ECOTOURISM

1. ECOTOURISM Dr. Arvind S. Dhabe Department of Botany Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad 431004, India. arvind@asdhabe.com www.asdhabe.com

2. For the sake of our convenience, we divide this topic into three parts Tourism Ecotourism Study tour

3. 2010 International Biodiversity Year 2011 International Tourism Year

4. Definitions - • The word tour is derived from the Latin, 'tornare' and the Greek, 'tornos', meaning 'a lathe or circle; the movement around a central point or axis or one's turn'. Theobald (1994) • The suffix –ism is defined as 'an action or process; typical behavior or quality', while the suffix, –ist denotes 'one that performs a given action'. • Tour represents a journey in that it is a round-trip, i.e., the act of leaving and then returning to the original starting point. • Tourism is the process of tour. • Tourist is one who takes such a journey

5. Tourism :- The commercial organization and operation of holidays and visits of interest. Tour :- A journey for pleasure in which several different places are visited. Tourist :- A person who travels for pleasure. Ecotourism :- Tourism directed towards unspoilt natural environment and intended to support conservation efforts. (Source: Oxford Thesaurus)

6. Excursion :- A short journey or trip for pleasure or observe something Exploration :- Travel through (an unfamiliar area) in order to learn about it in search of. Wandering for analyze, examine, inspect, investigate, look into probe, research, scrutinize, study of particular object. Expedition :- A journey taken by a group of people (experts) with a particular purpose. (Source: Oxford Thesaurus)

7. Most visited countries by international tourist arrivals Rank Country World Tourism Organization

8. International tourism receipts World Tourism Organization

9. International tourism expenditures World Tourism Organization

10. Most visited cities

11. Can we lead India in World Tourism ?

12. Yes, We can!

13. A Unique Country : India • Largest Democratic Country in the world. • 2nd populist country. • 1652 spoken languages are recorded. • Worlds highest Mountain Himalaya protects the country on North. • It receives worlds highest rainfall. • Hot and cold deserts are found in India. • Lowest and highest temperatures are sometimes recorded from India. • Ganga, Bramhaputra and hundreds of other rivers run through the Indian sub continent. • Worlds largest freshwater Island ‘Majauli’ is in Bramhaputra river in Assam. • Worlds largest back water lake ‘ Chilka’ in Orissa.

14. Worlds only ‘Floating National Park’ ‘Keibul Lamjao National Park’ in Manipur. • Worlds largest delta ‘Sundarban’ is in West Bengal. • Andaman and Nicobar are coral islands in Bay of Bengal and Lakshadweep islands in Arabian sea. • The only Valley of Flowers is in Uttarakhand. • Alpuza/Allepy is the Venice of the East in Kerala. • Yumthang Valley in Sikkim is Switzerland of the East. • Worlds richest Biodiversity, Hottest hot spot i.e. Mawphlong forest, Meghalaya.

15. Worlds highest motorable road 18380 ft. (Manali-Leh-Laddakh) is in India. • Worlds highest Air port Leh is in India. • Worlds 2nd highest Railway station ‘Ghoom’ is in Darjeeling. • Worlds longest Railway station platform is in Kharagpur. • 420 Universities have been enlisted in India. • 27 UNESCO world Heritage sites are in India and 18 sites are submitted to UNESCO to declare world heritage sites.

16. Biodiversity status of India • India is one of the twelve Mega-biodiversity centers. • Out of 18 hotspots listed in the world, two hot spots e.g. Eastern Himalaya (3500 endemic species) and Western Ghats (1600 endemic species) are in India. • Genetic, Cropland and agricultural, Species, Ecosystem and Human cultural diversities are very rich. • Many Cereals and millets, Pulses, Fruits, Vegetables, Oilseeds, Spices and Condiments and other crops are originated and their thousands of infra specific categories are reported from India

17. Statistics of species diversity with endemism

18. All possible ecosystems are present in India like Coastal ecosystem to Alpine habitats, Tropical moist evergreen forest to dry deciduous forest and from hot deserts to cold deserts. • All fourteen forest types are reported in India. • There are 448 wildlife Sanctuaries and 85 National Parks in India. • 2170 natural and 65254 manmade wetlands are recorded in India.

