism.
Figure 1 offers a reflection of
where ecotourism can be placed
within the process of developing
more sustainable forms of
tourism.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 1: UNEP (United Nations Environment Program) (2)
Ecotourism aspires in all cases to achieve sustainable development
results. However, it is important to stress that all tourism activities, be they
geared to holidays, business, conferences, congresses or fairs, health,
adventure or ecotourism, should aim to be sustainable. This means that the
planning and development of tourism infrastructure, its subsequent
operation, and its marketing should focus on environmental, social, cultural
and economic sustainability criteria.
The strong orientation of ecotourism toward principles, guidelines, and
certification based on sustainability standards gives it an unusual position
in the tourism field. In the years since the concept was first defined, a
general consensus has formed on the
basic elements of ecotourism:
- Contributes to conservation of biodiversity.
- Sustains the well being of local people.
- Includes an interpretation / learning experience.
- Involves responsible action on the part of tourists and the tourism industry.
- Is delivered primarily to small groups by small-scale businesses.
- Requires the lowest possible consumption of non-renewable resources.
- Stresses local participation, ownership and business opportunities,
particularly for rural people.
Ecotourism as a market segment
Ecotourism is a small but rapidly growing industry, a niche market that is
governed by market forces and regulations. It is primarily advertised as a
form of nature tourism. Some countries, companies and destinations have
social and environmental policies and programs, while others do not. This
has led to confusion worldwide about the meaning of the term ecotourism
as it is applied in the marketplace.
Further discussion of guidelines, accreditation systems, and sustainability
criteria for the ecotourism industry can be found in UNEP's Ecotourism
Principles, Practices and Policies for Sustainability.
From a functional viewpoint, ecotourism is mostly individual or small-
scale tourism (tour groups up to 25, and hotels with fewer than 100 beds)
that is operated by small- and medium-sized companies in natural areas.
It concentrates on leading and accommodating small groups in natural
areas in an educational manner through interpretive materials and local
specialist guides.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 1: UNEP (United Nations Environment Program) (3)
Figure 2 provides a reflection of how ecotourism fits into the larger tourism
marketplace. Both adventure tourism and ecotourism are components of
nature tourism, while ecotourism has stronger links to rural and cultural
tourism than to adventure tourism. In ecotourism the prime motivation is
generally the observation and appreciation of natural features and related
cultural assets, whereas in adventure tourism it is physical exercise and
challenging situations in natural environments.
In May 2000, as part of the side events on the 8th session of the United
Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD 8), a group
of Indigenous Peoples Organizations, NGOs and other members of Civil
Society provided a proposal on guidelines for ecotourism. Although the
final result could not be incorporated into the official papers due to
procedural aspects, UNEP recognizes its value as a statement of genuine
concerns from primary stakeholders.
Ecotourism is sustainable tourism, which follows clear processes that:
Ensures prior informed participation of all stakeholders,
Ensures equal, effective and active participation of all stakeholders,
Acknowledges Indigenous Peoples communities' rights to say "no" to
tourism development - and to be fully informed, effective and active
participants in the development of tourism activities within the
communities, lands, and territories,
Promotes processes for Indigenous Peoples and local communities to
control and maintain their resources.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
"...The way to travel with the emphasis to "touch and experience culture,
touch and experience nature, become excited by nature and cultures,
embeding continuous education, striving to support and maintain
communities, cultures and nature - for us and for coming generations“...
"...For the Eco-visitor the journey is as important as the destination..."
Excerpts from the document: "Understanding Ecotourism", 1994, by Zadok S. Lempert
Perception 2: Dr Zadok S. Lempert, Tourism & Environmental Expert
Ecotourism
is
based on the following Criteria:
-Observation of
-Concern for
-Involvement in
-Support of
-Education in
- Adventure and Experience with
Leading to Protection, Preservation, and Sustainable Use of
the resources:
Nature
Forests
Mountains
Deserts
Oceans
Rivers
Wildlife
Mammals
Reptiles
Birds
Insects
Marine Life
Culture & Heritage
(Authentic)
Traditions
Rituals
Lifestyle
Languages
Arts, Crafts,
Music, Dances
Environment(Prevention of)
Pollution
Exploitation(Resources + Social)
Balance between
Mankind and the
Environment
(Biodiversity)
In cooperation and sharing with local communities
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 3: IUCN
IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature (now called the
World Conservation Union) states in 1996 that ecotourism:
"...is environmentally responsible travel and visitation to relatively
undisturbed natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and any
accompanying cultural features - both past and present) that promotes
conservation, has low negative visitor impact, and provides for beneficially
active socioeconomic involvement of local populations."
