 Ecotourism takes the environment into consideration, reducing the impact of waste, energy and more when traveling. But many travelers have many questions regarding ecotourism: Where can you find ecotourism options and trips? What do you need to take into consideration? Why do you need to even take an Ecotourism trip instead of a more traditional trip ?
Unfortunately, due to minimal care in the past, the world is suffering immensely from the overuse of non-renewable resources. This is negative in many ways. Not only is the world running out of resources, but the use of these resources means that we are quickly polluting our environment, making it an unsafe place for us and other local inhabitants to live. Ecotourism minimizes environmental impact, and if you do it right, hopefully it gives back to the environment, too.
Green resorts offer great options for Ecotourism trips. Strategically located so as not to disturb surrounding wildlife and constructed using renewable energy and goods, green resorts may be your best choice for ecotourism. Envirocitizen.org has compiled a list of things you should consider while planning your next trip.
- Construction - First, consider the construction. Was the hotel designed in an open manner? This will reduce breezy, open-air areas, which will reduce energy consumption. Also, are the rooms energy efficient ?
- Eco-recognition- Is the resort recognized for its standards? Does it abide by ISO14001? Are there any awards that the green resort has received for its eco-recognition ?
- Future Green Technology- Does the resort promote green advances in green technology? Does the green resort use the newest energy-saving technology ?
- Guest Participation - Are the guests aware of and informed of the resort-wide environmental efforts and activities? The promotion of green activities is an education for all who are interested in a green lifestyle.
- Native Environment - How does the green resort promote and protect the local culture? Is the local environment, including the fauna and flora, taken into account? Is the cultural architecture and history preserved? The presence of local cuisines and products are also a huge plus.
- Renewable Resources - What kind of renewable resources are used by the green resort? Does the resort harness solar, hydro or wind power? There are different renewable resources available at every location.
- Safety and Quality - What are the food systems like? Are quality control systems in place? How is the maintenance department? Are the water lines monitored and flushed ?
- Staff Training - Does the green resort have a strong company culture including the education and implementation of green practices? How is the staff involved ?
- Stewardship - How does the green resort promote environmental preservation? Is the green resort proactive and publically involved with educating the local community?
- Transportation - Does the resort support local and energy-free transportation? Do they use alternative fuel sources such as biofuels or electrical powered vehicles ?
- Waste Reduction - Does the hotel track their waste reduction? Does this include the use of water, electricity and other resources? Are there low-flow toilets, showers and faucets? Are biodegradable products used? Is the biodegradable waste recycled ?
EnviroCitizen.org wants to make ecotourism simple to plan and research which is why we have compiled a list of ecotourism destinations and green resorts.
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