namami zhao eco tourism park

Ecotourism in Vietnam: Potential and Reality

Phan nguyen hong, quan thi quynh dao, le kim thoa.

W ith 13,000 floral species and over 15,000 faunal species, three newly discovered big animal species, and a ratio of country/world species of 6.3%, Vietnam has enormous tourism—particularly ecotourism—potential. In fact, since 1986, when Doi Moi (renovation reforms) began the shift from a centrally planned to a socialist-oriented market, or multi-sectoral, economy, tourism has been an sector of primary concern to the government. In May 1995, the prime minister of Vietnam approved a master plan of tourism development for the period 1995-2010. In February 1999, the state decree on tourism was part of the socio-economic development strategy for the period 2001-2010 approved at the IX National Congress of the Party: “Tourism development has become a spearhead economic industry indeed. It is necessary to improve the quality and effectiveness of tourism activities, bringing into full play the natural conditions, and cultural and historical tradition to meet the domestic and international demand for tourism and to catch up with tourism development in the region” (Document of the IX National Congress 2001).

Tourism has so far brought great benefits to the economy, but it has also contributed to environmental degradation, especially biodiversity deterioration. Thus, the concept of “sustainable development”—development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs—must be factored into tourism development. This consideration is reflected in the term “ecotourism,” which is referred to variously as ecological or environmental tourism, nature or green tourism, sustainable or responsible tourism.

Ecotourism involves travel to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring, and enjoying scenery, plants, and animals, as well as any cultural features found in these areas. It is distinguished from mass or resort tourism by its lower impact on the environment, lower infrastructure requirements, and its role in educating tourists about natural environments and cultural values.

Fully aware of its significance, the government of Vietnam has prioritized ecotourism in its strategy for tourism development to ensure both sustainability and economic benefits. Though ecotourism in Vietnam is at a beginning stage of development, it is expected to grow strongly through support from government and international organizations.

Natural resources potential

Vietnam is both a “cradle” of native species and a transitional area of organisms from the biota of the north (Himalaya-south China), the south (Malaysia-Indonesia) and the west (India-Myanmar) (Khanh 1999). Moreover, due to its diversity of topography and climatic conditions, Vietnam is rich in floral and faunal species, of which 10 percent and 11 percent, respectively, are endemic. The three big animal species that have been recently discovered in Vietnam are “Sao la” ( Pseudoryx nghetinhensis ) in 1992, “Mang lon” ( Megamuntiacus vuquangensis ) in 1993, and “Mang Truong Son” ( Muntiacus truongsonensis ) in 1996. Indeed, Vietnam is considered one of sixteen countries with the highest biodiversity in a wide range of ecosystems (WCMC 1962)—a very favorable condition for ecotourism development.

Coastal ecosystems: Vietnam’s 3260 km of coastline hosts a variety of coastal ecosystems. The number of seagrass species in Vietnam ranks second only to the Philippines within ASEAN. Seagrass beds are increasingly abundant from north to south and are home to 125 benthic species and 158 seaweed species (Tien 2000). Sea cow ( Dugong dugong or manatee)—an animal species in danger of extinction—can be found in the Con Dao seagrass bed.

Coral reef ecosystems are already attractive to ecotourists, with resorts established at Cat Ba Island, Co To, Bach Long Vi, Con Co, Hon Son Tra-Hai Van, Con Dao, Phu Quoc, and islands in Khanh Hoa province. Divers can observe colorful coral reefs with a wide range of flora and fauna. Coral reef samples are exploited for tourist souvenirs in the provinces of Quang Ninh, Nha Trang, and Con Dao (Tien 2000). Species composition is rich: about 95 species of 35 genera in Northern coastal areas and 255 species of 69 genera in Southern coastal areas. These include 180 phytoplankton, 97 zooplankton, 70 seaweed, 78 polychaeta, 208 mollusk, 76 crustacean, and 157 fish species (Yet 1998, cited in Tuan 2000).

The National Environment Agency of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (2000) lists 79 wetland areas of national importance (Hughes et al. (eds.) 2001). Among them are lagoon ecosystems, found only in Central Vietnam (Tam Giang-Cau Hai, Tra O, Truong Giang, O Loan, Thuy Trieu, Thi Nai, and Nuoc Ngot). Lagoons are very high in biodiversity with a high level of nutrition. As one of the biggest lagoons in the world, Tam Giang-Cau Hai Lagoon (21,000 ha) has as many as 55 species of seaweed. Fish, shrimp, and crabs of economic value include Mugil cephalus, Siganus guttatus , Penaeus monodon , Scylla serrata , and Portunus pelagicus . Hundreds of tons of mollusks are harvested annually (Hoi et al. 1995, 1996). Lagoons in Vietnam also contain mineral resources of high value, help regulate the local climate, and can become ideal tourist destinations.

Wetland areas of obvious tourist interest are coastal sandy ecosystems. The total area of sandy beaches in Vietnam is 170 km 2 . According to Mai Sy Tuan (2000), flora found here are not rich in species composition, mainly shrubs and succulent grass such as Pandanus tectorius , Agave americana , Euphorbia antiquorum , Opuntia sp ., Sesuvium porlulacastrum , and Casuarina equisetifolia . There is a globe-shaped grass species, Spinifex littoreus , with infruitescence resembling a porcupine, which, when ripe, roll along sandy beaches to the delight of children. On hot sunny days, you can lie on hammocks under the Casuarina equisetifolia forest listening to the wind singing or eat seafood such as squid, blue crabs, mud crabs, and banana shrimps. Other marine species commonly found are uca, mollusks, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Most notably, this ecosystem provides a breeding ground for some turtle species in danger of extinction. Among the many beautiful sandy beaches in Vietnam are Cat Ba Island, Tra Co, Bai Chay (Quang Ninh Province), Do Son (Hai Phong City), Dong Chau (Thai Binh), Hai Thinh (Nam Dinh Province), Sam Son (Thanh Hoa Province), Cua Lo (Nghe An Province), Thien Cam (Ha Tinh Province), Lang Co (Thua Thien Hue Province), Ngu Hanh Son (Da Nang City), Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Phan Thiet (Ninh Thuan), and Vung Tau.

Vietnam’s diversified mangrove forests suffered greatly during the two Indochina wars. In recent years, mangrove reforestation efforts have been made by many groups, ranging from central and local governments to NGOs and other international organizations. A typical example is Can Gio Mangroves (described in the case study below), designated by UNESCO as the first Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam on 21 January 2000 and included in the world network of Biosphere Reserves.

Ca Mau mangrove forest in the extreme south features houses of built in traditional Tay Nguyen style and seven other simple Nypa palm (a mangrove species) thatched huts and a small pathway leading to the mangroves. Though infrastructure is still poor, the area attracts 3,000 tourists per month ( People’s Newspaper , 11 September 2002). The Xuan Thuy Ramsar Convention Nature Reserve supports a great variety of faunal and floral species, including nine threatened and near-threatened bird species. Most notably, 26 percent of the world’s black-faced spoonbill and 2 percent of the Larus saudersi can be seen here (Birdlife 2001).

Limestone ecosystems : Limestone mountains are distributed mostly from the north to Quang Binh. These mountains of evergreen forests have vivid fauna and flora species. They are also home to the distinctive cultures represented by some of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Vo Tri Chung (2002) stated that limestone mountains contain many historical vestiges of human civilization, social development, and protection of the country. Visitors can hike in limestone mountains in the Cat Ba, Ba Be, and Cuc Phuong National Parks and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang and Paco-Hangkia Nature Reserves.

Special use forest system: According to the Tourism Development Research Institute, the special use forest system includes eleven national parks of 259,797 ha; sixty-one nature reserves of 1,692,351 ha; and thirty-four environmental, historical, and cultural forests of 147,886 ha. The total area of special use forests in Vietnam is 3,100,034 ha, accounting for 28.4 percent of total forest land (10,915,592 ha).

Some national parks are located in remote areas, such as the Pu Mat and the Ben En national parks; others lie along national roads or near big cities with convenient transportation suitable for ecotourism development. They are Ba Vi national park (Ha Tay province), Cuc Phuong national park (Ninh Binh province), Cat Ba national park (Hai Phong province), Tam Dao national park (Vinh Phuc province), Bach Ma national park (Thua Thien Hue province), and Nam Cat Yien national park (Dong Nai Province).

In recent years, the government of Vietnam has invested in improving infrastructure and investigating the floral, faunal, geological, and geomorphological characteristics of national parks. These areas have become research sites for the maintenance of biodiversity samples. Therefore many universities and research institutions have organized visits for students, cadres, and foreigners. We hope the open door policy of sustainable tourism development will continue to channel appropriate investment to national parks in order to welcome nature reseachers to Vietnam.

Since 1987, the establishment of special use forests increased thanks to interest from the central to local levels, the cooperation of scientists and researchers, and the coordination and assistance of international organizations and NGOs. It is in these forests that ecotourism should continue to be developed for both their natural and their cultural value.

Fruit gardens: Lying in the tropical region, Vietnam has many varieties of fruit trees, especially in the Mekong river delta, where warm weather favors year-round tree growth. After hard-working days in noisy urban areas, visitors can walk in gardens of diversified fruits of many colors and sample the simple, peaceful life closely associated with the river. One newly emerged ecotourist village is My Khanh village, about 10 km from Can Tho City in the southwest. It is a fruit garden located on 40,000 m 2 with many canals and creeks, floating markets, traditional (“rong”) style guesthouses, and stocked lakes for fishing and boating. It is a good place for visitors interested in culinary culture, local fruit specialties, traditional production of noodles, wine, young sticky rice, mat weaving, and rice grinding (Sai Gon Economics Time 2002).

Cultural integrity potential

Vietnam is rich in culture identity, with fifty-four peoples whose indigenous knowledge should also be accessible to visitors. One of the principles of ecotourism is to preserve cultural integrity because human value cannot be separated from natural value. As most potential ecotourist sites are inhabited by ethnic minorities, the principle of “encouraging community participation in ecotourism activities” should both create income and help maintain cultural identity. These communities have a deep understanding of traditional festivals, cultivation and land use customs, culinary culture, traditional lifestyle and handicrafts, and historical places. A trip to the limestone mountain of Cao Bang-Bac Kan, for example, is valuable not only for the natural Ba Be Lake, but for the opportunity to learn about cultivation customs, dying practices using endemic plants to produce brocading (Cham weaving), and traditional handmade boats of precious timber collected in the forest.

Cultural value is also represented in Vietnam’s approximately 100 traditional festivals. The Nghinh Ong Festival—to worship “Whale”—is the biggest festival of coastal fishermen in Vietnam (Canh 2002). Other distinctive celebrations are the “Spring” festival of Thai and Muong ethnic minorities and elephant racing and buffalo festivals in Tay Nguyen.

 T he reality of ecotourism in Vietnam today

According to Nguyen Van De (2002), there was a 7.1-fold increase in international tourist visits from 300,000 in 1991 to 2.14 million in 2000; domestic tourism experienced a 7.5 fold rise, from 1.5 million to 11.3 million visits. This is a high rate of increase compared to other countries in the region, bringing international tourism in Vietnam to a near equal level with the Philippines and to about one quarter of that of Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Those referred to as ecotourists account for over 30% of international and nearly 50% of domestic tourists (Luong 1999). Tam Dao National Park receives 120,000-150,000 visitors every year (Tien 2002). Tourism in Nam Cat Tien is restricted, but still some thousands of mostly young people visit this area. Meanwhile, ecotourists to Ha Long Bay number 400,000. Ecotourism has been increasing in recent years, with domestic visitors rising more rapidly than international ones, accounting for up to 9.5 million people in 1998 (Luong 2000). Most ecotourists are adventurous young people and researchers who focus on national parks and nature reserves.

Source: Luong 2000

Because ecotourism is important for environmental education, maintenance of indigenous culture, and local economic development, both investment and government encouragement are required. Fillion et al. (1992, cited in Ceballos-Lascurain 1996, cited in Le Van Lanh 1999) estimated that international ecotourism generated USD 93-233 billion in 1988, and in fact, most nature reserves in the world are dependent on ecotourism revenues. But ecotourism also needs investment in human resources (especially tourist guides), management, and fundamental research and planning focused on the natural environment of proposed ecotourism sites. Investors at home and abroad have preferred to focus on infrastructure like hotels and restaurants. What investment does exist goes mainly to national parks and nature reserves and comes from the state budget through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and from international organizations like WWF and the governments of the Netherlands, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Total capital investment in national parks and nature reserves from 1994 to 1999 was VND 71.1 billion (USD 1.1 million today). According to the Institute of Tourism Research and Development’s 1999 investigation, visitor entrance fees generated VND 386.2 (USD 25,150) million for reinvestment in infrastructure, conservation, and forestry development (Luong 2000).

Poor and uncoordinated management and organization of ecotourism have limited the development of this sector. Most resorts—beaches and other popular sites—are under the management of provincial tourism departments. In nature reserves and national parks, there is coordination between management boards and tourism corporations, which make investments in infrastructure and enjoy partial profits collected from fees. But there are often too many overlapping jurisdictions. For example, special use forests are managed by the forestry sector. The management boards of National Parks are under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; those of Nature Reserves and Cultural, Historical and Environmental Forests are under Provincial and City People’s Committees. In Con Dao National Park, the local units involved in tourism are the district government, Con Dao National Park, tourism managers, military units, and local fishermen. According to new regulations governing the management of special use forests promulgated according to Decision No. 08/2001/QD-TTg by the prime minister (November 11, 2001), the Ministry of Culture and Information in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is responsible for establishing and managing Cultural, Historical and Environmental Forests.

This tangled web of oversight has yielded no national strategy for ecotourism in Vietnam. And although tourist routes have been set up, no zoning plans have clearly delineated areas for ecotourism activites in national parks and nature reserves.

Is it really ecotourism?

Vietnam’s natural and cultural potential for ecotourism is well established. However, based on the following principles of ecotourism (Luong 1999), the economic activity occurring in Vietnam is only a type of nature-based tourism.

Principle 1: “Educating tourists on the natural environment to raise their awareness and get them involved in conservation work.” Who is responsible for environmental education? The tourist guides, managers, and other ecotourism staff. But in fact, most of these people do not have sufficient environmental training or indigenous knowledge to engage in education work. Research by Pham Trung Luong (2000) shows that 90 percent of ecotourist guides lack environmental knowledge (80 percent about flora and fauna species, 80 percent about natural resources typical in their area), and 88 percent would benefit from ecotourism guidebooks written especially for them. An illustration of wasted potential caused by this lack of training is Ha Long Bay, a world heritage site with immense environmental value—coral reefs, limestone mountains, thousands of flora and fauna species of high biodiversity—and rich cultural identity. But tourists in Ha Long Bay are presently visiting only the Bay and some caves, not accessing environmental information or local cultural activities. In general, the full potential of ecotourism has not yet been reached.

Principle 2: “Protecting the environment and maintaining vulnerable ecosystems.” Ecotourism should be associated with sustainable development, human love for nature, and protection of the environment. Nevertheless, much tourism is still spontaneous and lacking in management and visitor regulations. Some tourists are not fully aware of environmental protection and reluctant to pay conservation fees. If they throw rubbish or cut tree branches, they are not fined. As a result, some tourist areas have suffered serious environmental degradation, such as Huong Pagoda (Ha Tay province). And since there have been few Environmental Impact Assessments, the consequences of ecotourist activities are not clearly understood.

Principles 3 and 4: “Maintaining and promoting cultural identity and involving local communities in ecotourism.” International vistors to Vietnam often like to visit ethnic minority villages to observe the culture, meet local people, and participate in traditional activities. The ethnic minorities who live in or near nature reserves maintain distinctive lifestyles, cultural identities, and traditional customs. These features are part of the real value of ecotourism. However, local people are not much involved in ecotourism, and most tourist guides have poor knowledge of the indigenous culture. Therefore, ecotourists get no exposure to Vietnam’s diverse cultural identities. This is a limitation that must be overcome.

In addition, local people still live in poverty, their life closely associated with natural resources. The economic benefits of ecotourism need to be shared with them, but this will not happen without community participation. China provides a positive example: a questionnaire survey by Dr. Li Wenjun (2002) showed that most residents in Jiuzhaigou Biosphere Reserve, China, have been involved in the tourist business and its relevant jobs. Participation includes operating a family hotel, restaurant, or gift shop; renting yaks, sheep, and traditional ethnic dress to visitors for photographs; working for hotels, restaurants, or tour companies; and collecting garbage in tourist areas. The family hotel business is the main income source for residents.

Case Study: Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve (CGMBR) is a rehabilitated mangrove area located within Can Gio district in the Southeast. It covers 73,000 ha including nearly 40,000 ha of mangroves. This area was largely destroyed during the war, particularly in the period 1962-1970. Restoration was begun in 1978 by the government of Ho Chi Minh City with labor provided by local people and city organizations. It became a biosphere reserve recognized by MAB/UNESCO in 2000.

Located only 40 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, with the great diversity of fauna and flora typical of tropical mangrove ecosystems, and with great historical and cultural traditions, Can Gio is becoming a favorite recreation/tourism destination for residents of the Ho Chi Minh City area.

