ECOTOURISM is probably one of the most misused and misunderstood words in the tourism industry. However, it is becoming increasingly popular in many tourist destinations, including Guyana. With the impacts of Climate Change, the drive to preserve the environment and human health while deriving economic benefits from the natural environment is becoming the trend. Ecotourism, also known as ecological tourism, is commonly defined as: “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” (TIES, 1990)

Ecotourism involves travel to fragile, pristine, and usually protected areas. It helps to educate the traveller; provides funds for conservation; directly benefits the economic development and political empowerment of local communities; and fosters respect for different cultures and for human rights.

Principles of Ecotourism
Ecotourism unites conservation communities and sustainable travel. This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should take the following principles into consideration:

· Minimise impact.

· Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

· 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.

· Respect local culture and human rights.

· Main attractions are local culture, flora and fauna

Guyana, with over 75% of pristine forest, has great potential for ecotourism. Its rich biodiversity, which encompasses a wide spectrum of unique plants and animals, makes Guyana’s ecotourism experience different from the typical Caribbean island experience.

In Guyana, ecotourism is viewed as an environmentally-friendly way of utilising the natural environment, as opposed to traditional forms of tourism such as nature tourism and adventure tourism, which are not necessarily environmentally-friendly.

Over the years, the scope for ecotourism in Guyana has grown with experiences which make us stand out from the other ecotourism destinations. However, we still need to ensure that adequate legislations are in place, along with effective monitoring of this rapidly expanding industry. If the principles outlined above are adhered to, ecotourism can also contribute to the enhancement of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy.

http://www.untamedpath.com
http://guyanatours.tripod.com

You can also share your ideas and questions by sending your letters to: ‘Our Environment’, C/o EIT Division. The Environmental Protection Agency, 7 Broad and Charles Streets, Charlestown, GEORGETOWN. Or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com with your questions and comments.