Ecotourism travel incorporates the values of S.E.E.
It is about preserving ecosystems, educating visitors about conservation, empowering localities, operating sustainable tourist attractions – and, most of all, having fun and unique travel experiences!
Greenloons defends the principles of ecotourism in that the travel experience should:
Read some ecotourism success stories in Costa Rica, Australia, Peru, Malaysia, Lebanon, Rwanda, Spain, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Vietnam, Egypt, Belgium, and South Africa, and directly from those who have been enriched by tourism done right!
Ecotourism has been mixed with and incorrectly equated to other types of tourism including green, sustainable, cultural, adventure, responsible, and nature types of tourism. Following are some distinct clarifications among other tourism terms have been incorrectly applied to ecotourism:
Because there is no global standard definition, the word ecotourism has been hijacked and incorrectly marketed to the point that many consumers are confused and frustrated by the term. While not perfect, at the very least, ecotourism certifications provide a point of reference for the consumer to compare with other tour operators who claim to be offering green trips, sustainable trips, eco tours or environmentally-friendly trips.
It can be very complicated and time-consuming to understand all the eco-certifications and their nuances. But, Greenloons can help in two specific ways. First, you can download our exclusive Reference Guide to Ecotourism Certifications or you can read about Eco-Certification on the Greenloons Blog. Each article offers a detailed explanation of the award process and evaluation criteria for each certification.
We know that it is impossible to have a 100% carbon-offset vacation – we are humans after all!
But, if armed with trusted information, we believe that consumers, like you, can make appropriate (and fun) vacations choices for yourself and your family that reduce environmental damage and empower local communities. Whether it is going on a safari, participating in adventure travel or staying at an eco-lodge, you have a choice to for having a memorable and responsible vacation. You can opt to offset your vacation as well by participating in a Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Gold Standard carbon emissions program, like Climate Care.
Also, following on the Greenloons mantra of Eco-adventures for a greener world, it’s about sharing knowledge in relation to nature discovery and cultural study, energy and water conservation, and wildlife preservation – all for the next generation!