  Natural and social background: Can Gio is uniquely valuable for its diversity—72 mangrove plant species, including 30 true and 42 associate mangrove species belonging to 10 main plant communities occupying newly formed mudflats along rivers, firm mudflats flooded by spring tides, highland sandy clay, abandoned salt pans, and brackish water areas. Some of the mangrove are rare species listed in the Vietnam Red Book, such as Lumnizera littorea and Aegiceras florida (Tuan et al. 2002). The 440 fauna species (Hong et al. 1996; Nhuong 2000, cited in Tri et al. 2000:14-15) include 118 invertebrate macro benthic, 134 fish, 9 amphibian, 30 reptile, 130 bird, and 19 mammal species (Hong et al. 2000). All of these are located in a complex and beautiful network of natural rivers and canals.

Can Gio also has a remarkable history. Archaeological evidence indicates that a relatively developed socio-economic life existed in this area in the first millennium BCE related to offshore shipping and trade with other regions. During the war years (1968-1975), this area was well known as a resistance base; the Special Water Task Force was responsible for famous victories costing the enemy great losses in war equipment and soldiers on Long Tau river. The fishing community in Can Gio also has a yearly festival to welcome the “king-fish,” a day of reunion for all local people.

Tourism in Can Gio: Recreational visits to Can Gio started spontaneously in the mid-1990s as students from the city came to visit the beach and see monkeys on the weekends. There were neither entrance fees nor services. In 2000, a new bridge was completed across the Dan Xay river, facilitating transport from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Gio town, and the Forest Park was handed over to Sai Gon tourist company. Since then, tourism in the area has been highly promoted to city residents.

There are three main tourist features in Can Gio. The Forest Park is home to a mischievous 600-member natural monkey troupe, a semi-natural crocodile pool, a historical museum, and a newly restored model of a Vietnamese army base. Visitors enjoy walking under the cool mangrove canopy and playing with the monkeys or sitting in the former army base recalling battles against enemies. Food and drink are available in the park-owned restaurant.

The Vam Sat site includes a bat sanctuary in the flooded Rhizophora area and a bird sanctuary containing over 10 species listed in the Red Book. Here visitors and scientists can find a diverse three-level fauna system: birds at the top, mammals in the middle, and aquatic organisms, including sea and brackish water species, at the lower level. A 58m  observation tower helps visitors enjoy the whole scene.

The April 30th Beach is located in the transition zone near Can Gio town. Although the long beach is not of high quality, it is near the city and features cheap local seafood, which can be enjoyed under the canopy of a nice stretch of casuarina trees. In the town itself, people can visit the mausoleum/tomb of General-Fish, a respectable traditional character of the Can Gio fishing community.

Tourism in Can Gio is in the process of transformation from a spontaneous to a professional format. Visitors are mainly residents of Ho Chi Minh City seeking relaxation, fresh air, and a natural environment as a respite from work in the busy city. Most go to the Forest Park and the beach, the numbers rising quickly from 27,213 in 1997 (Sinh 1999) to almost 230,000 in 2001. It is estimated that around 80 percent come from Ho Chi Minh City, 5 percent from the local area, 1 percent from abroad, and the remainder from other nearby provinces.

As at many other nature-tourist sites in Vietnam, educational activities are limited. Vam Sat provides visitors with basic knowledge of the ecosystem of mangrove fauna and flora, and has therefore attracted a good number of scientists and true eco-tourists. But this site has not attracted a lot of casual visitors because its lack of large car parks and long travel time by boat makes its travel cost relatively higher than the other Can Gio sites.

Can Gio district, together with city’s Department of Tourism, is planning to increase tourist sites in Can Gio in both quantity and area to make tourism the leading economic sector of the district and a strong point of the city. Tentative additions include ecological training tours, a picnic site for the city’s young people, the Sac Forest naval site, orchards, and historical sites (Department of Tourism 2002).

Management of tourism in Can Gio: The management of tourism in Can Gio is rather complex, involving both public and private parties. Two big tourist companies based in Ho Chi Minh City operate in the area—the Sai Gon Tourist Cooperation (SGT) and Phu Tho Tourist. The district’s trading company and some private enterprises operate restaurants, guest houses, and private car parks. At least 100 local families operate seafood shops, souvenir shops, drinks stands, and chair rentals. Businesses related to transportation along the main road from Ho Chi Minh City—motorcycles, buses, the ferry, and shops—also benefit from tourism development.

The management board for Can Gio protected mangrove forests, some forestry plantations, and the district’s organisations in Can Gio are planning tourist businesses of various types. And the newly established management board for April 30th Beach (under the district People’s Committee) controls the operation of shops and security there.

The impact of tourism: At the moment and in general, the impact of tourism on the local economy and society is positive. Some local community members have seen their income increase and their living standards improve through employment in beach services, in businesses along the main road, or in the big tourist companies. The most visible and general benefit to the local community is improvement in the local infrastructure. The new bridge, good roads, and electricity which support tourism also improve the life of local people.

But eco-tourism in Can Gio is also having some negative impact on the environment and the community. With the number of visitors increasingly rapidly, beach pollution is becoming a problem. Waste is collected each morning; for the rest of the day, refuse from food and drink shops are thrown into the beach creating unhygienic conditions. The operation of shops and services by local people who lack knowledge of tourism and business practices has led to unfair competition among the food sellers and chair renters and to social evils such as fighting.

To make this sector socially healthy and sustainable, local people involved in tourism and tourist company employees should be reorganized and given training in sustainable eco-tourism. A good management board should also be established to control the activities of all stakeholders and ensure their activities do not go beyond the permitted level.

Recommendations

There are four main areas that deserve priority in improving eco-tourism in Vietnam:

• Concerned bodies from the local to the central levels should coordinate planning, ecotourism policy-making, the compilation of guidebooks, and the conservation of vulnerable ecosystems, wild life, and cultural integrity.
• Baseline studies of the natural environment of potential ecotourism areas should be carried out. These include Environmental Impact Assessments of ecotourism activities and research into carrying capacity to avoid overconcentration of tourists, too many hotels, and a level of noise and transportation that would seriously affect local life and natural environments.
• Ecotourist guides should undergo compulsory training at colleges or universities. Staff, especially managers, should be equipped with professional skills and basic knowledge of ecotourist practices at home and abroad.
• Local communities should be engaged in ecotourism—not only in generating greater income, but also in conservation work. This may require the development of special schemes.

Phan Nguyen Hong, Quan Thi Quynh Dao, Le Kim Thoa Phan Nguyen Hong, Quan Thi Quynh Dao and Le Kim Thoa work at the Mangrove Ecosystem Research Division, Centre for Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. The case study presented in this paper is an initial finding from the project funded by the MAB/UNESCO within the Young MAB Scientist Award Programme 2002, and was undertaken with Le Kim Thoa. The author would like to express great gratitude to MAB/UNESCO for this support. 

Kyoto Review of Southeast Asia . Issue 2 (October 2002). Disaster and Rehabilitation

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Stories of Places, People and Photography in the Philippines and Beyond

Nueva Vizcaya | Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park: Back to Nature

A sprawling 1120 hectare of land situated on the lower part of the mighty Magat River in Cagayan Valley has been converted into an eco-park, descriptively named Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park of LMET . The eco-park is under the municipality of Diadi , north of Nueva Vizcaya, already bounded by Isabela and Ifugao provinces. This was our playground after covering the Ammungan Festival’s Street Dancing for that day. A much deserved brief respite at the heart of a forest.

Back to Nature

It took about an hour’s drive from Solano before we reached the entrance of Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park . From the national highway, we got off the road and into a dirt path cutting through a forest abound of gmenilas and other trees. The provincial government acquired this land from DENR in 1969 to preserve and develop this place as a high-end back-to-nature park. It was only 2005 when development started, and from the looks of it, the process was slow but surely doing well.

At the moment there are already lodging facilities in the area for people staying overnight. We stayed at Yakal Hall , a two-story building with several spacious and comfy rooms with a small veranda at the back. Other interesting lodgings are the Isanai-inspired native houses which looks very charming. There are also Ifugao houses nestled on a hill enclosed by trees for those who want to experience staying in their traditional hut.

Eco-adventures

The Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park  already have established trails to explore and it can easily be done on foot. There’s the fishing area and soon to be a site for a floating restaurant. Past that area is a small serene lake with native huts one side people can stay overnight. A small pier gives a offers a closer look at the lake. I also like how LMET have landscaped the surrounding area with a variety of plants and flowers to give it color. It became my favorite spot at the park. They do have to do something about the power lines obstructing the view.

Just at the opposite side of the lake is a nice moderate-size swimming pool simply for splashing around. It is divided into two with the deeper 5-feet pool on one side to the shallow kiddie pool on the other side. The place really has so much potential I wish we had more time to explore the area. There are hiking trails for those who want to explore nearby hills also for bird watching . Mountain biking is also ideal but as of now it’s best to bring your own bike. Huge camping grounds and pavilions for family or company retreats. To those who really nature escapes or outdoor enthusiast, Lower Magat Eco-tourism Park

Essential Information

How to go to Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park : From Solano you can ride any of the following:

• Jeep bound for Santiago
• Bus bound for Tuguegarao or Santiago
• Van bound for Santiago or Cordon

Tell the driver to drop you off at San Luis, Eco Park , just after Diadi National High School and the DENR Check Point . Transport fare ranges from Php 40-50 . From the National Highway, it is still 1.2 km away to the park. If there are tricycles, take a 5-minute ride for Php 10 per pax. Other wise take a 15-minute walk to the park proper.

Lower Magat Eco Tourism Park Contact: Ms Nonette Parucha Mobile: 09274874217

Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.

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Open Access

Peer-reviewed

Research Article

A comparative study of environmental responsibility behavior in ecotourism from the perceptions of residents and tourists: A case of Qilian Mountains National Park in China

Contributed equally to this work with: Yaobin Wang, Ruitao Zhao

Roles Investigation, Supervision, Validation

Affiliation School of Tourism, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China

Roles Conceptualization, Data curation, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

* E-mail: [email protected]

Roles Writing – review & editing

• Yaobin Wang, 
• Ruitao Zhao, 
• Zhenbing Yan, 
• Meizhen Wang, 
• Yinggang Pan, 

• Published: February 24, 2023
• https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119
• Reader Comments

The environmentally responsible behaviors of residents and tourists are great significance to the protection of natural resources and sustainable development of ecotourism. This paper takes China’s Qilian Mountains National Park as the case place. By constructing a theoretical model of perceived value on environmentally responsible behavior and studying the relationship between residents’ and tourists’ perceived value, satisfaction and environmentally responsible behavior from both subject and object perspectives, the study shows that. Educational level and occupational distribution have significant effects on residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of ecotourism environmentally responsible behaviors, but age only has a significant effect on residents’ perceptions of ecotourism environmentally responsible behaviors. Gender differences do not affect residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of ecotourism environmentally responsible behaviors. The theoretical model between residents’ perceptions of environmentally responsible behaviors, environmentally responsible behaviors, and satisfaction was basically confirmed. Perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists does not affect satisfaction. Satisfaction has a positive effect on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors. Perceived environmental responsibility of tourists has a significant positive effect on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors. The overall level of residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors in ecotourism is higher than tourists’ perception. Residents and tourists have a poor perception of ecological and environmental protection policies. This paper expects to strengthen residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of ecologically responsible behaviors. Establishing the sentiment of satisfaction and commitment to environmental protection motivates residents and tourists to implement environmentally responsible behaviors and contribute to the sustainable development of ecotourism.

Citation: Wang Y, Zhao R, Yan Z, Wang M, Pan Y, Wu R (2023) A comparative study of environmental responsibility behavior in ecotourism from the perceptions of residents and tourists: A case of Qilian Mountains National Park in China. PLoS ONE 18(2): e0281119. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119

Editor: Wajid Khan, University of Baltistan, PAKISTAN

Received: September 6, 2022; Accepted: January 13, 2023; Published: February 24, 2023

Copyright: © 2023 Wang et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Data Availability: All relevant data are within the paper and its Supporting Information files.

Funding: This research was funded by National Natural Science Foundation of China, grant number 41661107; Philosophy and Social Sciences Project of Gansu Province grant number YB038. Yaobin Wang received two funding grants of 50,000 yuan and was prepared to use the funds when deciding to publish.

Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

1. Introduction

National parks are of vital ecological strategic significance to the protection of resources and environment and the sustainable development of tourism. While enjoying the natural scenery, tourists took responsibility for protecting nature and reduced the environmental impact of their activities [ 1 ]. At the same time, the funds from consumption in ecotourism areas were used to protect ecological areas with natural resources [ 2 ]. Ecotourism is growing at an annual rate of 20–25%, making it the fastest growing tourism product in China [ 3 ]. However, with the surge in the number of tourists, the uncivilized behavior of tourists has caused a certain degree of damage to the natural environment of the national parks, affecting the perceived behaviors of the residents [ 4 ]. As participants in tourism activities and subjects of ecological environment protection, residents’ and tourists’ environmental responsibility behaviors are an effective way to reduce the negative impact of recreation and enhance the sustainable development ability of ecotourism in national parks [ 5 ]. Achieving sustainable development in tourist destinations requires fostering and improving the implementation of environmentally responsible behaviors by residents and tourists [ 6 ]. Zhang [ 7 ] found that a satisfying tourism experience can enhance the environmentally friendly behaviors of tourists. Perceived value is considered an important influential factor in improving tourist satisfaction [ 8 , 9 ]. Chiu et al. [ 10 ] found that tourist satisfaction not only significantly enhances pro-environmental behaviors and influences tourist perceptions. Zhuang et al. [ 11 ] found that residents, as social individuals closely related to tourist destinations, have positive or negative value perceptions of tourism development, which influence residents cognition, attitude and behaviors [ 12 ]. Guo et al. [ 13 ] confirmed the influence of the perceptions of the residents of the ancient town tourism sites on their behaviors. Zhu et al. [ 14 ] explored the impact of residents’ perceptions of tourism development on their life satisfaction based on social exchange theory. Yi et al. [ 15 ] argued that investigating residents’ pro-environmental behaviors and satisfaction is an important prerequisite basis for developing destination tourism and carrying out tourism planning.

Scholars have analyzed the perceived value, satisfaction and behavioral intentions of residents and tourists in different areas [ 16 , 17 ], but most studies have been conducted from a single perception perspective of residents or tourists. There is a lack of studies comparing the relationship between residents’ and tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors, perceptions and satisfaction from both host and guest perspectives, and there is a lack of theoretical support for perceptions of environmental responsibility and satisfaction. There is an urgent need for an effective theory to guide the research process to achieve sustainable ecotourism. The theory of planned behavior explains the mechanism of action by which perception influences behaviors and provides a basis for understanding the relationship between residents and tourists’ perceptions and behaviors. Emotional adaptation theory holds that an individual may not react satisfactorily or unsatisfactorily until they perceive something, which helps provide insight into the relationship between perception and satisfaction.

In conclusion, this paper takes the Qilian Mountains National Park in China as the research object and compares the relationship between residents’ and tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors, perceptions, and satisfaction based on a dual perspective of host and guest and the theory of planned behavior and emotional adaptation. This paper expects to strengthen residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of eco-responsible behaviors, establish satisfaction and responsibility for environmental protection, encourage residents and tourists to implement environmentally responsible behaviors and contribute to the sustainable development of ecotourism.

2. Literature review

2.1 environmentally responsible behaviors.

Research on environmentally responsible behaviors dates to the 1970s, when Borden [ 18 ] defined it as actions taken by individuals or groups to improve the environment. Lehman [ 19 ] considered environmentally responsible behaviors as the behavior and efforts made by individuals to protect the environment, emphasizing environmentally conscious participation and concern. Kollmuss [ 20 ] defines it as an act by an individual or organization to protect the environment by working to have a minimal impact on the environment. With the development of research, environmentally responsible behaviors have been applied to tourism research. Xu [ 21 ] divides tourism environmental responsibility behaviors into two dimensions: self-discipline behaviors and conservation-promoting behavior. Lee [ 22 ] divides environmental responsibility behaviors into physical behaviors, pro-environmental behaviors, civic behaviors, environmentally friendly behaviors, persuasive behaviors, financial behaviors, and sustainable behaviors. Luo et al. [ 23 ] defined environmental responsibility behaviors as proactive actions performed by individuals based on their values and sense of responsibility that contribute to environmental protection and sustainable, and extended the concept of environmental responsibility behaviors to tourists. Zhang et al. [ 24 ] considered environmental responsibility behaviors as necessary actions taken by individuals for environmental protection that contribute to the health of the environment. Cai [ 25 ] argues that environmental responsibility behaviors are the result of the interaction between tourism activities and the environment and are essential for the ecological sustainability of tourism destinations and sustainable tourism development. Lee [ 26 ] argued that residents’ environmental responsibility behaviors refer to the various behavioral activities that residents exhibit in the face of a series of environmental changes and environmental problems with specificity and relevance.

This paper defines environmental responsibility behavior as the behavior of residents and tourists to maintain the natural ecological environment of tourist sites under certain tourism conditions, which is beneficial to the environmental health of the tourist place.

