Eco Tourism
Eco-tourism could be broadly
defined as making as little environmental impact as possible and
helping to sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging
the preservation of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place.
Responsible Eco-tourism includes programs that minimize the
adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural
environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people.
Whether it's about a nature camp or organizing trekking trips
towards the un-spoilt and inaccessible regions, one should
always keep in mind not to create any mishap or disturbance in
the life cycle of nature. Historical, biological and cultural
conservation, preservation, sustainable development etc. are
some of the fields closely related to Eco-Tourism. Minimize Impact on environment Build environmental and
cultural awareness and respect local traditions
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
Eco-tourism market is considered to be
the fastest growing market in tourism industry according to the
World Tourism Organisation with an annual growth rate of 5%
worldwide and representing 6% of the world gross domestic
product.
Eco Wild Camps Rajaji (EWCR) , in association with local
coordinators and rural people along with corporate entities has
been engaged in promoting Eco Tourism on the following
principles :-
EWCR believes that everyone is a stakeholder in the process
of creating awareness for Eco-tourism and we clearly need to
avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact that they
have had. Since Eco-tourism is gathering momentum in India
as well, some basic do's and don'ts of eco-tourism are
listed below :-
| DO'S | DON'TS |
| Enjoy the nature without disturbing it and be an Ambassador back home. | Do not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal, especially in the Himalayas. |
| Respect local traditions and culture. Observe the sanctity of holy sites. | Do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing. |
| Carry back all non-degradable litter such as Empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. These must be buried or disposed in dustbins only. | Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests. |
| Cut noise pollution. Do not blare aloud electronic entertainment equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks. | Do not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild. |
| Stay on track while trekking. | Never come in between a parent animal and its kids. Don't feed wild animals. |
| Respect people's privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a photograph. | Do not take weapons and inflammable items in the reserve area. It is strictly prohibited. |
| Inform immediately about happening of fire accident to the nearest forest personnel and help them to curb it. | Do not disturb and chase wild animals for a better look or an 'ultimate pic'. |
| Be fair while using water and energy. | Do not go beyond the earmarked area for tourists inside jungle. It is not advisable and restricted. |
| Co-operate Forest Department in conservation activities and follow Forest Regulations. | Entry in reserve forest without competent authority is restricted. |
PRINCIPLES OF TOURISM IN AND AROUND TIGER RESERVES - NTCA
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Adopt low-impact wildlife tourism that protects ecological integrity of forest and wildlife areas, secure wildlife values of the destination and its surrounding areas.
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Engage with Gram Sabhas as defined in FRA and/or PESA to facilitate decision making.
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Ensure free participation and prior informed consent of Gram Sabhas and all other stake holders.
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Develop mechanisms to generate revenues from wildlife tourism for the welfare and economic up-liftment of local communities.
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Highlight the biodiversity richness, their values and their ecological services to people.
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Highlight the heritage value of India's wilderness and tiger reserves.
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Build environmental, cultural awareness and respect.
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Facilitate the sustainability of tourism enterprises and activities.
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Provide livelihood opportunities to local communities.
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Promote sustainable use of indigenous materials for tourism activities.
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Promote processes for forest dwellers to control and maintain their resources, culture and rights so as to minimize negative impacts.