Feeling guilty about vacationing abroad? No more. As an eco-tourist you can actually make a difference for the environment.
“Eco-tourism can save threatened areas,” says zoologist Lars-åke Janzon
In Pantanal, Brazil, the world’s largest wetland, tourism has contributed to more sustainable living conditions for its birds and animals.
“Thanks to tourism people in this area understand the value in preserving the unique environment,” says André von Thuronyi.
He runs Araras Ecolodge in northern Pantanal where he has been guiding tourists for more than 30 years. He says people’s attitudes have changed during the years.
”Before, the farmers shot jaguars and pumas to protect their livestock. Parrots that ate fruit in gardens were captured and sold, caymans were made into shoes and bags. Tourism has made a difference,” he said.
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Earlier this year Brazil launched a nationwide operation against illegal hunting and trade in wildlife, in collaboration with Interpol. 72 people were arrested for having smuggled half a million wild animals a year to rich customers around the world.
Eco-tourism
• Promotes minimal impact
• Builds environmental and cultural respect
• Provides direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Provides financial empowerment and financial commitments to locals.