2.2 Satisfaction

Research on satisfaction in tourism science dates to the 1970s and refers to customer-centered research on consumer attitudes and prediction of behavioral activities based on customer satisfaction [ 27 ]. Pizam [ 28 ] considers the gap between tourists’ expectations before the tour and their feelings after the experience as tourist satisfaction. Later scholars have also mostly borrowed from Pizam and enriched and refined it, contributing to the development of the connotation of tourism satisfaction. Barker [ 29 ] pointed out that tourist satisfaction is a collection of tourists’ perceptions of the tourism environment, infrastructure, and services in a comprehensive evaluation. Li [ 30 ] argues that tourist satisfaction is a sense of pleasure that can be enhanced by a evaluation of the perception of the tourism environment. Bosque [ 31 ] believe that the personal cognitive and emotional states generated by tourism experience are called satisfaction. Swan [ 32 ] further enriched the meaning of satisfaction by dividing perceptions into tourism input perceptions and tourism output perceptions through a social exchange perspective of "inputs and outputs". When tourism input perceptions are smaller than tourism output perceptions, tourism participants become satisfied, and vice versa, dissatisfied. Francken et al. [ 33 ] assessed satisfaction based on a tourist experience perspective and concluded that the difference between tourists’ perceptions of ideal and actual tourism experiences determines the level of satisfaction. Zhang [ 34 ] explored the definition of satisfaction, which he considered to be a comprehensive psychological evaluation. Chen & Tsai [ 35 ] believes that satisfaction is the total pleasure of visiting a destination. Han [ 16 ] defines satisfaction as the degree to which perceptions of experience compare with tourism expectations.

This paper defines satisfaction as the degree of satisfaction of residents or tourists with the current state of the local ecotourism environment. Only by developing a tourism industry that meets the satisfaction of residents and tourists can local governments develop tourism in a more locally appropriate and sustainable manner.

2.3 Tourism environment perception

The study of perception in tourism studies dates to the 1980s, Morrison [ 36 ] considered tourist perceived value as a psychological evaluation of the tourism product determined by tourists after assessing the costs they pay and the benefits they obtain. Stevens [ 37 ] considered tourism perception as the result of tourists’ evaluation of the quality and level of service after experiencing tourism services. David [ 38 ] analyzed the perceptions of the residents of tourist places and found that the residents of cities with more rapid tourism development have negative attitudes toward the development of tourism. With the development of research, scholars begun to explore tourism environment perception. Bai [ 39 ] believes that tourism perception is the awareness and evaluation of the tourism environment and services formed by residents and tourists after comparing the tourism information they received at the tourist places with their own experiences. Cheng et al. [ 40 ] consider that tourism environment perception is the fundamental factor that restricts and regulates tourism behavior. Zhang et al. [ 41 ] argue that tourism environmental responsibility perception is the condition and basis for tourists and residents to implement environmentally responsible behaviors. Zhu and Lubell [ 42 , 43 ] consider the perception of environmentally responsible behaviors in tourism as the perception that an individual’s behaviors in tourism activities are influenced by the behaviors of other individuals, thus regulating their behaviors in implementing environmental resource conservation.

3. Research hypothesis

3.1 hypothesis of the relationship between perceived environmentally responsible behaviors and satisfaction.

Emotional adaptation theory suggests that individuals may react to an event in a satisfactory or unsatisfactory manner only after perceiving it. In the research context of this paper, residents and tourists will develop certain perceptions of environmentally responsible behaviors concerning the natural environment and personnel activities that they are exposed to or perceive during ecotourism. The harmonious environmental protection atmosphere and beautiful environment in the scenic spot inspire the enthusiasm of residents and tourists and improve their satisfaction. Several studies have been conducted to identify the role of environmental perceptions in influencing satisfaction. Hao’s research [ 44 ] confirmed that perceptions of the tourist environment directly affect the lives of residents and the satisfaction of tourists with tourism. Huang et al. [ 45 ] found that by increasing residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of the tourism environment, they could enhance their satisfaction with tourism activities. Gong et al. [ 46 ] found that the higher the tourist’s perception of tourism, the higher their satisfaction. Similar findings were found by Zhang et al. [ 47 ] in their study of residents. Based on the above analysis and research basis, the following hypotheses are proposed in this paper.

• H1: Residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors has a positive effect on satisfaction
• H2: Perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists have a positive effect on satisfaction

3.2 Hypothesis of the relationship between satisfaction and environmentally responsible behaviors

Satisfaction is a positive affective attitude of residents or tourists arising from their participation in tourism activities. Numerous studies in the field of tourism confirm the relationship between satisfaction and positive behaviors of residents and tourists. When residents and tourists develop satisfaction emotions during their participation in tourism activities, they take the responsibility to protect the environment and implement behaviors that are beneficial to the environment. López-Mosquera & Sánchez [ 48 ] showed that the higher the tourist satisfaction with the destination, the higher the tendency to have environmentally responsible behaviors in most cases and the more pro-environmental positive behaviors. Davis et al. [ 49 ] found that tourists who are more satisfied with the destination are more willing to spend time and effort in the natural conservation of the destination. Chiu et al. [ 10 ] scholars confirmed that tourist satisfaction can significantly enhance their pro-environmental behavior. He et al. [ 50 ] confirmed from the perspective of community involvement that the higher the satisfaction of residents, the higher their willingness to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors. Wang et al. [ 51 ] found that the more satisfied residents are with the environment of a tourist destination, the more willing they are to engage in environmentally responsible behaviors through a study of the residents. Although the above research background on the relationship between satisfaction and environmentally responsible behaviors varies, most studies show that tourist satisfaction is an important predictor of environmentally responsible behaviors. A high level of satisfaction implies immediate or future positive environmental protection behaviors on the part of tourists. Therefore, the following hypothesis is proposed in this paper.

• H3: Satisfaction has a positive effect on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors
• H4: Satisfaction has a positive effect on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors

3.3 Hypothesis of the relationship between perceived environmentally responsible behaviors and environmentally responsible behaviors

The theory of planned behavior assumes that an individual’s perceptions influence behavior norms. Individual behavior is not completely independent and in many cases is influenced by external factors. Environmental perceptions and policy perceptions can influence environmentally responsible behaviors. Residents and tourists facing a beautiful natural environment will develop a desire to protect it and pay attention to the impact of their behaviors on the environment. When the people in the scenic area perform environmentally responsible behaviors by example and protect the environment, individuals in the environment will also consciously obey the practice of protecting the environment. There is a correlation between residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of environmental responsibility and their implementation of environmentally responsible behaviors. Ming [ 52 ] found that awareness of environmental responsibility in tourism is the condition and basis for tourists and residents to carry out environmental responsibility. Wang et al. [ 53 ] found that public environmental facilities in scenic spots can promote environmentally responsible behaviors among tourists. Li et al [ 54 ] found a positive contribution of perceived environmental services in scenic areas to environmentally responsible behavior. Xia et al. [ 55 ] found that when residents live in places with beautiful environments, they have a sense of pleasure and pride in their hearts and take the initiative to take responsibility for protecting the environment. Huang [ 56 ] also found similar findings in a study of tourists. Based on the above analysis and research basis, the following hypothesis is proposed in this paper.

• H5: The perception of residents’ environmentally responsible behavior has a positive effect on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors
• H6: Perceived environmentally responsible behavior of tourists has a positive influence on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors

To verify the above assumptions, a theoretical model is constructed, as shown in Fig 1 .

• PPT PowerPoint slide
• PNG larger image
• TIFF original image

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.g001

4. Study design and data collection

4.1 case site selection.

China’s Qilian Mountains National Park ( Fig 2 ) is located at the junction of Qinghai and Gansu provinces with an altitude of 1684–5604 meters. It is surrounded by the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in the south and the Hexi Corridor in the north, with diverse natural ecosystems and abundant wildlife resources. It is an extremely important ecological functional area for glacier and water conservation, wildlife migration corridors, biological special resource banks and genetic gene banks in China. It is also a key ecological function area and a barrier to ecological security in China. The park generally runs from northwest to southeast, with a narrow and long area. Its total area is 5.02×104km 2 , with eight nature reserves, a core protection area of 27,500 square kilometers and a general control area of 22,700 square kilometers. The protected area is home to 53,243 residents in 14 counties.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.g002

4.2 Questionnaire design

Referring to scholars on the scale of ecotourism environmental responsibility behaviors perceived by residents and tourists [ 57 – 59 ], combined with the actual situation of the case site, the questionnaire was designed. The questionnaire was based on recognized scales of knowledge and concern for the ecological environment. Questions on environmental responsibility were added. The resident and visitor questionnaires included demographic characteristics (sex, age, education, occupation), overall perception of ecotourism environment, perception of ecological environmental protection policy and perception of ecotourism environment in Qilian Mountains National Park. Since residents and tourists have different perceptions of the environmental impact of ecotourism, the two questionnaires asked different questions, and both were measured using the Likert scale. Table 1 gives the definition and measurement options of the research dimensions.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t001

4.3 Data collection

To verify the scientific validity of the questionnaire, a pilot test of residents and visitors of China’s Qilian Mountains National Park was conducted. In the pilot test, 50 questionnaires were distributed to residents and 60 to tourists, 47 and 55 were returned respectively. After screening, 43 valid questionnaires for residents and 52 valid questionnaires for tourists were obtained, and the effective recovery rates were 86.00% and 86.67%. The reliability of the questionnaire was tested by CITC and Cronbach’s alpha. The test results for residents and tourists are shown in Table 2 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t002

The 20 items of the pilot test were tested for reliability, and the initial reliability of the questionnaire for residents and tourists was 0.742 and 0.661, the CITC values of A 3 , D 4 , E 4 , and E 5 were all less than 0.3. After the above items were deleted, the reliability coefficients were 0.836 and 0.854. The reliability values after removal were higher than the initial values, and the items were deleted from the process. To have a more comprehensive perception of ecological environmental protection policy, item C 3 was added. The test results are shown in Table 3 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t003

According to the analysis of the questionnaire results, C 3 has a good reliability. The 17 items of the questionnaire do not meet the deletion conditions, have a good reliability, and meet the requirements for collection and research.

5. Case study analysis

5.1 data sources and methods.

Questionnaires were administered to residents and tourists of Qilian Mountains National Park using a random sampling method. The questionnaires were entrusted to regional-related personnel for distribution in January 2022, and the collection was completed in February 2022. A total of 876 valid questionnaires were collected, including 335 questionnaires for residents and 541 questionnaires for tourists. Using Spss23.0 and Amos23.0, linear regression analysis and path analysis tests were used to analyze the obtained questionnaire data to compare and study the relationship between residents’ and tourists’ perceptions of environmentally responsible behaviors, environmentally responsible behavior and satisfaction. Underage participants were asked to complete the questionnaire with the consent of their parents and themselves. The questionnaires in this paper were filled out voluntarily by the respondents. All respondents were informed and actively participated in the questionnaire completion process. Questionnaires completed by respondents can be used as supporting information.

5.2 Demographic profiles

Table 4 shows that in this questionnaire survey, the ratio of gender and age of residents and tourists were roughly the same, the distribution of education level and occupation reached the expected standard, and the demographic profile has a good degree of contrast. These all met the requirements of the survey.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t004

5.3 Reliability test

To verify the internal consistency of each variable item, reliability tests were carried out for the construct in the questionnaires of residents and tourists. The results are shown in Tables 5 and 6 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t005

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t006

The reliability of the tourist questionnaire is 0.880, meaning that that the indicators of this questionnaire are consistent. The reliability of Cronbach’s α for each element is between 0.756–0.866, all greater than 0.7, indicating that the reliability of the tourist questionnaire is good and meets the requirements of internal consistency.

The reliability of tourist questionnaire is 0.800; the indicators of this questionnaire are therefore consistent. The reliability of Cronbach’s α for each element is between 0.717–0.873, all greater than 0.7, indicating good reliability of the tourist questionnaire and that it meets all criteria of internal consistency.

5.4 Sample dependent variable analysis

To verify whether sociodemographic characteristics can significantly change the measurement results, and whether there is an interaction among sociodemographic characteristics, this research conducted an independent samples t-test for the statistical characteristic option of gender and a one-way ANOVA for age, education, and occupation, while testing for differences in the correlations between the independent and dependent variables.

5.4.1 The results of the questionnaire on residents’ perception of environmental responsibility.

The results of the descriptive statistical analysis of resident questionnaire are shown in Table 7 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t007

Table 7 shows that residents’ perceptions of eco-environmental protection policies and their perceptions of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors are more divergent in opinion. The residents’ overall perception of the ecotourism environment and the perceived level of environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists is weak, and there is still much room to improve the development of local ecotourism and meet the residents’ demands for ecotourism development. Therefore, it is very important to expand the positive impact of ecotourism by providing targeted countermeasures and improving the perception of residents. The government should take relevant measures to strengthen the guidance of ecological environment management and ensure the balance between environmental protection and tourism development, so that residents can enjoy the benefits brought by ecotourism, while encouraging them to actively participate in the act of ecological environmental protection.

Table 8 shows that by comparing the demographic characteristics of the residents while satisfying independence and chi-square, it is found that the demographic characteristics of the residents have a more significant effect on their perception of environmental responsibility. Gender differences do not differ significantly across constructs, which means resident gender does not affect the dimensional elements. Age, education level and occupation had a significant effect on residents perceived environmental responsibility impact of ecotourism. Therefore, it is necessary to survey residents of different ages, education levels and occupations.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t008

As shown in Table 9 , it is found through correlation analysis that, there is a significant positive correlation between the overall perception of ecotourism environment, environmental perception of ecotourism in Qilian Mountains National Park, ecological environmental protection policy perception, perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of residents and the perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists. The ecotourism environment perception in Qilian Mountains National Park contains the situation of satisfaction with the ecological environment and ecotourism development. To explore significant influence of the positive correlation of other dimensions on satisfaction, the construct of ecotourism perception in Qilian Mountains National Park was converted into satisfaction. Referring to He [ 50 ], TD 1 and TD 2 were studied as residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors, and the resident model fitting indicators are shown in Table 10 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t009

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t010

The Amos 23.0 software was applied to perform the fitting. The specific fitting indexes are shown in Table 10 . χ 2 = 239.742, df = 196, χ 2 / df = 1.739, GFI = 0.936, AGFI = 0.915, RMSEA = 0.332, NFI = 0.937, CFI = 0.985, TLI = 0.924. All the fit indicators meet the judgment criteria, and the overall fit is good. The fit of the resident model to the data is at a better level, and the SEM hypothetical path can be checked and analyzed.

From Table 11 , residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors has a significant positive effect on satisfaction (p<0.01), and the path coefficient is 0.496, indicating that residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors can improve the satisfaction level to some extent, and H1 passes the test. This may be because the residents feel the good ecological environment in the national park and have a higher level of perception to generate satisfaction. Satisfaction has a positive effect (p<0.05) on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors with a path coefficient of 0.638, and hypothesis H3 holds, which is consistent with the findings of Tu [ 60 ] et al. The perception of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors had a significant positive effect on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors (P<0.01), with a path coefficient of 0.494, and H5 passed the test, which is consistent with the findings of Wang [ 61 ]. It is necessary to strengthen the publicity and education of ecotourism environmental protection, improve the level of residents’ ecotourism environmental perception and satisfaction, and improve environmental responsibility behavior. So that residents can participate more actively in ecological environmental protection behaviors.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t011

5.4.2 The results of the questionnaire on tourists’ perception of environmental responsibility.

The results of the descriptive statistical analysis of the tourist questionnaire are shown in Table 12 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t012

Table 12 shows that tourists diverge in their perceptions of the ecotourism environment in Qilian Mountains National Park and the environmentally responsible behaviors of residents. The perceptions of tourists about the overall ecotourism environment, the perceptions of ecotourism environment in Qilian Mountains National Park, the perceptions of ecological environmental protection policies, the perceptions of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors, and the perceptions of tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors are not satisfactory, and the perceptions tend to be at a lower level. Therefore, it is very important to improve this perception. To strengthen the ecological protection of China’s Qilian Mountain National Park, the scenic spot should include environmental education in the planning of the scenic spot, to arouse the public’s ecological awareness and draw the attention of residents and tourists to the environment, thus contributing to the protection of the ecotourism area’s environment.

As shown in Table 13 , while satisfying the independence and homogeneity of variance, by comparing the differences between different types of tourists, it is found that the demographic characteristics of tourists have a significant impact on tourists’ perception of environmental responsibility. Gender differences do not differ significantly across constructs and tourists’ gender differences do not affect the dimensional elements in this paper. Educational level and occupation have certain significant effects on tourists’ perception of environmental responsibility. Therefore, it is necessary to study tourists of different levels of education and occupations.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t013

As shown in Table 14 , it is found through correlation analysis that, there is a significant positive correlation between the overall perception of ecotourism environment, environmental perception of ecotourism in Qilian Mountains National Park, ecological environmental protection policy perception, perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of residents and the perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists. Consistent with the conclusions drawn from the resident questionnaire. The same steps as the residents’ questionnaire scale analysis were used to convert the perception of ecotourism environment in Qilian Mountains National Park into satisfaction. Referring to the study of Lu [ 17 ] and Gong [ 46 ], QD 1 and QD 2 were studied as tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors, and the tourist model fitting indicators are shown in Table 15 .

