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Spring break is not missing from the bucket list travel destinations this year. LFHS students were all over the world. Excursions range from boat trips to jungle safaris.
However, many of the trips share a common theme, they all include elements of eco-tourism, also known as sustainable tourism.
Many are not familiar with the term ecotourism, but we will soon be hearing about it as it grows in popularity.
To describe it, the term ecotourism refers to responsible travel that preserves nature and improves the well-being of local people. It is a rapidly growing segment of the tourism industry.
According to the research Grandview ResearchThe global ecotourism market It is expected to grow from $157.76 billion in 2021 to $185.43 billion in 2022, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.5%. This shows that the ecotourism industry will show significant growth in the coming year.
Statistics from a Business Wire In the year Detailing the global ecotourism market 2022, the ecotourism market is projected to reach USD 299.03 billion by 2026, representing a CAGR of 12.7% from 2022 to 2026. This shows that the ecotourism industry is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the next few years. Although a little slow.
These forecasts are subject to various factors that may affect the growth of the ecotourism market, including changes in consumer behavior, environmental policies, and global economic conditions.
Junior Rylie Koval, a seasoned eco-tourist, recently traveled to South Africa with her family.
“My family values traveling to Australia, Costa Rica, Belize, Switzerland, Thailand, Cambodia, Italy, Morocco, Mexico, Canada, the Dominican Republic and Spain,” Koval said.
Koval shares how ecotourism has given her a new perspective on the world.
“I’m traveling to South Africa again. I met a lot of wonderful people and saw a lot of beautiful things. I’m currently in contact with a local woman in Cape Town, a non-profit organization that helps underprivileged children get an education. I hope to continue that relationship in the next few years.”
Many say that ecotourism has changed their worldview, and they have had an overall positive experience. It makes them more willing to try different things, experience and enjoy local cultures.
Junior Daniel Moore, recently traveled to Costa Rica for spring break.
“I would 100% recommend it to others because it allows you to see and experience so many things that are not available everywhere else around the world,” Moore said.
However, while more people are experiencing the benefits of sustainable travel and tourism, many environmentalists are increasingly concerned about the potential threat posed by eco-tourists to local communities and ecosystems.
According to an article Public reference office, Environmentalists share five major issues with the recent rise of sustainable tourism.
- Ecological destruction
- Public pressure
- Eco-exploitation
- Local residents are being pushed out.
- Vulnerable industry
To counter these concerns, Regina Scheevens, a professor at Massey University, conducted a study focusing on the relationship between tourism and sustainable development. Ecotourism and the development of local communities“The rationale behind the framework is that ecotourism should promote both conservation and development at the local level,” he says.
She explains how ecotourism promotes economic, intellectual, political and social empowerment in local communities.
In terms of psychological empowerment, “the self-esteem of members of many societies is enhanced by the fact that their culture, natural resources, and traditional knowledge are unique and valuable.” Scheevens said in her research.
These potential risks do not outweigh the proven benefits of ecotourism.
“Ecotourism is a great way to support the local economy and encourage environmentally friendly activities,” said environmental science teacher Mary Beth Nauer.
The sustainable tourism industry is growing and is not expected to slow down in the near future. This leads to the conclusion that ecotourism is the future of tourism.
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