Eco-tourism expands into ethno-tourism
Travelmole guest comment by Michelle Grant, Americas Travel and Tourism Manager, Euromonitor International
The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as having two key elements – it is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people”.
Traditionally, however, only the environmental issues associated with travel have grabbed the lion’s share of attention from governments, the tourism industry and the media (now more than ever with the international debate over carbon emissions).
Yet, an increasing number of countries are beginning to work to ensure that tourism not only protects the environment, but also benefits indigenous people, in a trend referred to as “ethno-tourism” or “community-based eco-tourism”.
A partnership for success
The main formula for ethno-tourism involves governments working with aid agencies, such as the Inter-American Development Bank, and private partners to help indigenous communities develop sustainable tourism industries.
These initiatives are aimed to help local communities escape from poverty and preserve their natural surroundings while avoiding environmentally destructive activities, like hunting and de-forestation. By partnering with the local communities themselves and giving them ownership, governments help protect the human rights of their people and ensure that local communities benefit from the tourists they host.
Ethno-tourism examples
One of the most recognized ethno-tourism programs is in Bolivia. The Chalalán ecolodge located in the Madidi National Park is owned, managed and staffed entirely from the people of San José de Uchupiamonas. Profits go to paying their wages as well as providing health and education services to the local community.
The Joseanos constructed the lodges in their traditional building style using eco-friendly materials from their natural surroundings. The ecolodges also use a solar-powered system to provide running water.
Ecuador also has several programs that involve local communities. The Ricancie Project, in the Napo province, consists of 10 traditional settlements that host tourists who can go on guided tours and prepare traditional foods alongside community members. The Project also helps build and maintain schools and contributes to healthcare for the community.
The future of ethno-tourism
Although the Chalalán ecolodge is becoming well known for its successful eco-tourism efforts, most programs are not as well known because local communities tend to rely on local travel agents and the mainstream audience is unaware of these opportunities.
However, Euromonitor International predicts that the growing popularity of responsible travel will likely lead to more international tourists seeking out ethno-tourism programs to ensure their holidays help protect the environment and local communities.
These trips will likely appeal to those who are looking for volunteer holidays and to acquire unique experiences, such as geo-tourists (who seek out environment, culture and national heritage), backpackers and baby boomers.
Growing popularity, however, means greater responsibility in maintaining the indigenous culture. With greater exposure to tourists, indigenous tribes may become more inclined to adopt different cultural habits.
Indigenous tribes will have to take care not to become mere performers of their cultures and traditions for tourists.
Additionally, some indigenous tribes do not benefit from ownership of their activities and oftentimes, governments and companies take advantage of these people without reimbursing them for their work.
To gain credibility with responsible travellers, it will be imperative that the human rights of these communities are recognized and respected.
As tourists become increasingly concerned with travel responsibly, they will expect travel companies not only to offer environmentally sustainable products, but also travel products that have a positive impact on the local community.
Euromonitor International predicts that there are great synergies to be gained by offering credible travel products that protect the environment and communities.
Phil Davies
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