Have you already heard the buzzword eco-tourism before? What about sustainable tourism certification programs such as EarthCheck and Green Key? In this short article, we will discuss what eco-tourism and eco-certifications are, and how they shape the travel industry.
Eco-tourism is a subset of sustainable tourism, which emphasises nature-based tourism, managed in a sustainable manner. Eco-tourism supports the conservation of nature and involves an educated interpretation of the environment (Buckley, 1994)[1]. This form of tourism pushes tourists to choose their destinations and activities based on how minimal of an ecological footprint they have. Examples of eco-tourist activities include wildlife safaris, hiking, camping, and stays at eco-lodges.
Eco-tourism positively impacts various sectors, from nature conservation to local economies. It contributes to the well-being of our planet by preserving wildlife and natural habitats, and that of local communities by boosting their economies.
Several certifications or accreditation programs endorse and evaluate destinations and activities aligned with environmentally and socially responsible tourism. These initiatives play a key role in shaping sustainable tourism and have made significant strides in promoting sustainability. EarthCheck and Green Key are notable sustainable tourism certification programs, which have profound influence over the travel industry, contributing to a more sustainable and responsible tourism sector.
EarthCheck focuses on helping businesses to commit to sustainable practices which minimise their environmental footprint. This certification program ensures that travellers can confidently support businesses actively working towards protecting the planet, by providing them with detailed information about these sustainability efforts. EarthCheck demands a rigorous process of evaluation and improvement from the businesses it certifies and offers the information about this process transparently to travellers; empowering them to align their values with their travel choices.
GreenKey is a further eco-certification program which tests the travel destinations based on their commitment to sustainable practices and the minimisation of their environmental impact. This certification provides travellers with information such as the energy efficiency or waste management of their accommodation, and also provides information and opportunities to travellers to participate in sustainability initiatives.
In conclusion, as sustainability increasingly becomes a core value for many travellers; the demand for eco-certified destinations continues to rise. EarthCheck and Green Key are instrumental as they provide travellers with the power to make informed and environmentally responsible choices. These certifications serve as excellent examples of how acknowledging and rewarding businesses for their commitment to sustainable practices can drive further improvements. These certifications are instrumental for travellers seeking to make a positive contribution to the destinations they visit and proof of those destinations' dedication to sustainability. These programs are a catalyst for change in the tourism sector and empower travellers to make environmentally conscious choices.
Shani Terblanche, Communication Associate
[1] Buckley, R. (1994). A framework for ecotourism. Annals of Tourism Research, 21(3),661 -665.
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