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t014

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t015

The Amos 23.0 software was applied to perform the fitting. The specific fitting indexes are shown in Table 15 . χ 2 = 217.376, df = 182, χ 2 / df = 1.325, GFI = 0.912, AGFI = 0.938, RMSEA = 0.035, NFI = 0.929, CFI = 0.944, TLI = 0.932. All the fitting indicators met the judgment criteria, and the overall fit was good enough for the SEM hypothetical path check and analysis.

As shown in Table 16 , the effect of tourists’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors on satisfaction failed the significance test (p>0.05), and hypothesis H2 was rejected, which is inconsistent with the findings of Dou [ 62 ]. It may be because the ecological resources in Qilian Mountains National Park deviate from tourists’ expectations, and there is a need to further explore the cultural connotation of the national park, to develop and utilize the core resources moderately based on ecological protection, and to improve the satisfaction level of tourists. Satisfaction has a positive effect on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors (p<0.05), with a path coefficient of 0.496, and hypothesis H4 passed the test. The reason for this may be that tourists’ satisfaction experience with the tourist place promotes the formation of their sense of identity, which in turn leads to the desire to protect the environment. Tourist perception of environmental responsibility had a significant positive effect on tourist environmentally responsible behaviors (p<0.01), with a path coefficient of 0.402 and H6 passing the test, consistent with the findings of Zhao [ 63 ]. By increasing tourists’ sense of responsibility for the environment in national parks, local government can stimulate their motivation to participate in environmental protection.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t016

5.4.3 Comparative analysis of ecotourism responsibility in China’s Qilian Mountains National Park from the perspectives of hosts and guests.

According to the Likert scale, 1<mean<2.5 is low, 2.5≤mean≤3.5 is medium, 3.5<mean≤5 is high. Table 17 shows that the overall perception of residents is more positive and obvious than tourists. The average level of tourists’ overall perception of the ecotourism environment exceeds 3.5, indicating that tourists are more optimistic about the development of ecotourism. In the five items, except for ecological environmental protection policy perception, the rest perception levels are above medium. The differences in perceptions of ecological environmental protection policies (p = 0.042, -0.08) and perceived environmentally responsible behaviors of residents (p = 0.031, +0.60) were more obvious between residents and tourists. In ecological environmental protection policy perception, residents have a dissatisfied attitude, tourists have a neutral attitude, and both residents (low level rate: 44.6%, high level rate: 35.3%) and tourists (low level rate: 36.3%, high level rate: 48.2%) are divided in their opinions. The reasons for this might be the weak implementation of local government regulations, unclear division of authority and responsibility between departments, neglect of goal-oriented ecological environmental protection, and lack of an effective environmental monitoring system, which makes the perception level of residents and tourists low. In the perception of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors, both tourists and residents are neutral, residents (low level rate: 30.4%, high level rate: 39.6%), with more divergent opinions, and tourists (low level rate: 22.7%, high level rate: 71.8%), with less divergent differences. The reason for this might be that residents are more aware of specific local developments and better able to understand the specific problems of local development than tourists. Some residents do not have a solid concept of ecological civilization, and are obsessed with the pursuit of economic gains, ignoring the ecological and environmental problems brought about by economic development, bringing a series of negative impacts to the development of ecotourism in Qilian Mountains National Park.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t017

Table 18 shows that the average value of perceptions of residents and tourists generally exceeds 3.0, which is in the medium and above medium level, and the perceived level is well. The perception level of residents about C 1 , C 2 , and C 3 is poor, and the perceived level of tourists about C 1 , C 2 , and C 3 is weaker than other tourist items, so it is necessary to conduct a detailed analysis (Fig 4.1). In D 2 , the average values of perceptions of residents and visitors are 1.41 and 1.12, indicating that residents follow the rules of the environmental protection order in the national park. In QE 1 and QE 2 , the perceived average value exceeds 3.5, indicating that residents are agreeable to the environmentally responsible behaviors of tourists. In TD 1 , the perceived average value of tourists is 2.97, with widely divergent opinions (approval rate 59.6%, disapproval rate 36.3%), and local management should take measures to enable residents to take the initiative to clean up the garbage in scenic spots. In general, the perception level of residents is higher than that of visitors, which is consistent with the results of the survey analysis derived above.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281119.t018

According to Fig 2 , residents and tourists have the same opinions on C 1 and C 2 , the government’s investment and supervision in ecological environment governance are insufficient, and the public believes that the existing ecotourism environmental protection regulations are flawed. In C 3 , residents and tourists have very different opinions. The residents know more than tourists about ecological environment management technology. In D 1 , the approval rates of both residents and tourists are over 55%. Residents who participate in tourism activities pay more attention to tourism income than to environmental protection. The irresponsible environmental behaviors of residents may cause a series of ecological and environmental problems.

6. Conclusion and discussion

In the aspect of perception of ecotourism, residents have a limited perception. Gender differences among residents do not affect their questionnaire. Age, education and occupation distribution have a significant impact on residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behavior, which may explain why residents of different ages, education levels and occupations have different opinions on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors. In research, it is necessary to survey a diverse range of residents to ensure accuracy. In the correlation verification analysis, a significant positive correlation was found among the aspects in this study. Improving the correlation among aspects is key to improving the perception of tourists’ environmentally responsible behavior. The positive effect of residents’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors on satisfaction may be due to the high perceived level of satisfaction resulting from the residents’ perception of a good ecological environment in the national park. Satisfaction has a positive effect on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors, which is consistent with the findings of Tu [ 60 ] et al. Enhancing residents’ satisfaction is necessary to promote the implementation of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors. The perception of residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors has a significant positive impact on residents’ environmentally responsible behaviors, which is consistent with the findings of Wang [ 61 ]. It is necessary to strengthen the publicity and education of ecotourism environmental protection, to improve the level of residents’ ecotourism environmental perception and satisfaction, and to improve environmental responsibility behaviors. So that residents can participate more actively in ecological environmental protection behaviors.

Tourists in China’s Qilian Mountain National Park have a low perception of ecotourism and of residents. Gender differences do not affect the components of the tourist questionnaire. Unlike the residents’ questionnaire, only differences in education and occupation have a significant impact on tourists’ perception of ecotourism environmentally responsible behavior. This is because most of the tourists in the survey are students and corporate employees. Their perception of ecological environmental responsibility may not be affected by age. The correlation verification analysis found a significant positive correlation among several aspects of this study. The perception of ecotourism is an independent positive influencing factor on satisfaction, which indicates that for tourists, strengthening the governance of the ecological environment and creating a comfortable place are the keys to improving tourist satisfaction. The effect of tourists’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors on satisfaction failed the significance test, which is inconsistent with the findings of Dou [ 62 ], probably because the ecological resources in Qilian Mountains National Park have a large deviation from tourists’ expectations, and it is necessary to further explore the cultural connotation of the national park, and to develop and utilize the core resources moderately on the basis of environment protection to enhance tourists’ satisfaction level. Satisfaction has a positive effect on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors, probably because tourists’ satisfaction experience with a tourist place can promote the formation of their sense of identity, which in turn can lead to the development of a willingness to protect the environment. The significant positive effect of tourists’ perception of environmental responsibility on tourists’ environmentally responsible behaviors is consistent with the findings of Zhao [ 63 ]. The motivation of tourists to consciously participate in environmental protection can be stimulated by enhancing their perceptions of environmental responsibility in national parks.

Through the comparative analysis of residents’ and tourists’ perception of ecotourism environmental responsibility, it is concluded that the perception of residents is more positive and obvious than tourists. It may explain why residents are more aware than tourists of the potential of ecotourism development in China’s Qilian Mountains National Park, and are more optimistic about solving local environmental responsibility problems. Residents and tourists are optimistic about ecotourism. However, residents are dissatisfied with laws and regulations, tourists are neutral, and both residents and tourists have divergence opinions about laws and regulations. The local government has ignored the goal-oriented ecological environmental protection, and the implementation of the ecological protection system was not compulsory and lacked supervision. Both surveyed residents and tourists hold a neutral attitude in their perceptions of residents, but surveyed residents have greater disagreement and tourists have less divergence of opinions about their perceptions of residents, which are inconsistent with the conclusion of Isdell et al. [ 64 ] and Hong [ 57 ]. Perhaps residents have a better understanding of local issues than tourists do. Some residents may pursue economic benefits while ignoring the ecological and environmental problems caused by economic development.

7.Research recommendations

It is important to improve the supervision and management of scenic spots. The level of regulation in Qilian Mountains National Park is closely related to the environmentally responsible behaviors of residents and tourists. The poor maintenance of facilities in some areas of the park has been dangerous. Park managers should provide safe, pleasant, and comfortable ecological sightseeing places for residents and tourists. They should also strengthen the formulation and implementation of scenic spot management norms, encourage residents and visitors to think about their own actions and behaviors through a variety of avenues, strengthen the residents’ and tourists’ perception of environmentally responsible behaviors, change ecologically destructive behaviors, and making ecotourism sustainable.

It is advisable for the government to change the ecological environment concepts and to and promote the balance between ecological environment protection and economic development. The local government sets the tone for ecological environment governance. The results of this study found that the local government paid more attention to economic development than to environmental protection, and some residents were anxious about the balance between revenue and ecological protection. It is necessary for local management departments to enact policies, so that residents can enjoy the benefits of ecotourism while protecting the environment. The government can increase funding, develop agriculture, and help low-income residents participate in the development and construction of ecotourism. The residents of China’s Qilian Mountains National Park should participate in the development of ecotourism and promote environmentally responsible behavior. In addition, the government should establish a robust scientific assessment and evaluation system, enriching innovative supervision, and improving constraints, so that residents and tourists can supervise ecological environmental protection.

It is vital to strengthen publicity and guidance on environmentally responsible behaviors for residents and tourists. The key to promoting the development of ecotourism is to expand the positive impact of ecotourism, and to enhance the perception of residents and tourists. Questionnaire surveys and research results showed that tourists were aware of environmental responsibility, but this awareness may not be reflected in environmentally responsible behaviors, such as the lack of tourists’ participation in ecological environmental protection. In the future, while raising people’s awareness of environmental responsibility, the government should focus on people’s environmentally responsible behaviors, improve the depth and breadth of publicity on ecological and environmental issues, bring publicity closer to the life of residents and tourists, and strengthen their attention to ecological and environmental protection. Establishing a dual tourism environment concept of ecotourism resources and environmental protection in the whole society.

8.Research limitations and prospects

Although this study has obtained some important conclusions and enlightenments, there are still some limitations. There are many factors affecting the environmentally responsible behaviors of residents and tourists. The main factors explored in this study cannot fully explain the information, there is a certain incompleteness, and long-term follow-up research should be carried out in the future. Expanding the research perspective and analyzing the characteristics of the impact of ecotourism on the environment at different stages of development, exploring the influence mechanism of various factors on environmentally responsible behaviors, and forming a comprehensive theoretical framework. This research adopts the survey research method of data collection. The data collection tool is the questionnaire filled out by the respondents. Whether respondents based their responses on reality can lead to deviations in study results. Future studies can combine mathematical statistics and quantitative analysis to arrive at more valuable conclusions.

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The Ultimate Guide to Ecotourism in Hawaii

By Hannah Poaros-McDermott .

For sun, sea, and sand adventures, the islands of Hawaii remain a popular choice for travellers. But being a popular destination isn’t always a good thing. It brings more people, more development, and more destruction of fragile ecosystems and natural resources. So it’s bittersweet. Because the more we visit the Hawaiian Islands, the more we actually threaten what we love about them—their rugged, picturesque scenery and vibrant wildlife. That's where ecotourism comes in. Ecotourism aims to protect natural environments and minimize the negative impacts of travel. 

Malama ‘Aina , which means to care for the land, is a deeply rooted value in Hawaii culture and dictates how Hawaiians live. Creating a harmonious relationship with the land is crucial. As tourists to Hawaii, we should share this value. And supporting ecotourism initiatives is the perfect place to start—because this isolated archipelago is too damn beautiful for us to do anything other than look after it.

Hawaii Ecotourism Association

The Hawaii Ecotourism Association was founded over 15 years ago (with origins as far back as 1994).

Though the non-profit organization started with a streamlined ecotourism focus, they recently rebranded to advocate for all sustainable and responsible tourism practices, not just those relating to nature. In 2019, they changed their name to the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii (STAH) and became recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

The STAH's current mission statement is, “to protect Hawaii’s unique natural environment and host culture through the promotion of responsible travel and educational programs relating to residents, businesses and visitors.”

One example of how they achieve this goal is by running the state’s sustainable tourism certification program. The program allows businesses—specifically guided tour and activity operators—to register as ecotourism/sustainable tourism providers. To be approved for this status, businesses must demonstrate their commitment to eco-friendly practices. Required actions include: Posting a sustainability commitment statement on their website, advertising and marketing responsible travel, contributing to conservation efforts, supporting local communities, and following local permits.

You can find these certified companies on the STAH website. There is a travel planner tool where you can search by island and activity. An excellent resource! Find tour companies that offer everything from snorkelling adventures to kayaking excursions to helicopter rides.

How Can I Visit Hawaii Ethically?

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of travelling to a new place, especially if it's somewhere as dreamy as Hawaii. But before you start making your must-do list of sunset spots, cocktail bars, and sandy beaches, take a step back for a second.

We should start by considering our general approach to travel. Because visiting Hawaii the right way is critical. And it isn't hard to do. We need to be mindful and let our respect for the local cultures, communities and wildlife drive our actions.

Here are some tips on how to travel responsibly.

• Apply reef-safe sunscreen and only reef-safe sunscreen. It protects you and protects the planet. Other sunscreens include dangerous chemicals and ingredients. These chemicals can kill coral reefs, poison fish, and do all-round catastrophic damage to the ocean’s health. Hawaiians banned these products, and we should follow their lead.
• Don’t touch the wildlife. Sea turtles often rest on Hawaiian beaches, but that doesn’t mean they’re inviting us in for a handshake. Touching sea turtles (and any marine life, for that matter) is extremely harmful because it exposes them to bacteria and makes them vulnerable to disease. The Hawaiian Sea Turtle, as well as the Hawaiian Monk Seal, is one of 400 threatened and endangered species in Hawaii. If we want these species to survive, we better stick to admiring them from a distance.
• Pick up your trash (and other trash, too). Nobody likes to see the sand littered with cigarette butts or the ocean dotted with plastic bottles. And while we, as individuals, can’t eradicate all the garbage in the world, we can make an effort to reduce further creation of rubbish . An easy way to do this is to bring reusable bottles, bags, and utensils, so you can refrain from buying one-use items. If you see trash lying around, pick it up (even if it’s not yours). It's a small act, but it does make a difference.
• Pack out what you pack in; stay on the trail. With 8 National Parks, 51 state parks, and a collection of nature reserves to explore, hikers will be excited to get their boots out. Lush valleys, volcanic craters, dramatic sea cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, majestic mountains—the Hawaiian landscape is incredible and ever-changing. You can help keep it that way by cleaning up after yourself, packing out what you pack in, and staying on the trail. Not following these two actions hinders conservation efforts. If we don't follow these, we inadvertently damage delicate terrain and harm re-introduced native plants.
• Follow the local customs and traditions. And then go a step further and seek out authentic cultural experiences. Visit places that highlight Hawaii’s history, like museums or ancient sites. Swap out a typical tourist Lu’au dinner for a local workshop or class instead.
• Visit local businesses. Dining at family-owned restaurants and shopping from local artisans (look for native Hawaiian ones) is a great way to ensure that the community benefits from your visit. Many small, local businesses have suffered during the pandemic, and they need our support. If you want to buy a souvenir, opt for unique and hand-made rather than cheap and store-bought. Find fresh produce at farmers' markets and local farms—everything from coffee beans to fresh macadamia nuts to chocolate!
• Support certified eco-friendly tour operators. Many certified sustainable tour operators donate part of their profits or participate in conservation efforts, which is another reason to support them. For example, Unique Maui Tours donate one tree planting for each tour they conduct, and Skyline Eco-Adventures has pledged to give at least 1% of sales back to the planet. 

Top Eco Activities in Hawaii

Here’s our round-up of unmissable nature-kind activities. Chances are you’ll fly into Oahu, but you don't have to stay there for your entire trip. Each island has its own character; why not hop from one to another? If you want to get off-the-beaten-path, head to rural Molokai—the least visited island, often nicknamed the “real” Hawaii.

