The Pros and Cons of Ecotourism: How to Move Forward in a Sustainable Way
During World War II, the American heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis was tragically sunk by a Japanese torpedo shortly after delivering components for the first atomic bomb. Struck just after midnight near Guam, the explosion ignited 3,500 gallons of aviation fuel and sank the ship in only 12 minutes. Of the 1,196 crew members, around 900 survived the initial sinking and were left clinging to debris and life jackets in the open ocean.
With few lifeboats available, the men floated in the water for days, exposed to the elements. Sharks, drawn by the noise, movement, and potential blood in the water, began circling. Survivors recalled the sharks initially targeting floating corpses before attacking the living. Hallucinations, dehydration, and heat exposure further devastated the group. After nearly five days, the USS Cecil J. Doyle rescued the final survivors. Only 316 men were saved. While the exact number of shark attack fatalities is uncertain, estimates range from dozens to over 150. Reports suggested that Oceanic White Tip Sharks, a more opportunistic South Pacific species, were responsible.
This story, sensationalized in popular culture and films like Jaws, contributed to the widespread fear and vilification of sharks. But public opinion has shifted over time thanks to scientific research, awareness campaigns, and media efforts like Shark Week. Rather than fear, curiosity and admiration for sharks have grown.
An Oceanic Whitetip Shark
That transformation is crucial to understanding the role ecotourism can play in conservation. A 2011 economic summary revealed that shark diving in Fiji alone contributed $42.2 million to the local economy. This demonstrates how ecotourism can change public perception, turning once-feared animals into valued symbols of biodiversity.
What is Ecotourism, and Why Does It Matter?
Ecotourism, in simple terms, is environmentally responsible travel to natural areas. It promotes conservation and benefits local communities. Activities range from shark diving and fishing to hiking in state parks or exploring national parks like Yellowstone, which drew millions of visitors and generated $834 million in 2022 alone, while also supporting nearly 9,000 jobs.
Compared to traditional tourism, ecotourism offers more sustainable economic growth. For example, in places like Costa Rica and Nepal, typical tourism returns only about 20% of profits to local communities. Ecotourism, however, can return up to 95%, empowering local people to transition from environmentally harmful activities (like logging) to conservation-focused ones (like guiding tours).
The Dark Side of Ecotourism
Despite its benefits, ecotourism isn’t without flaws. It can sometimes harm the very environments and communities it claims to protect. For example, in East Africa, around 70% of national parks and reserves occupy land taken, often illegally, from Indigenous tribes like the Maasai. This displacement leads to cultural erosion, where native communities become spectacles for tourists rather than respected stakeholders.
Additionally, poorly managed ecotourism can stress ecosystems by disrupting predator-prey relationships, contributing to soil erosion, and increasing the consumption of limited natural resources like fresh water and food.
How Do We Make Ecotourism Truly Sustainable?
Ecotourism, at its best, can be a powerful tool for conservation, education, and community development. But to ensure it’s done right, we must ask critical questions and hold ourselves accountable as travelers.
Think of the 4 C’s of Ecotourism:
Conservation – Is the environment being protected?
Community – Are local people benefitting and involved?
Culture – Are traditions respected and preserved?
Commerce – Is money staying within the local economy?
When planning your trip, look for organizations and destinations that prioritize these principles. Pack eco-friendly gear—reef-safe sunscreen, biodegradable toiletries, reusable water bottles—and stay in certified green accommodations. These small decisions have a big collective impact.
Conclusion
Ecotourism has the potential to shift the narrative, from fear to fascination, from exploitation to empowerment. By participating thoughtfully and ethically, travelers can help protect fragile ecosystems, uplift local communities, and celebrate the rich cultures that call these places home. The future of ecotourism depends on us making mindful choices that align with our values, because when done right, ecotourism doesn’t just benefit tourists, it safeguards the world we’re all trying to preserve.
