Naturetrek... & Responsible Tourism

 

1. Responsible Tourism - THE WAY FORWARD

2. Responsible Tourism - OUR POLICY

3. Responsible Tourism - OUR CONTRIBUTION

4. Responsible Tourism - OUR GUIDELINES; YOUR CHOICE

5. Responsible Tourism - YOUR IDEAS

6. Responsible Tourism - SOME USEFUL CONTACTS

 

The Way Forward

Tourism is the second largest, and perhaps the most rapidly growing, industry in the world and wildlife holidays, the area in which Naturetrek has specialised since 1987, is one of the fastest growing components of it. As part of this rapid development there has been recent, and increasing, concern and recognition that tourism can adversely affect the culture and natural environment of the host country. However, the assessment and reduction of these negative impacts is complex since there are so many countries and operators involved, and such a wide range of tourist requirements on the one hand, and local needs on the other. There is also a need to appreciate the great many positive benefits that tourism can bring, particularly to developing countries and to local/rural communities, and for tour operators to focus on, and maximise these.

 

When developed in an appropriate and responsible way, tourism not only has a very positive contribution to make to local economies, but also greatly benefits conservation... of wildlife, habitats, landscapes, monuments, towns, villages and cities! For example, by taking tourists to a country to see its wildlife, not only are a range of local employment opportunities created in an area that might otherwise be bypassed by them, but the association between protecting wildlife and a healthier economy indicates to both local people and national government alike the importance of conservation, and the great potential of national parks and wildlife reserves.

 

Clearly, there is an obvious need for all of us working in the industry to ensure that such positive aspects of tourism are developed, and all negative aspects reduced or avoided, by developing a "responsible" approach to tourism which contributes to the long-term future of a country's wildlife, people, culture and heritage. As part of this growing concern, today's tour operators are increasingly recognising the need for greater transparency and accountability which can be aided by the provision of a company statement or policy on Responsible Tourism. To date, there are no universal standards for a Responsible Tourism Policy although there are several bodies (including the United Nations, World Travel Organisation, WWF, Tourism Concern, CERT, Tearfund and AITO) which offer advice to travellers and guidelines for tour operators. It is ultimately up to each individual tour operator to design a Responsible Tourism Policy of their own that sets attainable standards for staff and clients alike.

 

Naturetrek regards the development of a detailed Responsible Tourism Policy by every tour operator as an essential step forward. The following information details our contribution to, and involvement with, the movement towards Responsible Tourism to date. You will find below, firstly Naturetrek's contribution and policy, and secondly, our recommendations to you, our customer (the Tourist!).