• Journey under the sea on one of Atlantis Adventures battery-powered, environmentally safe submarines
• Discover Hawaiian native plants at the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
• Go kayaking with Kailua Beach Adventures , and paddle to the picturesque Mokulua islands
• Spend a day exploring Oahu’s North Shore on an eco-tour with Hoku Hawaii Tours
• Let Valley Isle Excursions drive you along the awe-inspiring road to Hana
• View the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, home to the shield volcano Haleakala
• Learn the importance of caring for our natural world with Maui Ocean Center ’s Ocean Aloha conservation program 
• Watch for humpback whales on a whale watching tour with Pacific Whale Foundation
• See Waimea Canyon, a fascinating geological masterpiece and Hawaii’s answer to the Grand Canyon
• Cruise the incredible Napali Coast with Holo Holo Charters , keeping your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins
• Go off-road on an ATV tour at historic Kipu Ranch and learn about the area's ecology 

The Big Island of Hawaii

• Hike through volcanic terrain, lava fields, and rainforest at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea volcano
• Spend an evening watching the stars and spotting constellations, satellites, and the moon at Mauna Kea
• Explore the national historic parks and sites; see the birthplace of King Kamehameha, remains of ancient fishing villages, and petroglyphs
• Make a positive environmental impact when you embark on one of Hawaiian Legacy Tours ' tree planting excursions
• Conduct a self-guided tour of Kona's coffee farms for your caffeine fix
• Spend time soaking up the sun on one of the stunning untouched beaches, like three-mile-long Papohaku Beach
• Walk past rare Hawaiian plants at Kamakou Preserve, situated on the slopes of the Molokai's highest mountain
• Visit Purdy’s Macadamia Nut Farm and taste freshly roasted organic macadamia nuts or macadamia honey
• Wander through rare dryland native forest at Kanepu’u Preserve (which is protected by the Nature Conservancy) 
• See impressive rock formations, large boulders and the dry, red Mars-like landscape of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)

What Kind of Ecotourism Jobs Are in Hawaii?

To be honest, living on an island sounds like paradise. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to a literal postcard-worthy palm-tree-lined view every day? 

If you're lucky enough to already live in Hawaii, then you might want to think about getting a job in ecotourism. As per the International Ecotourism Society , ecotourism must empower local communities, create employment opportunities, and provide them with financial benefits. With that being said, these employment opportunities are generally grounded in conservation. Look for vacancies (if you’re legally allowed to work in Hawaii, of course) at certified scuba dive companies or nature tour operators, national or state parks, botanical gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, and eco-friendly accommodations.

An alternative to paid work is short-term volunteering assignments! Holidaymakers can also participate in these experiences—it's the ideal way to give back. You could join a beach clean-up or native tree planting. Have a look at Tourism Hawaii’s comprehensive list of volunteering opportunities, events, and programs for more information. 

What are the best Eco-friendly Hostels or Hotels in Hawaii?

Typical eco-lodges, like ones found in Belize or Costa Rica, are not as common in Hawaii. When searching for accommodation, especially in the more built-up places like Honolulu, most paths will lead you to large resorts and chain hotels. Search a little longer, and you'll discover guesthouses, hostels, and retreat centres.

What is encouraging is that many hotels in Hawaii have now implemented “green” policies. So if you find yourself in a busy high-rise hotel, take solace in the thought that the hotel is doing something good for the environment (however little that may be). While they aren't ecotourism providers, most are working to reduce their environmental impact. They may have introduced energy or water-saving practices, be operating an ocean-friendly restaurant, or reducing their food waste. Look for the Hawaii Green Business logo or the Tripadvisor Green badge when booking a hotel.

Eco-friendly Retreats and Yoga Centers in Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii

Below are some recommendations for accommodation in unspoiled pockets of Hawaii.

Maui Eco Retreat —a rustic, off-the-grid property in Maui that runs on solar power and encourages guests to deepen their connection with nature. When the retreat re-opened (after being shut during the pandemic), they pledged to become “a refuge for the Responsible Traveler.” The property has an agroforestry garden, vegetable garden, and fruit orchard. You can look forward to yummy sustainably sourced food and yoga classes.

Hawaii Island Retreat —situated on the North Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, this elegant retreat center is a Tripadvisor Green Leader that focuses on sustainability. They believe that we should live “in balance with the earth.” The property includes 50 acres of sacred land, a private cove, an organic garden, farm-to-table food, a solar-heated swimming pool, and wellness services. A peaceful place where you can appreciate the magic of the earth. 

Pu’u O Hoku Ranch —this farm, ranch and retreat centre in Maui is working to restore and preserve the land around them so future generations can maintain a sustainable lifestyle. Their conservation pledge also includes growing endangered and native plants. There is no wifi and no distractions—aside from the beautiful scenery, of course. 

Kirpal Meditation and Ecological Center —this off-the-grid, ecological center on the Big Island of Hawaii provides guests with a spiritual experience, inviting them to attend meditation and yoga classes. The property was designed to fit in with its natural surroundings. Cabins have been thoughtfully hand-built, rain provides drinking water (purified), and solar power generates electricity. 

Hawaii Volcano House —sitting right in the iconic Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is this historic property and campground. With several green initiatives, stunning views, and a unique location, this will be an unforgettable eco-friendly overnight stay.

How Can Wakeful Travel Support Me In My Travels to Hawaii?

Check out our blog for more sustainable travel content . We have a plethora of advice on everything for your trip, from on-the-road yoga poses to travel journal writing prompts . Our articles also take a deep dive into conscious travel , mindfulness and psychedelics .

One thing you should remember to pack before you leave home is your Mindful Travel Journal . Use it to note down your favourite eco experiences, including where you stayed and what tours or activities you did. Take a quiet moment and put pen to paper. Writing, doodling, colouring, drawing—no matter what you decide to do in your journal, the process will be therapeutic and remind you to stay present.

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Paradise Found: 14 Eco-Parks In Malaysia You Never Knew Were There

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Since the lockdown began in Malaysia last March, how many of us find ourselves yearning to go back to Mother Nature? A lot of us had to make do, only limited to buying indoor plants with the hopes that these new green additions bring the essence of nature into our limited house-scapes.  

Somehow, these don’t really scratch that proverbial itch, as nothing beats being in nature itself.  

And no, there won’t be a need for international travel. Right in our backyard are these 14 national treasures that’ll have you planning your next eco-trip faster than you can add hiking boots to cart.

Better yet, each location flaunts its own undisturbed flora and fauna, and the intention to keep it that way. Multiple efforts are taken to mitigate adverse effects such as deliberate emissions and lucrative poaching activities; and in some of these spots, it seems to be working.  

The Royal Belum, Perak

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At 130 million years old, Perak’s Royal Belum is the oldest rainforest in the world. Yes, older even than the “Lungs of the Earth” Amazon. From Kuala Lumpur , it will take about five hours’ travel. Once you’re there, a boat departing from the Pulau Banding Jetty will take you to the resorts.  

Boat cruises will take you on an adventure of a lifetime, with sightings of elusive creatures such as Malaysian tigers, Sumatran rhinos, and white-handed gibbons. Be on the lookout for the largest flower in the world, rafflesias — you can’t miss it — when heading into the forest for a jungle trekking session.

Birdwatchers will be happy to hear that it’s said that the Royal Belum is the only place in the country where you can spot all of the hornbill species. Truly an all-rounder, this is also the perfect location to please adept anglers. Situated within the state park, Lake Temenggor is a manmade lake that hosts a variety of freshwater fish such as the kelah , toman , and baung .  

Mossy Forest, Pahang

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Even international tourists seem to revel in the beauty that is the Mossy Forest. So much so that it’s ranked to be one of the most Instagram-able forests in the world ! When you find yourself dusting off the crumbs from your hi-tea at the Sungei Palas Tea Garden and looking for the next tourist spot to check out, give the Mossy Forest boardwalk (which is only 5 kilometres away) a shot.  

This unique biotope, a result of low-level clouds shrouding the forest with omnipresent mist and moisture, is home to moss, ferns, the pitcher plant, and orchids. It’s practically a botanist’s paradise up here, with 600 species of orchid spread over multiple layers of altitude. And once you’re up there, get ready for a sprawling view that will have you in a state of awe.  

Mount Mulu, Sarawak

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If you’re tired of checking out this breathtaking mountainscape from digital screens, or at the back of the RM100 note, then it’s time to get on a plane to Sarawak at the earliest convenience!  

Some level of explorations here comes with prerequisites, and a lot of those can be fixed with a quick appointment with professional guides. Once that’s settled, the Bornean treasure is all yours to discover.  

However, reaching the summit of Sarawak’s second-highest peak is no small feat: the climb takes four days and three nights, requiring both strength and stamina. The scenery will be completely worth the adventure though, and we’re talking about stunning views from 2,377 metres above sea level.  

Aside from the unmistakable Pinnacles , the park has four show caves that have been chosen for their spectacular beauty. Of the four, one that would be a complete sin to miss is the Deer Cave. Should you be blessed with beautiful weather during your visit, you might get to witness a bat exodus: a showcase from the nocturnal free-tailed bats coming out of their slumber to hunt for their food, pouring out by the millions from the mouth of the cave.  

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah

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Longing for some fun in the sun? Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (TARP) has five sunny islands, so that should cover it.  

Islands Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug, and Mamutik are all very popular spots for their accessibility from Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu . Each island is a showcase of aquamarine waters, soft sand, and a diver’s fantasy.  

Gaya Island is home to the Marine Ecology Research Centre. Wholesome fun for the entire family is definitely in store here, with activities such as Adopt-a-Coral. Young ones can take a glimpse into a day in the life of a marine biologist, where the experts reveal the laborious research and work that goes into producing giant clams — one of which is classified as ‘locally extinct’ — and restoring them to the reefs.  

TARP is clearly a great way to start on your eco-warrior journey: by educating yourself on the environment whilst unwinding.

Danum Valley, Sabah

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Does this remind you of Temple Run ? This ancient tropical forest is the Danum Valley Conservation Area. It’s home to some unique creatures like the slow loris and the proboscis monkey. Here, explorers can go on excursions such as guided trails, bird-watching, and night drives. Even if you’re on vacay-mode, you can catch incredible sightings from the lodges’ grounds.  

If you’re into folklore and the mystical, you can visit an ancient Kadazandusun burial site, complete with ironwood coffins and ceramic spirit jars. One such ironwood coffin, placed at the highest ledge of a cliff, is reputed to be more than 250 years old. Though the remains have completely disintegrated, the coffin itself seems to be unmarred by harsh weather.  

Talang Satang National Park, Sarawak

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Sarawak’s very first marine protected area. It covers four islands: Talang-Talang Besar, Talang-Talang Kecil, Satang Besar, and Satang Kecil. Established for the conservation of the turtle species, this quadruplet is open for nature tourism. However, due to the fragile nature of the marine turtles here, only day trips are allowed for the Satang Islands. The Talang-Talang Islands, on the other hand, are only open for those involved in volunteer work in the area.  

If you do find yourself here, be sure to take it all in – the stunning white sand beach, the deep emerald hue of the waters, and the quietude.  

Maliau Basin, Sabah

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Sabah’s Lost World will stun you. Picture this: the basin is formed in an almost perfectly circular amphitheatre, 25 kilometres across. The only true lake you’ll find in Sabah state, Lake Linumunsut is located at the northern rim of the basin. It’s also a significant landmark of the lore of the indigenous people who live nearby. Legend says a dragon lives in the lake and holds back the body of water with its tail.  

Besides natural education, visitors are also offered recreational activities such as night drives, bird-watching, and jungle trekking. One caveat: you’ll need special access to even enter the reserve, so plan ahead.  

Mount Gading National Park, Sarawak

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Two hours drive away from Kuching , Mount Gading National Park is a must-visit for any naturalist. It’s home to the world’s largest flower, the rafflesia. The flower takes nine long months to mature, and can only last up to five days after that. If you’re planning to catch a sight of the giant blooms, you can actually call the park ahead of your trip. The park staff are familiar with the area and can feel out when a bloom is coming.  

However, if you lucked out on that, the park offers a jungle trekking adventure for both newbies and expert hikers. The shortest trail, called the Waterfall Trail, is beautiful and will take you through a series of seven waterfalls.  

Kilim Geoforest Park, Kedah

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Too busy to whip up a travel itinerary? Pay Kilim Geoforest Park a visit and pick a package with the Official Park Manager.  

The Kilim Mangrove Tour has offerings from a short two-hour tour of the geopark to a comprehensive four-hour one. The latter includes a serene river cruise, a tour of the floating fish farm, eagle-watching, plus a trip to both Bat Cave and Crocodile Cave.  

On top of that, visitors are allowed to select two other activities: a look at the Langsir Cave, a ride to the fossil island of Anak Tikus, swimming at a beach, or the light and breezy fish feeding option.  

Sepilok Sanctuary, Sabah

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A stop at this rehabilitation centre is absolutely necessary to complete your Sabahan tourist experience. It’s home for orphaned orangutans, and the staff here work hard to prepare them for rerelease into the nearby reserve.  

The process of teaching the orphans the necessary skills to survive in the wild is a long and expensive one. The sanctuary hopes to educate both tourists and locals alike of the importance of protecting their habitat. Witness feeding sessions here, and remember not to touch the creatures, or let them touch you as human diseases affect them.  

Semenggoh Reserve, Sarawak

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Similar to the Sepilok Sanctuary, Semenggoh Nature Reserve houses orphaned orangutans. For the best experience, head over to the reserve to catch their feeding time. Do keep in mind, however, that the orangutans here have partially readapted to the wilderness.  

When there’s plenty of food in the jungle, sometimes, these furry friends don’t return to the wildlife centre for their regular free meal, which is an extremely good sign. If such is the case, visitors can explore the gallery and learn more about the animals.  

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Sabah

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In the centre of the mangrove forests of Semawang is the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, where you can see Borneo’s indigenous proboscis monkeys. Located within an oil palm estate, it gives you the chance to observe these animals up close and personal.

The males of the species are marked by their big, dangling noses, reddish flat-top hairstyles, whitetails and markings, and pot bellies. The females, on the other hand, are significantly petite and have up-turned noses.

That’s not all that’s on the table when you visit this sanctuary: take a night tour for a chance to see wild boars, flying squirrels, fireflies, and crocodiles.

Lankayan Island, Sabah

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This is simply a diver’s paradise . The iridescent blue of the waters hosts faunas like the blacktip shark, giant clams, spider crabs, and rays. The island is also known for whale shark sightings, so if you’re a thrill-seeker, then this is the island for you.  

Green and hawksbill sea turtles nest here as well, and local operators work to secure the eggs in order to preserve the species. There are quite a number of the reptile here, that even a quick snorkel will have a sighting of the otherwise rare underwater beings.  

Niah National Park, Sarawak

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Archaeology fans, rejoice. Aside from the impressive sights, the park is known for a site where 40,000-year-old human remains were discovered, making it one of the oldest of such discoveries in Southeast Asia.  

Take a look back in time with iron-age cave paintings, dated as far as 1,200 years ago. The serene and tranquil Painted Cave is covered with wall paintings depicting the boat journey of the dead into the afterlife, with death-ships’ remnants on the floor. This macabre burial alternative gives us an idea of what traditional Bornean beliefs were like.  

Complete the experience with a stay in a longhouse, courtesy of the park management.  

Follow Zafigo on Instagram , Facebook , and Twitter . Sign up to our bi-weekly newsletter  and get your dose of travel tales, tips, updates, and inspiration to fuel your next adventure!  

A lover of cats, Najihah is always searching for cosy and quiet corners, even when travelling. This creature of habit will break routine only after Amy Santiago-level research, or else she'll happily watch Modern Family or Brooklyn Nine-Nine in the comforts of her home for the umpteenth time.

Staying Green: 9 Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Malaysian Hotels To Check Into

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Initiation and establishment of ecotourism development: Pandin Lake of San Pablo City and Tayak Hill of Rizal, Laguna, Philippines

• Published: 11 May 2020
• Volume 86 , pages 2573–2586, ( 2021 )

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• Bing Baltazar C. Brillo   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-9659-9147 1  

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The Philippines is blessed with an abundance of natural-cultural attractions with an excellent prospect for ecotourism development. Ecotourism has become a key national strategy in promoting local development. Despite this, the country continues to lag behind in ecotourism development as many of its tourism resources in the countryside remain untapped and undeveloped. This situation is exacerbated by the few scholarly discussions on how ecotourism development takes root in a local context. Against this backdrop, the study explores the specifics and dynamics of initiating and establishing ecotourism at the municipal level by looking into the experiences of two localities—Pandin Lake of San Pablo City and Tayak Hill of Rizal Municipality, both in Laguna province of the Philippines. Using a case study design, the article illustrates that in Pandin Lake, the ecotourism development is a locally driven and nongovernmental organisation-inspired initiative, and in Tayak Hill, it is a top-down driven endeavour where the efforts are mainly personal actions of the local executives. In Pandin Lake, the instigating conditions include: the awareness brought about by the save Sampaloc Lake movement; the constraint to aquaculture expansion; the scenic natural beauty of the small lake; and the lack of development-oriented actions by its administrative agencies. In Tayak Hill, the precipitating conditions comprise: the urgent need for instituting a promotional identity for the town and a catalyst for the local socioeconomic development; the advent of a new local government administration that is open to novel development strategies; and the discovery of Tayak Hill as a historical landmark.

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Brillo, B.B.C. Initiation and establishment of ecotourism development: Pandin Lake of San Pablo City and Tayak Hill of Rizal, Laguna, Philippines. GeoJournal 86 , 2573–2586 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10708-020-10216-1

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Navigating Taman Negara Pahang’s Treasure Troves for the Ultimate Eco Adventure

As the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia and also home to many forests and nature parks, there is just too much ground to cover throughout Pahang that makes it one of the best places to visit, especially if you consider yourself an ecotourist.

