Tourism is undoubtedly one of the fastest-growing industries. The rising living standard, increased leisure time, and the desire to learn about the world have increased the mobility of worldwide travellers. In 2015, the number of international travellers was reported to be 1.18 billion, representing a 262% increase compared to 1990. This number is predicted to reach 1.6 billion by 2020, surpassing the combined total population of Europe and the U.S.
Tourism has significantly benefited some destinations, serving as the primary source of income and a substantial job provider. Last year, tourism generated US$7.6 trillion (approximately 10% of global GDP) and supported 227 million jobs (approximately 1 in 11). In some small islands and developing countries, tourism is the mainstay of the local economy, where its importance to the country’s finances tends to be higher. Tourism growth has been proven to help combat poverty and alleviate unemployment issues.
Tourism has brought significant benefits to some destinations, serving as a primary source of income and employment. Last year, tourism generated US$7.6 trillion (10% of global GDP) and 227 million jobs (approximately 1 in 11). In some small islands and developing countries, tourism is the mainstay of the local economy, where its importance to the country’s finances tends to be higher. Tourism growth has been proven to help combat poverty and alleviate unemployment issues.
However, this tremendous growth does not happen without consequences. Tourism has been found to have devastating impacts on the broader environment and society. To name a few, hotels are a significant consumer of water, which has led to conflicts between local use and tourism development. In Tanzania, while the tourism and hotel industry is on the rise, tourists are enjoying a variety of water facilities. However, farmers in Dar es Salaam have been left with no choice but to use polluted water to irrigate their crops, as they have no access to clean water. (More on http://www.ippmedia.com/?l=88539). Studies have shown that every household in Zanzibar uses an average of 93 litres of water per day, whereas the average consumption of water in a five-star hotel can reach up to 3,195 litres per room per day. These figures demonstrate the intense pressure on local water resources caused by tourism. Sewage and wastewater discharge from hotels could also lead to freshwater contamination.
Contributing to global warming is another significant problem in tourism, as air travel releases substantial amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The loss of forests for tourism infrastructures also aggravates the carbon emission problem. While natural beauty is one of the main tourist attractions, the growth of tourism activities can hurt the beautiful scenery. For example, the construction of tourism infrastructure causes a transformation of the landscape and disruption of views; water activities can also lead to pollution and harm to marine life and biodiversity.
Socially, tourism can transform local cultures into commodities when traditional elements are modified to meet tourist expectations. The visit of the Maasai tribe is one typical example. In Tanzania, tourists usually expect to see Maasai men dancing in their beautiful clothes and jewellery, but have little interest in experiencing their real lives and work. As a result, only the most interesting aspects will be preserved to satisfy tourists and generate revenue. The authenticity of the destination might eventually be lost. Furthermore, tourists may, out of ignorance or carelessness, fail to respect local customs and values, which can cause irritation to the local communities and, in the worst case, lead to resentment.
Fortunately, having recognised the negative impacts caused by tourism development, the industry has already begun to mitigate these impacts and strive for sustainable tourism. A sustainable approach to tourism means that tourism resources and attractions should be utilised in a manner that neither the natural environment nor society is impaired; on the contrary, they should benefit both economically and culturally from tourism. Some existing practices include applying energy-efficient engines to aircraft, introducing renewable energy and greywater schemes to conserve resources, educating tourists on respecting the environment and community, and more.
The question is, how can we tourists, as the industry’s major consumers, help address the problems? Many industrial actions would be useless if we refused to change our behaviours accordingly. Developing sustainable tourism requires our cooperation; even the smallest actions matter.
So, here are some practical tips to being a responsible traveller.
- Don’t litter. Try to take the rubbish with you until you can find a bin. Help preserve the lovely scenery for others.
- Try to avoid excessive use of plastic bottles and bags by bringing your own reusable water bottle and shopping bag. (Not all countries have a disposal/ recycling system for plastics.)
- Reduce energy consumption. Turn off unused lights and electrical appliances.
- Conserve water by taking shorter showers. As you enjoy your long shower, remember that people in the same area have limited access to clean water.
- Always ask before taking photos of someone—respect when they say no.
- Respect cultural differences. You might experience something that exceeds your expectations, but that’s the authentic culture; embrace it and enjoy it.
- Dress respectively. Some countries are relatively conservative, in that shoulders and knees are expected to be covered.
- Don’t purchase products that are made of endangered species.
- Buy locally and eat locally. It’s the best way to experience the local culture, and your spending could help support the whole family. Purchasing locally can also help reduce the carbon emissions caused by transportation.
- Before you go, take some time to check out your holiday providers (hotel, travel agent, tour operator)—support those who promote sustainable travel.
“The movement for responsible tourism is gathering pace – we can make tourism a better experience for hosts and guests”
