Eco-tourism is travel with ethics. Here is how you can play a part:
Make tourism and conservation compatible
The money you spend on your trip helps determine the development and direction of tourism. Use your money to support reputable, conservation-minded tour operators and suppliers
Learn about the culture and customs of the areas you will visit before you go
Visit parks and nature reserves
Visitor demand and tourist expenditures support existing protected areas and can lead to the protection of additional nature. Get any necessary permits before visiting nature reserves or other protected areas
Limit energy use, including your use of air conditioning and hot water. Turn off all lights and taps when you leave hotel rooms
Choose lodgings that have effective waste treatment systems, that recycle, that are energy efficient, and, where possible, that use environmental-friendly energy sources such as solar energy or hydroelectric power
View the photograph wildlife from a distance and remember that in the optimal wildlife viewing experience, the animal never knew you were there. Suppress the natural temptation to move too close and respect signs of distress such as alarm calls, distraction displays, laidback ears, and raised hair
Conserve water
Take showers rather than baths, and use a refillable water container. Sterilise water when necessary, rather than buying bottle water
Respect the environment, stay on trails during hikes, do not remove plants or feet animals, and never litter. At the sea, do not take any water souvenirs. Bear in mind that removal can seriously disrupt ecosystems
Respect local culture, traditions and religious places. Insensitive behavior such as taking photographs of people without their consent, or failure to observe local customs, can cause offense
Say “No” to BAD SOUVENIRS
Some souvenirs (ivory, bear paw amulets) could end up costing a lot more than you paid for them.
Article source: WWF International