Did you know that Pahang is home to Taman Negara or the National Park, estimated to be over 130 million years old? In 2014, the park was submitted under the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us as we explore Taman Negara and the breathtaking Tanah Aina and gear up for your next eco adventure!

I wish the photo could carry with it the soft chirpings of the birds and the rhythmic sounds of the rippling water as we cruise down Sungai Tembeling.

“Do you know what Pahang stands for? Premier Adventure Holiday And Nature Getaway!” exclaimed the representative from Tourism Pahang.

I couldn’t agree more. As the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia and also home to many forests and nature parks, there is just too much ground to cover throughout the state that makes it one of the best places to visit, especially if you consider yourself an ecotourist. Fun fact: Taman Negara or the National Park, estimated to be over 130 million years old,  was submitted under the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

On the first week of October, I got the opportunity to visit Taman Negara and Tanah Aina in Pahang as part of Tourism Malaysia’s programme to promote eco attractions. As it has been too many years since I last visited Pahang, I was looking forward to this trip to go back to nature. I immediately agreed and packed my bag for the 3D2N trip.

Located just a mere 3 hours bus ride from Putrajaya to our stop in Jerantut, we were then taken to Danz Eco Resort, our accommodation for the night. To get to the resort, we needed to ride the 4 wheel drive from the bus stop. The journey was only a few minutes, but mind you, I must say that holding on to the rail of the roofless 4 wheel drive as it navigated the uneven terrain was already an adventure on its own!

"...opportunity to visit Taman Negara and Tanah Aina in Pahang as part of Tourism Malaysia’s programme to promote eco attractions."

Danz Eco Resort

The idea of camping does worry me a bit, but the resort offers many accommodation types including the Glamping style, which has gained traction especially amongst city folks like me who are just starting to venture into the ‘wilderness’ without having to part with certain essentials.

This was my home for the night. The pyramid-shaped lodgings have two floors that can accommodate up to 4 pax with a toilet in each unit, and we were told that rooms of this type were the latest additions to the resort. Other than these units, the resort has tents, capsule units as well as jungle rooms for you to choose from.

On top of the cosy rooms, what I loved most about Danz Eco Resort was the food and dining experience! We had breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner served under the iconic Tualang tree estimated to be over 300 years old, which made it one of the prominent features at the resort. The dining place was also next to the Sungai Tahan, so while feasting the delicious food, whose ingredients were mostly farmed or procured from the river, we were treated to a beautiful view of nature surrounding us.

Among the dishes that we had the privilege of trying were the Kijang Masak Kicap and Petai! Needless to say, the Ikan Patin Pais Tempoyak stole the show, that one of our teammates had finished 4 servings in one sitting! No wonder it is considered the resort’s specialty and highly demanded by the patrons here!

After we had our lunch, we prepared the food supply to be brought to Kampung Dedari, as part of Tourism Malaysia’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Along the journey from the resort to Kampung Dedari, we experienced Rapid Shooting, one of the exciting experiences that take you on a boat through a number of rapids where you will definitely get wet! 

Visiting the Orang Asli Bateq Settlement

Upon reaching Kampung Dedari, one of the two settlements of Orang Asli in Taman Negara, we were briefed on the Bateq community. It was an enriching session where we learned more about one of the cultures in multiracial and multicultural Malaysia. One of the amazing things we noted was that the Bateq community typically hunts for their own food in the woods. So we were delighted to see a demonstration of the sumpit or blowpipe, a weapon they use to track and trap game in the jungle. Before we leave, we distributed the food supply for the community with the hopes to help ease the burden of the Bateq community, especially during a challenging time like this.

At night we went on a Night Safari on the 4 wheel drive. Although we only spotted a few curious animals up close, the journey was one of a kind, as the 4 wheel drive carried us into the night in search of the reclusive nocturnal animals that are endemic to this part of the region.

Visiting the Kelah Sanctuary 

On the next day, we explored Taman Negara further on boats, and made our way to the Kelah Sanctuary. To the uniniatied, Kelah is one of the most sought after lake fishes, which can fetch up to RM200 per kg. The succulent taste is revered amongst anglers and lake fish enthusiasts and we were told that Kelah can only survive in very clean waters, which is probably why it is not as easy to procure. According to Dabang, our nature guide, because Kelah prefers clean waters, their existence can serve as an indication of how clean a lake is. There are an estimated over thousands of Kelah at the sanctuary and stringent rules such as allowing a limited number of licenses to fish there, help ensure their survival.

Hiking Lata Berkoh

Our journey on the boat continued further and we were taken hiking up Lata Berkoh. This trail is not too hard to navigate, and because it didn’t rain the night before, the dry ground made it easier to hike, even for an amateur like me. It was clear why visitors like to hike up Lata Berkoh, we were greeted with a pretty cool view soon after and stopped to snap some photos overlooking the stones and the picturesque waterfalls.

Balancing on the Canopy Walkway

Before we called it quits for the day, we were brought to the Canopy Walkway. Since the hiking was not an ordeal, I made a premature assumption that walking across the canopy would be easy, just like a walk in the park. Little did I know that the real workout was before we got to the canopy, as we had to head up over thousands of stairs to get up to the platform! After some pit stops in between, we finally made it to the top and the view was worth it! As the canopy was tied up and suspended in the air with the support of the strong trees, walking across the canopy was the closest to the feeling of walking on air, with the vantage point from 40 metres above ground.

After lunch, we bade farewell to Mr Rashdan and his staff, the people behind Danz Eco Resort who have shown us the perfect hospitality, a combination of great service and experience packages offered. Our bus took us on a one and a half hours’ journey to the other side of Pahang in Raub, the oft-mentioned Tanah Aina.

Tanah Aina Fahad

True to its reputation, Tanah Aina is the epitome of an oasis in the middle of the jungle. The clean and beautiful resort, surrounded by the thick and luscious jungle makes you feel like you’re a part of the only group that’s left in the world! We were informed that the water and streams surrounding the premises are also sourced from Class 1 river, the cleanest and freshest water source you can find. The following morning, we had the chance to bathe in the cool river after an exhausting but exhilarating hike around the resort as a reward. With the fresh water pumping out of the natural stones like jacuzzis, we each found a comfortable spot to relax our tired muscles and enjoy a dip with a view.

As the saying goes, “all good things come to an end”, so must our trip. Even though we parted with a heavy heart, we did come back feeling refreshed, and with plenty of memories to live by. Something we know for sure, the tour guide was right. Pahang does stand for ‘Premier Adventure Holiday And Nature Getaway’, and this certainly wouldn’t be our last.

Taman Negara

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Because We Care

The purpose of ecotourism with examples

 Posted on August 16, 2019 by Yonature

  8 Comments

Ecotourism is now a very common term for most travellers around the world. Travel agencies swear by it to promote green touristic activities and encourage tourists to book their holidays with them . However, in many cases, the concept of ecotourism has been used simply as a false front to make money rather than serve its real purpose.

What exactly is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is not a new concept. A new name at most, but conservation of natural resources through education and management has long preexisted. Back in the old days, our ancestors understood that they had to give nature time to reflourish when the level of resources dropped.

Today, the International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as the ‘responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education.’

Ecotourism thus is not only visiting natural places. It also involves travelling to these places by the best ways to prevent ecological damage and investing in the preservation of these areas. Ecotourism also improves the lives of the local populations (through entrance fees, souvenirs etc.) and brings important knowledge to the tourist. We then use the money that we get from the various ‘eco-activities’ to care for these fragile ecosystems.

The purpose of ecotourism

1. natural resource management.

As it is, ecotourism serves a very important purpose in resource management. It is one of the best ways to preserve and protect local resources which otherwise could disappear or get exploited.

Mountain Gorilla conservation

The conservation of mountain gorillas in Uganda exemplifies this scenario perfectly. Most of these primates live in the Virunga Mountains bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. A few also inhabit the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of Uganda.

Unfortunately, the number of mountain gorillas decreased significantly in the mid-1970s. Poachers hunted them, people destroyed their habitats and they got diseases .

At that time also, Dian Fossey, an American primatologist, was studying the mountain gorillas. She fought poachers and pioneered gorilla tourism in order to save these mammals. In 1985, she was murdered by poachers, but thanks to her dedication, proper ecotourism to protect the mountain gorillas started.

Today, the number escalated from 250 individuals in the wild to around 1000 animals.

Though a basic one-hour gorilla trek in the thick forest of Uganda can start as from $400 per person, it contributes massively to the conservation of these primates. The government also invests some of the money into developing the villages. Villagers themselves work as guides thus discouraging them from becoming poachers.

All in all, ecotourism helps locals and tourists invest in the conservation of the mountain gorillas.

2. Source of income for least developed countries

Poverty alleviation in costa rica.

Costa Rica, famous for its natural landscapes, is one of the most visited eco-tourism destinations in the world. And for good reason. National parks and reserves cover approximately 25% of the country where a plethora of plants and animals thrive. Two seas also border it adding to the lush forests. As a matter of fact, Costa Rica is the only tropical country in the world that has reversed deforestation.

In the past, Costa Rica mainly exported crops like banana and coffee to earn money. But since 1995, tourism has become the main pillar of the economy. On average, 1.7 million tourists visit the country every year, which represents 5% of the GDP. The direct and indirect jobs that emerged from ecotourism lowered the poverty levels of Costa Rica by 3%.

Thanks to the flourishing eco-tourism industry, the economy of Costa Rica has been rising steadily in the last 25 years.

Like Costa Rica, several countries and islands around the world rely on tourism to earn foreign currency.

3. Involvement of the local population

As it is, the most charming places in the world are often well hidden in remote places, often accessible to a few people only. The Amazon forest, for instance, one of the most visited places in South America, is a wonder to nature travellers. However, it is also huge. But, native tribes that inhabit the forest know the surroundings quite well.

Thus, with this idea of familiarity in mind, ecotourism boomed in many remote regions where indigenous communities live.

Generally, local tribes refuse help from outside despite having financial difficulties. But, with ecotourism, these nations can work based on their own terms. They serve as guides, hosts and build touristic infrastructures and souvenirs with their means. The harmony of natural preservation and satisfaction of locals is thus maintained.

4. Cultural awareness and respect

At the same time, ecotourism helps indigenous communities to continue with their traditions. It raises awareness of the different cultures and traditions that locals have. Indigenous communities share their foods, drinks, artisanal livelihoods and spiritual beliefs with tourists.

In Philippines for example, a few tribes like the Cordillera tribe, have preserved their authentic cultures as they live in harsh terrains. Ecotourism trips there is not only about the fascinating natural features, but also the typical way of life of locals. They have a particular way of dressing, dancing, eating and respecting nature.

Thus, by teaching foreigners about their traditions, they continue to perpetuate their cultures.

The traveler and ecotourism

As it is, ecotourism is not visiting a marine park on a speed boat that is spilling motor oil along the way. Nor partying on man-made islets that have destroyed the surrounding natural space.

Ecotourism enhances the knowledge of the traveller on the natural environment. In this way, he can preserve it and encourage others to do so. Most importantly, it is the bread and butter of many poor societies that also helps them maintain their local traditions.

References:

• WCS Uganda. Gorillas. [Online] Available at https://uganda.wcs.org/Wildlife/Gorillas.aspx [Accessed 08/07/2019]
• Kasalak, M.A. (2015). Dünya’da ekoturizm pazarı ve ekoturizm’in ülke gelirlerine katkıları. Journal of Recreation and Tourism Research.2 (2), ISSN: 2348-5321, pp. 20-26
• Vanegas Sr, M., Gartner, W. and Senauer, B., 2015. Tourism and poverty reduction: An economic sector analysis for Costa Rica and Nicaragua.  Tourism Economics ,  21 (1), pp.159-182.

 Category: Science      Tags: advantages of ecotourism , best places for ecotourism , concept of ecotourism , eco destinations , ecotourism , ecotourism and sustainable tourism , ecotourism in Nepal , ecotourism in Uganda , ecotourism scientific definition , green tourism , mountain gorilla preservation , principles of ecotourism , purpose ecotourism , responsible travel , types of ecotourism , Why choose ecotourism , why is ecotourism important

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A Nature Getaway Awaits at Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park

In the generally mountainous Nueva Vizcaya, there’s no shortage of attractions highlighting the beauty of nature. North of the province, at the municipality of Diadi, for instance, part of the 24,000-hectare Lower Magat Forest Reserve has been converted into an ecotourism destination. 

Called Lower Magat Eco-Tourism (LMET) Park, the piece of land was first acquired by the provincial government from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 1969 for preservation and later on, development into a nature park. 

Today, the spot is a sprawling 1,200-hectare of land that has a lagoon, camping grounds, swimming pools, cottages, recreational facilities, and trails for hiking and biking.

Park Features

Upon entry to the park, the park’s flora and fauna-rich surroundings are evident. 

The park’s hanging bridge offers views of lush greenery left and right, which leads guests to a heavily-forested area.

“There are a lot of varieties of trees here, but the most common are mahogany and teak,” says Mark Renzon Aradana, administration aide of LMET. “Both are hardwood.”

The park is also home to many of what Aradana calls mother trees. 

“These are trees with trunks that grow straight and branches that only grow at the very top,” he explains. “They are the biggest and oldest trees in the forest.”

At LMET, acacia and yakal are examples of this. 

Another hanging bridge within the park called Lambingan—called such a name because of its popularity as a date spot among couples—leads to a flower garden. 

Here, flowers of every kind bloom, including sunflowers and bougainvillea. 

An in-park zoo, meanwhile, houses hundreds of animal species. 

“There are domestic pigs, deers, guinea fowls, and monkeys,” says Aradana, who is also an Animal Science graduate. “There are snakes, too, including an 11-feet Burmese python that guests can touch and take pictures with.”

The zoo also provides shelter to a threatened species—the gray-faced buzzard.

“A local turned it over to us,” he shares. “It was injured so we took care of it here at LMET.”

When interacting with animals at the zoo, though, Aradana says they often warn guests to refrain from giving out food to prevent any untoward incident. 

Eco-adventures

Summer or the dry season is the best time to come to LMET, according to Aradana. During this time, when skies are clear and days are warm, guests can better enjoy the eco-adventures the park offers. 

At the park’s lake, guests can go boat riding (Php100 per hour). Pre-pandemic, up to four people are allowed on the boat. For the safety of the guests, though, the current arrangement permits only two visitors per boat.

Accessible through the park’s hanging bridge, there are three eco-trails in the park suitable for trekking, two of which are short distances that are manageable even for beginners. The third eco-trail, the only long-distance trail among the three, is currently under renovation. 

The same trails are paths that guests can take for mountain biking. 

After a full day of sightseeing and trying out all park activities, guests can end the day camping (Php50 per night on a niine square-meter space). Guests must bring their own tents at the campsite, though, as there are none available for rent at the park. Only two guests are allowed in each tent, too. 

While at the campsite, guests can most likely witness an activity called kanyawan . It’s an Ilocano word that means “to feast.”

“It’s a celebration of the gods,” Aradana says. “The Igorot begin with a prayer, perform a ritual around a bonfire setup, and proceed to slaughter domestic animals to be cooked and consumed later on.”

Trained Guides

No matter what activities the guests choose to try, though, guides are always present. 

“The guides here are trained via the Department of Tourism (DOT),” Aradana adds. 

At the moment, 11 guides are already DOT-accredited. Four more are still processing their accreditation. 

Accommodations

Staying overnight at Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park is possible. They have accommodations within the park, the inspiration for some of which are the tribes living in the region. 

For instance, there are Isinay-inspired houses (Php1,000 overnight for five guests). The Isinay tribe is a small group primarily living in parts of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino. 

On a nearby hill, nestled within trees, are traditional huts reminiscent of Ifugao houses (Php500 overnight for 5 guests). 

More conventional rooms are available at the two-story Yakal Hall (Php3,000 overnight for three to five guests). It’s spacious rooms have a small veranda at the back.

There are other cottages and rooms within the park—named after trees—that are equally affordable: the Governor’s Cottage and PEO’s Cottage (Php1,000 overnight for five guests), Mahogany Hall (Php2,000 overnight for five to seven guests), and log cabins at the Narra Hall (Php10,000 overnight for 10 guests). 

For events like weddings, the park’s pavilion or Acacia Hall (Php500 per hour; Php2,500 per day) is also available. 

Food is available at the park’s canteen, where guests can try local cuisine while eating at an open-air hut.

Aradana says guests can reserve accommodations ahead of time to ensure that they have a room to stay in while at the park. 

“We accept reservations on our official Facebook and Instagram pages,” Aradana says. “They can simply search for Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Official on social media and send a message.”

Leave no trace

Picking flowers or plants is prohibited. “We have what we call LNT,” Aradana says. “Anywhere inside the park, guests should abide by a ‘Leave No Trace’ policy.”

Cutting trees in the area is not allowed, too. DENR’s Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) monitors the trees thriving or propagated for reforestation purposes. 

Just like most destinations in the past year or two, Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Parks had to close. 

“There was a time when, unfortunately, some employees tested positive so we had to stop operations,” Aradanas says. “Now, we’ve reopened to the public.” 

All of its staff have since been fully vaccinated and are ensuring the park’s smooth operations for 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. 