19. Tourism is the fastest growing industry in the world. • A Nation’s economy is directly based on the number of tourists visited. • Foreign tourists help fetching foreign currencies in terms of – • VISA fees • Air tickets • Hotels • Foods • Beverages • Transportation • Handicrafts and souvenirs • Local products etc.

20. Types of Tourism • Observing Natural beauty and scenery. • Visiting Wild life and Bird watching. • Visiting World Heritage sites and Historic places and Monuments. • Gourmet satisfying taste buds through different cuisines. • Thirsty traveling in search of famous liquors. • Medical tourism ex. Surgeries and surrogacy, test tube babies, rejuvenating therapies, Panchakarmas, Physiotherapy etc. • Adventure tourism ex. Mountaineering, Rock climbing, Cross countries, Rafting etc. • Shopping tourism. • Pilgrimage tourism. • Ecotourism • Excursion and Research tourism

24. To Promote Tourism • Maintain cleanliness. • Better approach roads. • Proper display boards. • Adequate facilities of safe drinking water. • Adequate facilities of clean toilets. • Courtesy nature of locals. • Co-operative, friendly, polite and well mannered behavior of locals. • Establish good relationship with tourist so they can refer you to their friends and relatives. • Adequate efforts should be taken by ITDC and State tourism development corporation to advertise at large.

25. ECOTOURISM THE TRAVELLER’S CODE OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND CULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY • “Travel is passage through other people’s lives and other people’s places” • BE FLEXIBLE: • Are you prepared to accept culture and practices that are different from your • own? • CHOOSE RESPONSIBLY: • Have you selected to support businesses that are clearly and actively address the • cultural and environmental concern of the locale you are visiting? • DO YOUR HOMEWORK: • Have you done research about the people and places you plan to visit, so you • may avoid what may innocently offend them or harm their environment? Have you • learned the basic manners, and polite phrases in the language of the place you • plan to visit?

26. BE AWARE: • Are you informed of the holidays, holy-days and general religious and social • customs of places you will visit? • SUPPORT SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: • Have you made commitment to contribute to the local economy by purchasing • from local run hotels, restaurant, tour operator, shops and buying from local • artisan crafts? • BE RESPECTFUL AND OBSERVANT: • Are you willing to respect local laws that may include restrictions on purchases, • usage of or access to places and things that may harm or otherwise erode the • environment, or alter the culture of places you visit?

27. ENVIRONMENTAL PLEDGE 1. STATIONARY & OTHER PUBLICITY MATERIAL ON RECYCLED PAPER: We will introduce the use of recycled paper for our stationary and other publicity items such as brochures, menu cards, etc. and establish a recycling programme. 2. POLYTHENE BAGS We will convert wherever possible from the use of polythene bags to paper bags, cloth bags and other alternatives. 3. ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF ENERGY FOR FUEL Where possible, we will convert to solar power such as solar heating and lightning etc. to reduce the use of thermal electricity. 4. GARBAGE DISPOSAL We will introduce the system of separating recyclable and non-recyclable garbage emanating from our operations and dispose non-biodegradable garbage in a responsible way, so as not to harm the local environment. 5. WATER CATCHMENT & TREATMENT Wherever possible we would recycle water by incorporating water treatment schemes. We will also make storage and catchments facilities for rainwater to be used for our operations.

28. 6. ECOLODGES & RESORTS We pledge to conserve the ecology, animal and bird life of the area our properties are located in. 7. PLANTATION OF SAPLINGS We will encourage plantation of saplings and greening of the local environment. 8. ALTERNATE USE OF FUELS We will limit the burning of firewood and use alternate sources of fuel for both cooking and heating 9. USE OF LOCAL ETHNIC MATERIALS IN CONSTRUCTION OF PROPERTIES In keeping with the local landscaping, we will incorporate architectural styles typical to the area, thus blending harmoniously with the local environment. 10. EMPLOYMENT OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES Wherever possible, we will use local employment for our business to enhance the economy of our area.

