University of Aarhus ECOTOURISM AS A WAY TO PROTECT ...
University of Aarhus ECOTOURISM AS A WAY TO PROTECT ...
University of Aarhus ECOTOURISM AS A WAY TO PROTECT ...
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Ecotourism as a sustainable way to protect nature<br />
ecotourists. It helps to ensure that the latter do not have negative impacts on<br />
natural environment and local culture (Bouchdjira, 2002). In addition, it is<br />
necessary to prepare detailed and specialised information for ecotourists, both<br />
before and during the trip (Megan, 1993). The information can be designed in<br />
various forms, such as brochures, guidebooks, leaflets, maps, eco-museums,<br />
signpost nature trails etc. They should contain details on flora, fauna, geology,<br />
and in general on the ecosystem to be visited and provide guidelines for what the<br />
tourists may and may not do during transport and on site (Eugenio, 2002). All<br />
information will help ecotourists to understand <strong>of</strong> the areas they are going to<br />
visit. In other words, tourists should already be educated before starting the tour.<br />
With regards to the educational aspects <strong>of</strong> visitors, many businesses and<br />
organisations have promoted a less damaging brand <strong>of</strong> tourism and recreation. It<br />
can be a designed as signs, pamphlets, posters, and T-shirts. All these measures<br />
are meant to warn visitors against disturbance and destruction <strong>of</strong> wild species<br />
and their habitat (Ruth et al., 1998). In addition, through the tours, ecotourists<br />
will learn from nature, understand processes and developments and get involved<br />
in looking after endangered species or ecological activities (Oliver, 2001).<br />
Furthermore, public relations also contribute to raising environmental<br />
awareness for both local communities and visitors (Oliver, 2001). It educates<br />
through the newspapers, broadcast media such as radio, television, etc. This type<br />
<strong>of</strong> activity should be supported by government agencies.<br />
2.6.3. Ecotourism benefit to promote conservation<br />
Ecotourism as a support for biodiversity conservation has been mentioned<br />
by a number <strong>of</strong> scientists. It is <strong>of</strong>ten viewed as an effective means for promoting<br />
the conservation <strong>of</strong> endangered species and habitats in developing countries.<br />
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