Apart from an entrance fee (Php50) which allows access to most parts of the park, and a parking fee (Php25) if visiting by car, park staff are requiring a vaccination card, and for health and safety protocols like social distancing, wearing of face masks, and hand sanitizing are followed. 

Travel safely!

All tourist destinations in Nueva Vizcaya have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel , Apple Store, or Google Playstore.

Ecotourism: Strategies for Sustainable Travel in 2024 and Beyond

Dr. Nick Becker, a pioneering sustainability expert and serial entrepreneur, seamlessly blends green technology and business acumen. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, he has co-founded groundbreaking startups and been featured on Forbes' "30 Under 30". His TEDx talk catalyzes tech-driven sustainability. Dr. Becker's passion for a greener future drives global change.

Introduction

Dr. Nick Becker is a visionary sustainability expert and seasoned serial entrepreneur, adept at harmonizing the realms of green technology and astute business acumen.

With a distinguished Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Dr. Becker has embarked on an extraordinary journey, co-founding trailblazing startups that are catalysts for transformation. His achievements have garnered industry recognition, earning him a coveted spot on Forbes' prestigious "30 Under 30" list.

A captivating orator, Dr. Becker's TEDx talk serves as a powerful catalyst, igniting a wave of tech-driven sustainability. His fervent commitment to ushering in a greener future has a profound impact on global change.

Ecotourism blends the excitement of exploring natural wonders with the responsibility of preserving them. This article aims to clearly understand how ecotourism can protect the environment, benefit local communities, and offer an enjoyable travel experience.

It delves into practical ecotourism strategies, explores their impact on destinations, and highlights the significance of making responsible travel choices.

Key Takeaways

• Ecotourism aims to minimize ecological impact, promote sustainable development, and emphasize conservation, community support, and environmental education.
• Ecotourism’s success depends on balancing economic growth with environmental protection, creating sustainable employment opportunities for local communities, and conserving natural resources.
• Innovative ecotourism projects and community-based initiatives worldwide demonstrate successful models of sustainable tourism, highlighting the importance of responsible travel, local engagement, and international support from organizations.

Understanding Ecotourism: A Modern Approach to Travel

Ecotourism is not just a passing trend in the travel industry but a responsible form of tourism that promotes conservation efforts that benefit local communities and educate people about preserving the environment and cultural heritage.

It establishes a vital connection between the desire to explore nature and the urgent need to protect it. By emphasizing sustainable development and reducing environmental impact, this deliberate approach to travel has set itself apart from other forms of tourism.

Watch this video by Dr. Hayley Stainton to learn more:

Ecotourism, endorsed by organizations such as The International Ecotourism Society and The World Tourism Organization, is a concept that emphasizes eco-friendly exploration .

It involves a commitment by travelers to reduce their ecological footprint while actively participating in activities designed to increase awareness of environmental protection and cultural values.

Destinations that cater specifically to ecotourists offer opportunities to experience the Earth’s magnificent natural beauty while also promoting responsible maintenance practices.

From unspoiled regions like those found in Amazonia to breathtaking vistas like those offered by the Himalayan peaks, ecotourism destinations provide a sanctuary where travelers can appreciate the planet’s splendor while also helping to preserve it.

The Core of Ecotourism: Conservation, Community, and Education

Ecotourism is based on three fundamental principles: preserving natural resources, supporting local communities, and educating people about ecological matters.

The main objective of conservation efforts is to protect the natural environments within national parks and other natural areas so that they can be enjoyed by future generations.

Ecotourism plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance necessary for the health and well-being of our planet.

Sustainable tourism is the foundation of ecotourism as it acknowledges the crucial role played by local communities. It respects their cultural heritage and provides opportunities for their development by adopting practices that promote their environment’s sustainability and improve their quality of life.

Every genuine ecotourism experience involves an educational component that fosters environmental consciousness among tourists. This deepens their appreciation for nature beyond simply what they see or do at various destinations.

Eco-Friendly Practices in Action

Eco-tourism involves a range of environmentally friendly practices, which include:

• Opting for sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric vehicles or rail systems.
• Participating in eco-tourism activities that aim to have minimal impact on the environment.
• Traveling slowly , consciously choosing destinations to connect with instead of rushing through many cities.
• Choosing accommodations that utilize renewable energy sources, have efficient waste management systems in place, and offer locally sourced food options.

These strategies are more than words; they are actively implemented to support conservation efforts essential to preserving the natural landscapes we cherish. These measures help ensure that our accommodations have a minimal ecological impact and are in harmony with the surrounding environment.

Ecotourism involves activities that connect visitors with nature while promoting responsible traveling habits. These activities could include trekking through wilderness areas, observing local wildlife species, or exploring marine environments.

Additionally, ecotourism initiatives typically integrate indigenous culture and history, providing educational experiences for visitors. To maintain a balance between economic gains for local communities and environmental preservation, ecotourism sites carefully regulate tourist numbers and promote off-season visits.

The Impact of Ecotourism on Local Economies

Ecotourism not only helps with environmental conservation but also provides economic benefits to local communities. By creating job opportunities such as positions for park rangers and cultural performers, ecotourism brings a steady flow of revenue into the economies of these areas, often transforming them into hubs of economic development.

In countries like Costa Rica, nature-based tourism has a significant impact on the national GDP, demonstrating how eco-friendly travel can coexist with generating economic opportunities and preserving natural habitats.

When travelers choose to spend their money on locally sourced goods and cuisine, they play a vital role in reducing ecological footprints while also promoting community prosperity.

The support given to local communities grows when tourists explore off-the-beaten-path adventures or participate in grassroots tourist initiatives that are supported by the residents.

Such initiatives have a positive financial impact on local communities, ensuring that their attractiveness as ecotourism destinations brings real progress and benefits to those who live there.

Balancing Economic Benefits with Environmental Protection

Genuine sustainable development in ecotourism requires a delicate balance between generating economic benefits and preserving nature. This balance involves supporting local businesses by ensuring fair wages and working conditions, investing in community infrastructure, and preserving cultural heritage.

These measures not only benefit conservation efforts but also help to boost the local economy and improve the well-being of those who reside in ecotourism destinations.

Choosing tour operators that hire local guides and provide authentic experiences – such as homestays with local families – can help boost the economic growth of the community while preserving the cultural integrity of the destination.

For instance, Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee is an excellent example of a direct financial contribution that combines environmental protection with economic benefits, ensuring that the experiences of travelers benefit both conservation efforts and the local people in equal measure.

Global Leaders in Ecotourism

There are a few nations that have become leaders in ecotourism by implementing standards for wildlife protection and sustainable tourism practices. These countries, such as Costa Rica, Chile, and Norway, have shown a strong commitment to these principles and have integrated them into their national identity.

They not only conserve their environment but also prioritize the well-being of their people. For travelers seeking genuine and responsible experiences, these countries have become top destinations for ecotourism.

Iceland and the Galapagos Islands are known as the best examples of ecotourism, with Iceland’s unspoiled landscapes and the Galapagos Islands’ unparalleled biodiversity attracting visitors from around the world.

The success stories of these destinations, as well as Chile’s Huilo Huilo and Chiloé Island, demonstrate the importance of balancing economic benefits with environmental conservation. These places are ideal destinations for anyone looking to explore nature while also supporting conservation efforts.

Case Study: Costa Rica’s Transformation

Costa Rica is a great example of how environmental preservation and sustainable development can go hand-in-hand. The Osa Peninsula, known for its diverse wildlife, including jaguars and macaws, is at the heart of this transition toward sustainable ecotourism.

Visitors can stay in eco-conscious accommodations and experience the beauty of the natural surroundings. This not only attracts millions of visitors each year but also highlights Costa Rica’s dedication to living in harmony with the environment.

Source: Lonely Planet

Costa Rica has effectively increased its forest coverage, which is a testament to its successful strategies for environmental conservation. The country’s strong commitment to sustainable ecotourism is a significant part of its national identity and positions it as a leader in offering ecological tourism opportunities.

This success serves as proof that tourism models focused on nature conservation are feasible and have substantial advantages.

Galapagos Islands: A Unique Ecosystem Under Careful Management

The Galapagos Islands were the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site and are home to a unique ecosystem that is carefully protected. These islands played a key role in Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and are safeguarded by Ecuadorian law to preserve their distinct wildlife and habitats.

To maintain their pristine condition, the islands have several regulations in place, including zoning laws, limited visitor numbers, and specific routes for tourism vessels. Tour operators in the Galapagos Islands must prioritize eco-friendly practices, not as an option but as a necessity.

This includes strategies to conserve water and energy, recycling programs, and providing fair wages and training opportunities for local staff.  Tourists are required to pay a conservation fee, which, along with government support, helps fund environmental preservation projects that protect the unique native species of the islands, such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas.

Challenges and Controversies in Ecotourism

Although ecotourism aims to promote sustainable travel and conservation, it has its own set of problems and controversies. The increasing popularity of this form of tourism may unintentionally cause the destruction of forests, the decline in habitat quality, and subtle behavioral changes among wildlife, which can degrade soil health and vegetation.

Such disturbances can force animals out of their habitats and disrupt complex natural systems, throwing them off balance. Local communities also face several adverse effects from ecotourism, including:

• Outsiders often benefit financially at the expense of locals, leading to economic sidelining and erosion of cultural heritage within these communities.
• An increase in human activity within wild areas poses health risks and escalates the chances for conflicts between humans and animals.
• Pollution entering delicate ecosystems is a serious threat that needs to be considered.
• Trading souvenirs derived from wildlife perpetuates harm on already vulnerable environmental zones.

Preventing the Pitfalls of Ecotourism

To ensure ecotourism is sustainable, it is crucial to follow a comprehensive approach that includes certification programs, community engagement, and enforcement measures. For ecotourism to be truly sustainable in terms of cultural and social aspects, it must respect local customs and people.

This can be achieved by ensuring that they are well-informed and actively involved as key players. Tour operators should focus on protecting at-risk communities while also providing equitable employment opportunities to the local populace to ensure their operations provide substantial benefits.

Tourists also have a significant role to play, especially in voluntourism. It is important that they ensure these initiatives ethically manage their affairs to protect children and other vulnerable groups from harm. In addition, reducing travel’s environmental footprint is a critical consideration.

Travelers are urged to follow basic  sustainable travel tips  and select fewer flights or direct journeys whenever possible in an effort to minimize carbon emissions and reflect responsible travel ethics.

Participating in Ecotourism: How You Can Make a Difference

As conscious travelers, we have the power to create a positive impact by choosing destinations and activities that align with ecotourism values. By staying at eco-friendly accommodations, using sustainable modes of transportation, and reducing our waste, we can help protect the environment while enjoying our travels. 

Making donations to local environmental organizations or actively participating in conservation initiatives can also enrich our travel experiences.

By engaging thoughtfully with each place we visit, we can enjoy fulfilling journeys that align with ecotourism principles while contributing to the protection of our planet’s natural beauty and biodiversity for generations to come.

Selecting Responsible Tour Operators

When choosing to travel, opting for tour operators who prioritize sustainable tourism practices is crucial to ensure that our explorations are aligned with ethical and environmental standards.

A responsible tour operator will be transparent about their sustainability efforts and initiatives, such as the ones supported by Royal Galapagos, which includes reducing plastic consumption and supporting conservation projects.

They will also be committed to minimizing their ecological footprint through responsible practices, including carbon offset programs.

In addition, they will prioritize positively impacting the local environment and its inhabitants. A tour operator that values wildlife preservation will prioritize promoting the observation of animals in their natural habitats without direct interaction.

Opting for companies that prioritize these values not only helps protect ecotourism destinations but also supports environmental consciousness and protective measures for nature.

Volunteering and Supporting Local Initiatives

Participating in local initiatives as a volunteer can make travel experiences more exciting while promoting community and environmental health. Engaging with communities in this way has a positive influence on those involved and creates unforgettable moments.

Travelers who volunteer their time gain deep immersion into local traditions, which helps with personal growth and a better understanding of global challenges.

Contributing through international volunteer work equips participants with essential life skills such as flexibility, communication abilities, and cooperative working proficiency.

Successful collaborations, like the one between the Royal Galapagos and the Galapagos Conservation Trust, demonstrate that volunteering contributes to funding conservation efforts.

These partnerships support sustainable progress in development projects that benefit both nature preservation efforts and elevate living standards for inhabitants within these communities.

Innovative Ecotourism Projects Around the World

The ecotourism industry has brought about innovative projects that are transforming the landscape of sustainable travel.

These pioneering initiatives offer a glimpse into the different ways ecotourism can be manifested, from special charter expeditions in the Galapagos Islands that focus on conservation and education to Slovenia’s green labeling system for accommodations and tourism services.

By collaborating with conservation groups or NGOs, ecotourism projects gain legitimacy and sustainability, ensuring that they create not only unique travel experiences but also contribute positively to the environment and local communities.

One such initiative is the partnership between Steppes Travel and the Galapagos Conservation Trust. Travelers aboard the Natural Paradise yacht can contribute directly to the preservation of the ecosystem while engaging with local conservation projects and experts.

These innovative ecotourism projects are essential in promoting sustainable tourism, as they provide models of how tourism can coexist with and even benefit conservation efforts. They set an example for ecotourism destinations worldwide.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and Their Role in Conservation

Serving as beacons for preservation, wildlife sanctuaries safeguard natural ecosystems and the species within them while enabling environmentally considerate wildlife encounters. Locations such as:

• Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Borneo’s Rainforest provides opportunities for tourists to witness animals in their own environments while bolstering conservation work through eco-tourism pursuits. Sanctuaries include:
• Yellowstone National Park in the USA
• Raja Ampat in Indonesia demonstrates how ecotourism can aid in preserving various species and afford visitors remarkable experiences.

Source: Brittanica

In remote locations such as Antarctica or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, tourism is strictly regulated to minimize the environmental impact and maximize the funds directed towards conservation efforts.

In destinations like Madagascar and Svalbard, Norway, eco-friendly accommodations allow visitors to have close encounters with local wildlife and contribute to the economic stability of the area.

These protected areas are crucial for preserving biodiversity by providing responsible ways to experience nature, which educates travelers on the importance of conserving our natural habitats.

Community-Based Ecotourism Success Stories

Narratives from successful community-driven ecotourism initiatives highlight the benefits in terms of economic growth, heritage conservation, and environmental protection. The following are some examples:

• In Lorestan province, Iran, local communities have collaborated with researchers and policymakers to create a model for sustainable tourism. This collaboration has resulted in an enhancement of local capacity and improvements such as available rental accommodations and establishments along roads.
• Kichwa Ecolodge in Ecuador is another noteworthy example where active participation by the local community ensures they both oversee and profit from the lodge, including its adjacent natural resources.
• Auroville in India represents another distinct example dedicated to advancing eco-friendly lifestyles while preserving culture and nature.
• Efforts undertaken within Chilean locales and Indonesia’s Gunung Leuser National Park also exemplify how communal involvement can effectively manage cultural heritage sites and natural areas.

These instances highlight the importance of engaging locals when aiming for ecotourism achievements. Adhering to the principles set out by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards ensures these ventures contribute positively towards socioeconomic stability, ongoing cultural vitality, and environmental integrity.

By championing development tied with empowerment among their ranks, the outcomes highlight transformations wherein indigenous populations, together with other residents, can utilize their own unique cultural elements coupled with naturally occurring spaces to foster leading destinations focused on ecology.

These destinations simultaneously yield financial gains without compromising their ancestral legacy or ecosystems.

The Role of International Organizations in Promoting Ecotourism

International organizations, particularly the United Nations World Tourism Organization, play a crucial role in promoting ecotourism around the world by taking actions such as:

• Developing tourism-related policies
• Implementing standards similar to Costa Rica’s Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST)
• Guiding countries and businesses towards adopting sustainable practices and standards
• Supporting the creation of destinations dedicated to ecotourism
• Integrating conservation principles into broader global tourism agendas
•  Sharing successful approaches with the global ecotourism community

Their role is essential in encouraging and maintaining eco-friendly tourism practices worldwide.

Similarly, Ecotourism Kenya plays a significant role in advocating for eco-responsible travel behaviors that can be replicated in various areas.

Through its efforts to provide guidance, support initiatives, and accredit ecological tourism ventures, Ecotourism Kenya promotes environmental preservation while improving the quality of life of local communities. This enhances the regional significance and global impact of ecological tourism benefits.

As we watch the sunset on our ecotourism exploration, we are reminded of the tremendous impact that sustainable travel can have on our planet and its inhabitants.

Ecotourism offers a way for us to be more conscious and responsible as we experience the world. We can become stewards of the Earth’s future by preserving natural habitats and wildlife, empowering local communities economically, and educating travelers.

Let this journey through ecotourism’s principles, practices, and possibilities inspire you to consider how your travel choices can contribute to the greater good. Each trip can be a step toward a more sustainable and equitable world with the right approach.

Tourism can be a force for positive change, and we can cherish and preserve the beauty and diversity of our planet for generations to come.

References and Useful Resources

• https://ecotourism.org/what-is-ecotourism/
• https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-to-know-about-ecotourism
• https://www.unwto.org/tourism-statistics/measuring-sustainability-tourism
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotourism

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ecotourism good or bad.