29. 11. LIMIT DEFORASTATION: We will make no open fires and discourage others from doing so. Where water is heated by scarce firewood, we will not use it or use as little of it as possible. Wherever possible, we will choose accommodation that uses kerosene or fuel efficient firewood stoves. 12. KEEP LOCAL WATER CLEAN: Toilet facilities will be pitched at least 30 meters away from the water source and all waste will be covered properly. We will not Allow detergents to be used in streams and springs. 13. PLANTS LEFT IN THEIR NATUIRAL ENVIRONMENT: We will not take away cuttings, seeds, roots that are illegal in many parts of the Himalayas. 14. RESPECT LOCAL CULTURES: We will promote the appreciation and preservation of religious places and local villages by never allowing clients to buy religious objects or heirlooms from remote villages

30. DO’S AND DONT’S IN WILD LIFE SANCTUARY • The Forest is a hallowed temple of life, respect it. Revere it and help protect it. • Obtain permission before entering a park or sanctuary and take a guide / naturalist • and observe all rules. • Drive very slowly for this way you will hear, observe and enjoy the most without • disturbing the animals in any way. • Maintain a reasonable distance from all animals. Anything closer than “the critical • distance” will make them flee or attack. • Listen to the jungle orchestra insteated of transistor and tape recorders. • Don’t be disappointed if you don’t see the tiger, the jungle is an undiscovered • world of small yet beautiful mammals, birds, insects and plants. • Dress in neutral colors that blend with forests- khakis, browns and olive green is ideal. • Wild animals have right of way. • Guns are taboo.

31. ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES / CHECKS FOR AIRLINES • Proper noise abatement procedures are followed to minimize • noise in near by communities on take off and landing. • A fleet renewal programme is in place to meet “chapter / stage three” • level of noise emission. • To collaborate through trade association such as IATA to minimize • engine emissions hazards to environment. • To collaborate within the industry to find CFC free replacement for • air-conditioning units both in aircrafts and ground facilities. • Qualified technicians are used for the maintenance of air-conditioning • units to prevent the escape of ozone depleting chemicals. • The use of glycol is strictly controlled for containment recycling.

32. 7. Programme and procedures are in place for the control, proper clean up and disposal of chemicals and petroleum spills. 8. Programme and procedures are the place for appropriate treatment of chemicals prior to disposal and recycling. 9. Chemicals use for cleaning and sanitizing aircrafts are non-aerosol products, bio-degradable and least toxic available as practical. 10. Employees, both in the air and on the ground, are involve in the recycling of paper, glass, cans and plastics. 11. Proper facilities and procedures are utilized to safely dispose of wastes for arriving and departing flights. 12. In flight magazines and videos are use to increase tourist awareness and Knowledge of natural and cultural heritage of destinations being visited. Also nurture and appreciations for the culture and tradition of host populations.

33. ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES / CHECKS FOR VEHICLES 1. Driving procedures are in place to minimize engine and noise emissions. 2. Engines are turned off when the vehicle is stationary for more than two minutes 3. A fleet renewal program is in place to acquire vehicles with greater fuel efficiency and higher emission standards. 4. Air conditioning units are properly maintained by qualified technicians to prevent the escape of ozone deleting chemicals. 5. Chemicals used on vehicles for cleaning and sanitizing are non aerosol products, bio- degradable, and least toxic available. 6. A program is in place to recycle glass, paper, cans and plastics. 7. Maintenance depots have programs and procedures in place for the appropriate disposal and recycling of fuels, oils and hazardous wastes.

34. ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES / CHECKS FOR RESTAURANTS 1. Energy efficient equipment is utilized for food storage and preparation and is well maintained to increase energy efficiency. 2. Refrigerators & air conditioners are periodically checked for leaks to prevent loss of Freon. 3. Employees participate in the recycling of glass, cans, paper and plastics. 4. To work with suppliers to reduce packaging and to develop reusable shipping containers. 5. Supplies should be purchased in bulk as practical dispensers utilized for condiments, soft drinks, dairy products and other items where health regulations allow. 6. Paper, when used, is recycled and unbleached. 7. Grease is disposed of in accordance with proper procedures. 8. Chemicals used for cleaning and sanitizing are non aerosol products, biodegradable and least toxic available. 9. A program to purchase locally and organically grown foods is in place. 10. Guests are informed of steps being taken to protect the environment and reduce waste.

