An example I like to give how ecotourism can help locals is, you are visiting a new city/country and want something to eat. You can either choose the national chain where the food is the same all over the country and has usually travelled hundreds of miles by road or air so that it tastes the same or you can use a local restaurant that sources all its ingredients locally.
Sourcing locally as well as reducing the carbon footprint of your meal also helps the local restaurant and its suppliers in the local area – giving back to the community where you are staying. This isn’t always the case but usually the food is of a higher standard and tastes a lot nicer as well.
So you help local businesses survive, you reduce your food carbon footprint as its sourced locally and you get a great meal.
Eco travelling is here to stay and that’s only a good thing especially as more people become aware of the damage we as a species are doing to our home. Yes we have to make a few changes in how we travel but these small sacrifices can lead to a big impact.
What’s your plan to help travel more environmentally friendly?