Participating in ecotourism is advantageous as it helps to reduce waste and pollution, promotes the sustainable use of natural resources, and aids in protecting ecosystems from further harm. It supports conservation efforts by minimizing energy consumption, utilizing renewable energies like solar power, and avoiding disposable plastics.

What is the main purpose of ecotourism?

Ecotourism aims to protect the environment while supporting local communities and preserving their culture.

What is ecotourism an example of?

Ecotourism is a form of sustainable travel that focuses on visiting natural areas to appreciate wildlife and support conservation efforts. The aim of this approach is to reduce environmental footprints and create positive impacts on both the environment and local communities. This stands in contrast to the broader impact of mass tourism.

What is the meaning of ecotourism?

Ecotourism, as defined by the International Ecotourism Society, is a form of travel that preserves natural areas while also promoting the well-being of local communities. The goal of ecotourism is to educate visitors about the environment and encourage sustainable practices that protect it. It also involves providing support for local communities. Essentially, ecotourism is a responsible and sustainable form of travel that benefits both the environment and the people who live in it.

What exactly defines ecotourism?

Ecotourism, which involves responsible travel to natural areas, is focused on supporting conservation efforts and benefiting local communities. This type of tourism aims to promote education about the preservation of nature and cultural appreciation. The goal is to have a positive impact on both the environment and the residents in the area.

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The Frontiers of Society, Science and Technology , 2024, 6(4); doi: 10.25236/FSST.2024.060401 .

Effects of horizontal vs. vertical combinations of names and icons in the brand logo on consumers’ psychological perceptions and brand attitudes

Minting Zhao 1 , Dan Chen 1 , Lei Huang 1 , Teng Ge 2 , Yongqiang Zhang 1

1 College of Art and Design, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China

2 Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi’an, 710021, China

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Based on the stereotype content model, this study explored the effects of the logos in the form of horizontal combinations (icons on the left while names on the right) and vertical combinations (names on the top while icons at the bottom) on consumers’ psychological perceptions and brand attitudes from the perspective of consumers’ psychological demands. In this study, four experiments were conducted by Sojump to demonstrate the effects of horizontal vs. vertical combinations (names and icons in the brand logo) on consumers’ attitudes toward a brand and its intermediate mechanism. From the research,it is found that logo design can meet consumers’ emotional and cognitive demands for brands from psychological aspect.Horizontal combinations of names and icons in the brand logo bring consumers a higher geniality, while vertical combinations of names and icons in the brand logo bring consumers a higher authority. The combinations of names and icons in the brand logo positively affect consumers’ attitudes toward a brand. Psychological distance is regarded as the mediating mechanism between the main effects, and the product type plays a moderating role. This paper further advances the study of different combinations of names and icons in the brand logo on the psychological demands and relationship characteristics of consumers, which provides some guidance for the research of consumers’ cognition and psychology, and also broadens the scope of application of the stereotype content model.

Horizontal combination, Vertical combination, Psychological distance, Psychological perception, Brand attitude

Cite This Paper

Minting Zhao, Dan Chen, Lei Huang, Teng Ge, Yongqiang Zhang. Effects of horizontal vs. vertical combinations of names and icons in the brand logo on consumers’ psychological perceptions and brand attitudes. The Frontiers of Society, Science and Technology (2024), Vol. 6, Issue 4: 1-14. https://doi.org/10.25236/FSST.2024.060401.

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Ecotourism in Ghana

Over recent years, Ghana has emerged as a pioneer in the field of community-based ecotourism, which aims to create a mutually beneficial three-way relationship between conservationists, tourists and local communities. The Boabeng-Fiem Monkey Santuary, home to sacred troops of mona and black-and-white colobus monkeys, led the way in 1995, and it remains the flagship for more than two dozen other community-based tourism projects countrywide. These range from the award winning Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary in the Upper West and Amansuri Wetland Sanctuary in the Western Region to cultural sites such as the Domana Rock Shrine, set in the forests near Kakum National Park, and the painted houses and pottery of Sirigu in the Upper East.

Volta Region, the most topographically varied part of Ghana, also hosts the country’s largest concentration of community-based ecotourism sites, and offers outdoor enthusiasts some superb opportunities for hiking, rambling and mountain biking. Popular attractions include the sacred monkeys of Tafi Atome, a plethora of magnificent forests and waterfalls around Amedzofe, the country’s highest peak on Mount Afadjato, and the magnificent forests and waterfalls around Amedzofe, the country’s highest peak on Mount Afadjato, and the impressive forest-fringed Wli Falls, the tallest cascade in West Africa.

Ghana is highly alluring to birdwatchers, with 725 species recorded in an area comparable to Great Britain. For casual visitors, it is colourful savannah birds such as gonoleks, rollers, parrots and weavers that tend to catch the eye, as well as the eagles and other raptors that inhabit the drier north. Serious birdwatchers, however, are likely to want to seek out the more elusive residents of the shadowy rainforests interiors of Kakum, Bui and Ankasa, as well as the exceptional variety and volume of marine species that congregate on coastal lagoons such as Keta, Songor and Muni-Pomadze.

Not least among Ghana’s Natural attractions are the suberb palm-lined beaches that line its 500km Atlantic Coastline. One of the most beautiful is Ada Foah, on the Volta Estuary, an important nesting site for endangered marine turtles. The beaches flanking Elmina and Cape Coast are ideal for those who wish to combine their sunbathing with some historical sightseeing, while their less developed counterparts further west around Busua, Axim and Beyin offe the opportunity to truly get away from it all in idyllic surrounds. And for those with limited time, there is always La or Coco Beach, lively sun-drenched expanses of white sand situated on the outskirts of the city of Accra

Various Ecotoursim Sites

Kakum Natioanl Park & Assin Attadanso Resource Reserve Kakum and the Assin Attandanso reserves constitute a twin National Park and Resource Reserve. It was gazetted in 1991 and covers an area of about 350 km2 of the moist evergreen forest zone. The emergent trees are exceptionally high with some reaching 65 meters. The reserve has a varied wildlife with some 40 species of larger mammals, including elerpahnats, bongo, red riverhog, seven primates and four squirrels. Bird life is also varied. About 200 species are known to occur in the reserve and include 5 hornbil species, frazer-eagle owl, African grey and Senegal parrots. To date, over 400 species butterflies have been recorded. The Kakum National Park is about the most developed and subscribed eco-tourism site among the wildlife conservation areas.

Nini Suhien National Park & Ankasa Resource Reserve Nini Suhien National Park and Ankasa Resources Reserve are twin Wildlife Protected Areas that are located in the wet evergreen forest area of the Western Region of Ghana. These areas are so rich in biodiversity that about 300 species of plants have been recorded in a single hectare. The areas are largely unexplored but 43 mammal species including the bongo, forest elephant, 10 primate species including the endangered Dina monkey and the West African chimpanzee have been recorded. Bird fauna is also rich. The reserves offer very good example of the west evergreen forest to the prospective tourist.

Mole National  – Click here to Visit Mole Park This park was established in 1958 and re-designated a National Park in 1971. It covers an area of 4,840 km2of undulating terrain with steep scarps. The vegetation is pristine Guinea savanna with gallery forests along the rivers and streams. The Park has over 90 mammal species notably elephants, buffalo, roan, kob, hartebeest, waterbuck and 4 primate species. Lion, leopard and hyena also occur and over 300 bird species have been recorded.

Paga Crocodile Pond  Located in the north-eastern border of Ghana, Paga is a sacred crocodile sanctuary. Although crocodiles are considered as wild creatures, the Paga crocodiles are friendly and coexist with humans.

The friendly relationship between the crocodiles and humans continue to baffle the minds of many. This is in contrast to the perception of crocodiles as dangerous. It is a customary offence to harm, kill or show any sign of disrespect to the crocodile of Paga. It is not uncommon to find children and or visitors sitting at the back of or holding the tale of a crocodile without any harm, after a sacrifice of fowl. This is normal for the people of Paga but a mystery to visitors.

Boabeng – Fiema Monkey Sanctuary Boaben-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary is a community based Sanctuary located at Boaben and Fiema a twin community in the Nkoranza district of Brong Ahafo Region. The sanctuary protects the headwaters of the streams that are consumed in the locality. it has a good number of the Black and White Colobus, Mona, spot nosed monkeys and a variety of birds. The monkeys in the reserve are regarded as the children of the gods of the community; therefore they are neither hunted nor killed. A system of traditional taboos and their community enforcement protected the monkeys for generations. Recent affluence and behalf patterns, coupled with weakening of traditional enforcement of the sanctions associated with the taboo systems however threatened the continued survival of the monkeys. The situation created the need to offer statutory legal instruments to strengthen the traditional protection of the animals. Consequently, the local people were assisted to constitute the reserve under district Assembly byelaws which they are being assisted by the Wildlife Department to enforce. It is the first protected area where local indigenous protection system has been given statutory back-up enforcement of traditional/indigenous protection of wildlife in the country. The reserve is quite accessible by road and has a modest resthouse facility.

Tagbo Falls Liate Wote, home of the serene Tagbo Falls and Mt Afadjato, the highest mountain in Ghana (2950 ft above sea level) is a peaceful village nestled at the foot fo the range of mountains that make up the Ghana-Togo border

Wli Falls 20km from Hohoe, in the Wli Natural Reserve. This waterfall is becoming very popular in the West African sub-region. It is perennial as water cascades throughout the year. It is located at the edge of the Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary, which has hundreds of fruit bats and a few monkeys and antelopes. The water falls from a height of about 1,600 feet

Aburi Botanical Garderns The Aburi Botanic Garden is one of the most beautiful, peaceful and fascinating places in Ghana. Opened in March, 1890, and covering 64.8 hectares and overlooking the Accra coastal plain from an elevation of 370 to 460 metres above sea level, the Aburi Botanic Garden is a must experience for every Ghanaian as well as visitors to Ghana.

Xafi Bird Watching Santuary The Lotor river at Xavi is nestled by coastla savannah fringing the wetlands of the Avu Lagoon. here, a great diversity of birds can be viewed whilst padding a canoe across the river.

Bunso Arboretum Discover the beauty of Bunso Arboretum. This is a 6.5 hectare protected forest reserve, which is home to over 110 species of birds, butterflies, different kinds or herbs and indigenous trees.

Amedzofe You are welcome to this picturesque hilltop settlement of extraordinary beauty, which rests at 2,500 ft above sea level. it is an ideal location for toursists looking for a refreshing, near temparature climate and panoramic views

Tafi Atome Monkey Santuary Tafi Monkey Sanctuary (a sacred grove) is a traditional conservation area backed by statutory enforcement in co-operation with local communities. It is located in the Volta Region of Ghana. Tafi Atome is the home of Mona and Patas monkeys. These monkeys are found in a remnant patch of forests, which has survived fire and human disturbance around the village. These monkeys are regarded as gods and as such the natives do not kill them. They are protected by tradition. Similar sacred groves and burial grounds protected by local people are widespread in the region. These can further be developed for small-scale tourism in the local communities to enhance rural development.

Bia National Park & Resource Reserve/Biosphere Reserve The Bia National Park and Bia Resource Reserve constitute a twin conservation area. It is found in the transitional zone between moist-evergreen and moist semi-deciduous forest types. It covers a total area of 305.62km² of the original National Park, which was later divided into. 277.92km² Bia Resource Reserve and the other 77.7km² represent the National Park.. It is the only the Biosphere Reserve in the country. Sixty-two species of mammals have been recorded. These include 10 primates amongst which are the Black and White Colobus, the Oilve Colobus, Red Colobus monkeys and chimpanzees. The forest elephant and the highly threatened bongo are present. Over 160 species of birds have been recorded; they include the internationally endangered white-breasted guinea fowl.

Bui National Park Bui National Park is the third largest Wildlife Protected Area in the country. It covers 1,821km² and is bisected by the Black Volta. It is located in a typical woodland savanna zone in the Brong Ahafo and Northern Region of Ghana. It has spectacular gallery forests along rivers courses. The reserve is particularly notable for its resident Hippo population in the Black Volta. Primates like the endangered black and white colobus monkey and a variety of antelopes and birds are also present.

Digya National Park The Digya National Park was gazatted in 1971 and covers an area of 3,478 km2 of undulating terrain with sandstone inselbergs. It is situated on the western shores of the Volta Lake. Guinea savanna woodland predominates with gallery forest along the major lines. The Park supports at least six primate species including black and white colobus, elephants and a variety of antelopes. Manatee and clawless otter are also reported to be present in the Park.

Keta Lagoon Complex Ramsar Site The Keta Lagoon Complex, which has management area of 1200km² and lagoon area of 300km², has been established as a wetland protected area (Ramsar site) with multiple-use management and significant local participation. Apart from the conservation objective of protecting thousand of migratory birds, the mangrove forest and breeding grounds of sea turtle, it has tourism potential.

The Keta Lagoon with its brackish waters is the largest lagoon in Ghana. Its tiny islands provide sites of special attraction for Ornithologists, bird watchers and tourists in general. The site is however yet to be developed to receive tourists. It is our hope that the information that we have provided above gives enough insight into the Ghanaian wildlife resources.

Kyabobo National Park Kyabobo National Park, a newly created Park in the Atwode traditional area, is located in the Nkwanta district of the Northern Volta Region. This park which covers an area of 359.8 km² is found in the Dry semi-deciduous forest zone and has both forest and savanna species of plants and animals. Its forests contain the nationally endangered endemic tree Talbotiella gendtii. Animals common to the Park include, Buffalo, Kob, Warthog, Aardvark and Baboon. Threatened species of animals, which with adequate protection may recover, include Lion, Elephant, Bongo, Reedbuck and Hartebeest, which may recolonise the Park from the adjacent Fazao National Park in Togo. Tourist infrastructures are vigorously being developed in Fazaso. Kyabobo will be an attraction from Fazao.

Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary Agumatsa can boast of spectacular geographical features in the district. A forty-five minutes nature walk through cool shades of trees will finally get you to Ghana highest waterfalls (800m). The magnificent view of the falls is enhanced not only by the towering face of the gorge but most extraordinarily by the several thousands of yellow coloured bats clinging to its sides.

Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary Among its protected species, Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary takes pride in housing the rare bare headed rock fowl. Bomfobiri is a showcase of a rare tropical landscape.

Gbele Resource Reserve Gbele resource reserve lies partly in the areas of Wa (regional capital), Nadowli and Tumu (district capital). The reserve is 61km away from Tumu and 89km away from Wa. Vegetation is that of open savannah woodland. Gbele is proud to be associated with faunas such as Roan Antelope, Waterbuck, Hartebeest, Bushbuck, Savannah Duikers, Baboons, Patas monkey, Green monkey and more.

Shai Hills Resource Reserve The reserve consists of a very striking and attractive range of rocky hills set in the middle of expansive open and wooded grassland plain. The rocks are visible in many places as impressible and sleep cliffs and large and attractive rocky outcrops. The reserve is fenced to prevent animals from straying out. It consists of a prominent isolated hill ridge of hornblende gneiss surrounded by an area of Accra Plain savannah. There are beautiful scenic views across the Accra Plain from the top.

Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary Owabi can best be described as a secondary forest surrounding a large water reservoir. It is a tranquil site with a great variety of birdlife and fascinating forest walks. It an ideal place for winter migratory birds and hundreds of Mona Monkeys

Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary A protected area consisting of a 40km stretch down the leangh of the Black Volta River. It is a home ro hippos, bats, chameleans, hedgehogs and many different types of lizards and snakes

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• Cultural Attractions 14
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• 1D Wildlife and jungle trek
• Jungle Night Walk

Primate Watching

• Wildlife Rescue Center Volunteer

It's time for us to be back to nature and find the way to conserve it!

Our team is providing all the travelers a good possibility to participate the eco conservation tours in Phong Nha - Ke Bang national park. 

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2003, covered 85,754 hectares. With this extension, the site covers a total surface area of 123,326 hectares (a 46 % increase) and shares a boundary with the Hin Namno Nature Reserve in the Peoples Democratic Republic of Laos. The Park’s landscape is formed by limestone plateaux and tropical forests. It features great geological diversity and offers spectacular phenomena, including a large number of caves and underground rivers. The site harbours a high level of biodiversity and many endemic species. The extension ensures a more coherent ecosystem while providing additional protection to the catchment areas that are of vital importance for the integrity of limestone landscapes.

Which eco tours are we offering?

One day wildlife and jungle trek

A good day out to learn about the conservation efforts and how hard we try. You will see the wildlife animals, trek through the stunning jungle and experience the local histories.

Night walk to spot the night life wildlife

If you would love to spot some wildlife animals at the night time, this is a good tour to see how it's going at the night time. It is another world to see and experience.

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is the paradise for watching many speices of brids and especially the endemic langurs: Red-shanked Douc and Hatinh langur.

1D Jungle Adventure Trek

If you are searching for one full day to explore our stunning rain forest, this tour would be a perfect option for you. Check it out!

Volunteer Work

The Rescue Center for Wildlife Animals needs your help to support a lot of work on the enrichment for the residents. If you have some time and would love to spend on helping the animals, this could be an amazing option.

Caves Adventure

Many adventurous cave tours are organized by a few good companies. We are still working on this page!!! Many thanks!

Some feedbacks from the travelers!!!