35. “The Leave No Trace” Principles of outdoor ethics form the framework of Leave No Trace’s message • Plan Ahead and Prepare • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces • Dispose of Waste Properly • Leave What You Find • Minimizing Campfire Impacts • Respect Wildlife • 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

36. Plan Ahead and Prepare • Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you will visit. • Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies. • Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. • Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into groups of 4-6. • Repackage food to minimize waste. • Use a map and compass and GPS to eliminate the use of marking paint, • rock cairns or flagging.

37. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces • Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, • dry grasses or snow. • Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. • Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary. • In popular areas. • Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites. • Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. • Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation Is absent. • In Pristine areas. • Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails. • Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

38. Dispose of Waste Properly • Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or • spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. • Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least • 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. • Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. • To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

39. Leave What You Find • Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic • structures and artifacts. • Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them. • Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. • Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

40. Minimize Campfire Impacts • Campfire can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight • stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light. • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. • Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. • Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter • cool ashes

41. Respect Wildlife • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. • Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters • natural behaviours and exposes them to predators and other dangers. • Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securly. • Control pets at all times or leave them at home. • Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating nesting, raising young or winter.

42. Be Considerate of Other Visitors • Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. • Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trails • Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock. • Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. • Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

43. BIODEGRADABILITY Can you guess how long it will take for These things to biodegrade? Banana peel: 3-4 weeks Paper bag: 1month Cotton rag: 5 months Woolen socks: 1 year Wood: 10-15 years Leather shoes: 40-50 year Tin can: 50-100 years Aluminium can: 200-500 years Styrofoam cup: Eternity Plastic bag: 1 million years Glass bottle: Unknown Source: Centre for Science & Environment (CSE, New Delhi)

44. Study Tour • The most important co-curricular activity in the field of education • It is the duty of teachers to arrange study tours according to the curriculum of the subject.

45. The Objectives of Study Tour • To attract students towards tourism. • To enrich their knowledge. • To create awareness about our Environment, Ecosystem, Biodiversity and Cultures. • To develop leadership qualities in the youth. • To develop National integration. • To develop brotherhood among them self's and also with the co-passengers and locale.

46. The Objectives of Study Tour • To develop their personality through – • Punctuality • Time management • Decision making • Adjustment nature • Communication skill • Boldness • Social life • Frankness • Helping nature

47. How to arrange the tour Programme ? • The duration of tour should not exceed 10 days. • It should include the places of curricular importance, popular tourist destinations, world heritage sites or any popular religious or pilgrimage centre. • Study tour should be out of state and covering at least 3 to 4 spots. • All spots should not be hill stations or costlier. • Proper season should be selected. • Attract students by delivering a lecture, slide show of the tourist spots. • Convenience the parents positively.

48. Prefer Railway journey than S.T. Buses and Private luxury Coaches • Railway reservations should be confirmed and made at least 2months before departure date. • Transportation, Accommodation, food, Entry tickets, parking etc. be calculated by enquiring the locale. • A reserved amount should be kept separately that can be used in emergencies. • Prefer Youth hostels if available or book a secured place of accommodation. • Provide fresh and hygienic food. • Ask your students to prefer local food. • Carry general medicines of fever, Cough and Cold Diarrhea, Dysentery and First Aid kit. • Administer Avomin tablets to vomiting sensitive fellows.

49. Take undertaking from students and parents. • Distribute the detailed tour Programme to students and the parents. • Ask your students not to carry jewellery and valuables. • Ask your students to maintain discipline and obey the orders. • Prepare a list of contacts of students, Parents and teachers. • Prior permission is required to enter a National park, Wildlife sanctuary and Biosphere reserves. • Arrange few competitions during the tour. • Give awards to the best submitted reports of the tour. • Maintain record of each tour which will be of immense importance for NAAC and other inspections

50. Students concession • Indian Railway • 50% to Open category students • 75% to SC and ST category students. • State Transport Corporation • 50% to All category students • Shipping Corporation of India • 50% to All category students • Air India • 35% to All category students Up to the age of 25 years.