Tourism and the Environment  

Mass Tourism and discriminating tourist, who are only pre-occupied with the “big five” mentality have in the past years contributed to the degradation of the environment and harassment of wildlife.

Thanks to the Eco-tourism concept which has been championed by the tourist destinations globally with a view to changing the “big five” mammal mentality and developing other environmentally friendly types of tourism. Eco-Tourism is thus an important of tourism development. The latter incorporates a strong commitment to nature and a sense of social responsibility. In this respect, the present and the future generations are argued to conserve the environment while the government is committed to strengthening and enforcing anti-poaching and nature based conservation policies which will ensure the development of responsible tourism in the country.

It should be noted, however, that eco-tourist prefer to use of local resources and expertise, which in turn translates into import savings. The use of local resources and expertise also translates into environmentally sensitive patterns and local participation in the travel industry.

Its emphasis on local resources and employment makes it attractive to developing countries, which though rich in natural resources are disadvantaged by rural poverty and lack of export earnings.

The Value of biodiversity is more widely appreciated in the whole world. However, pressure on wildlife and their natural habitats is increasing due to encroachment of human activities and intensified resource extraction. Accordingly conservation of biodiversity must be seen with in wider context of national economies, social goals and aspirations.

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