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
As there is no established definition of Ecotourism, we have produced our
own, which we feel encompasses the principles of ecotourism:
“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."
(Cristina, 2004)
Perception 4: EcoTour Directory
So how does Ecotourism benefit the environment, local community and
economy?
Environmental issues
By encouraging travellers to behave in an environmentally responsible way.
EcoTour operators offer relevant information and advice on how travellers
can minimise their impact on the ecosystem as well as how they can
contribute to the protection of fragile ecosystems.
By offering travellers the opportunity to participate in conservation or
preservation projects. An important element of this type of project is
education. The goal is that through participation, eco travellers will return
home with increased awareness and concern for environmental issues and
therefore continue to behave in an environmentally conscious way.
Social issues
By involving the local community in aspects of planning, decision-making
and management of ecotourism. This encourages the empowerment of
individuals.
By educating travellers through leaflets, interpretation and advice from Tour
operators or guides about the culture, customs and etiquette of locals. This
prevents conflict or offence between local and traveller interactions that
may be caused through misunderstanding or ignorance.
Economic issues
By employing local people whenever possible and paying fair wages. This
prevents exploitation and benefits the local economy by preventing
leakages of the revenue acquired through tourism.
Many Ecotour operators are involved in working on initiatives and projects
with the local community such as training and education programmes.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Definitions and Statements
Perception 5: The International Ecotourism Society
Today many different types and definitions of ecotourism exist, however
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) give the following definition
which has been widely accepted:
"responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment
and improves the well-being of local people."
This means that travellers must think and act responsibly in all aspects of
their holiday experience in order to minimise their impacts on the
environment and local community.
In addition, ecotour companies must hold principles and practices that seek
to either preserve and conserve the environment and wildlife whilst
protecting and empowering the local people.
The following principles should be followed by everyone who implements
and participates in ecotourism activities:
- Minimize impact
- Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
- Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
- Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
- Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
- Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social
climate
- Support international human rights and labour agreements
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Principles of Sustainable TourismPrinciples of Sustainable TourismPrinciples of Sustainable TourismPrinciples of Sustainable Tourism
Increasing evidence shows that an integrated approach to tourism
planning and management is now required to achieve sustainable
tourism.
It is only recently that there has been a growing recognition of the
importance of combining the needs of traditional rural and urban
management (land use planning, transportation, marketing, economic
development, fire and safety etc.) with the need to plan for tourism.
Some of the most important principles of sustainable tourism
development include:
� Tourism should be initiated with the help of broad-based
community-inputs and the community should maintain control of
tourism development.
� Tourism should provide quality employment to its community
residents and a linkage between the local businesses and tourism
should be established.
� A code of practice should be established for tourism at all levels -
national, regional, and local - based on internationally accepted
standards. Guidelines for tourism operations, impact assessment,
monitoring of cumulative impacts, and limits to acceptable
change should be established.
� Education and training programmes to improve and manage
heritage and natural resources should be established.
Aanalyzing needs in Destination Management
Tourism Development: Planning & Analysis
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Guidelines for the development of sustainable Guidelines for the development of sustainable Guidelines for the development of sustainable Guidelines for the development of sustainable
tourism in natural areas:tourism in natural areas:tourism in natural areas:tourism in natural areas:
� Establish a program for monitoring and review.
Sustainable Tourism Development Principles
Planning guidelines for conceptualizing
� State clear conservation aims.
� Establish an inventory of existing ecological resources
and baseline environmental status.
� Develop partnerships with all interested parties,
especially local communities.
� Assess the possible environmental degradation and
carrying capacity.
� Analyze tourist markets and visitor's needs.
� Ensure that tourism supports a wide range of local
economic activities.
� Identify tourism activities that are compatible with the
area.
� Establish standards for quality.
� Establish management policies that minimize
environmental damage, such as zoning for building, and
transportation and waste management.
� Educate and train staff; establish programs for educating
visitors.
� Create a communications and marketing strategy.
©Author: Zadok Severin LEMPERT, PhD
SUSTAINABLE / RESPONSIBLE / ECO-TOURISM
Sustainable/Responsible/Eco-Tourism
Impacts of Tourism