This way of traveling allows you to get closer to nature, local culture, people and to discover unsuspected places that are nevertheless worth a look. Contrary to usual tourism, it is advisable here to educate oneself while limiting the negative impact of the stay (in particular greenhouse gas emissions ). For further,
Why practice ecotourism?
Each of our actions has negative consequences for the environment. Choosing ecotourism makes it possible to limit the impact of vacations while traveling differently.
Mass tourism thus contributes to excessive consumption and the destruction of biodiversity , like the island of Boracay in the Philippines. Nicknamed “The Garbage Island”, this tourist destination had to close its doors to travelers from all over the world to fight against environmental devastation.
This is why ecotourism is the solution to preserve the balance of places by limiting its carbon emissions. This practice advocates soft transport, responsible accommodation and a better choice of tourist activities on site.
For people who still want to go to the other side of the world, there are solutions to
caused by transportation. It is thus possible to make a donation to an association or to participate in an ecological project by opting for eco-volunteering. Be careful however to keep in mind that an offset emission is not an avoided emission!
Whether you are traveling within your own territory or to another country, be sure to encourage the local economy . This initiative is all the more important in this time of crisis.
This effort is also made in the choice of small hosts, activities organized by the actors of the territory (museums for example) and souvenirs coming directly from artisans. Ultimately, the money spent must be used by residents or small businesses.
Ecotourism to go on an adventure close to home
Adventure is around every corner! It is on this affirmation that the concept of microadventure popularized by the adventurer Alastair Humphreys is based. This local tourism allows you to rediscover your country, your region and even your city with a new look.
two men in a tent experience a storm
Local tourism allows you to easily satisfy your desire to escape with simple pleasures, get closer to nature by taking advantage of wide open spaces and save money.
Ecotourism: the steps to a successful trip
Before embarking on ecotourism, it is necessary to inquire before your departure. Here are the 5 steps to take into account to organize a responsible trip.
Plan your eco-responsible trip
It’s still your vacation, so you might as well relax in a place you like!
And when ? Prefer a time of year other than the winter and summer holidays to avoid the crowds.
Following this decisive choice, you will have some homework to do:
Learn the basics of the language if you go abroad to converse with the locals;
Inform you about the inhabitants and their way of life in order to integrate easily (don’t forget the religion and the local cults);
Then comes the choice of responsible and authentic (even unusual) accommodation to live an unforgettable and environmentally friendly adventure. Rely on
The green key
which guarantees responsible accommodation (environmentally and socially) or head to the Chouette Nature or Gîte Panda villages. Control of consumption, products from fair trade or getaways related to nature are at your disposal. Be well informed and beware of certain establishments that have mastered the
When the departure date approaches, all that remains is to prepare the suitcases! What types of activities do you plan to do? Take only the essentials and the specific equipment according to your choices, but also to the climate (map, hiking and diving equipment, first aid kit, good shoes, etc.). Don’t forget to leave room for local souvenirs or
Choose non-polluting transport with ecotourism
For a question of speed, trips are mainly made by
For its part, ecotourism favors soft transport such as the train or bus , which can transport several people at the same time.
Even so, the carbon footprint of the car can be minimized through carpooling . For short journeys, get your bike out !
Adopt an eco-responsible behavior
The eco – traveler lets his curiosity and desire to discover new things guide him. Taste local dishes, discuss with the population and respect iodiversity. This should limit the waste of natural resources.
The objective of ecotourism is to immerse yourself in a new culture or take a breath of fresh air without leaving the slightest trace of your passage.