#Editorial

Ecotourism at a glance!

Dec 23, 2020, 10:58 AM

Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism.

It plays an important role in promoting the welfare of many indigenous communities in Africa.

Ecotourism purpose may be to educate the traveler, to provide funds for ecological conservation, to directly benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local communities, or to foster respect for different cultures and for human rights.

Since the 1980s ecotourism has been considered a critical endeavor by environmentalists, so that future generations may experience destinations relatively untouched by human intervention. Several university programs use this description as the working definition of ecotourism.

In the recent past the number of eco-friendly tourist spots that emerged across the Gambia has been amazing. Lovers of nature and travel are more focusing on ecotourism sector.

Apart from focusing on socially responsible travel, ecotourism is good for personal growth, and environmental sustainability. It typically involves travel to destinations where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions.

Ecotourism offer tourists insight into the impact of human beings on the environment, and to foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats.

Responsible ecotourism programs include those that minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people.

Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, an integral part of ecotourism is the promotion of recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation, and creation of economic opportunities for local communities.

For these reasons, ecotourism often appeals to advocates of environmental and social responsibility.

A guest editorial

Read Other Articles In Editorial
Good Morning Mr President: Rainy season is back, let’s work together
Jun 19, 2023, 12:28 PM

Mr President, this year’s rainy season started last week in some parts of Upper River Region with heavy downpour experienced in most areas.

A look at high commodity prices!
Mar 2, 2022, 11:49 AM

The prices of basic food commodities in the country have shot-up in the market across the country. Let’s not forget that affordable and accessible food prices are key determinants in any nation’s development.

Good Morning Mr. President: On appointments in the foreign services, corruption and WASSCE results
Aug 22, 2022, 11:26 AM

Mr. President, the appointment of Gambians in the foreign services should be based on competency, academic qualifications among others.

Good Morning Mr President: OIC Summit and CoPG
Nov 14, 2022, 9:58 AM

Hosting OIC Summit in The Gambia
Mr President, watching the coverage of the OIC projects on state TV, we have noted a lot of issues surrounding hosting the OIC Summit in The Gambia this year. In the first place, we wonder whether within seven weeks the construction of the 20 road projects and the 5-star hotel will actually be completed for the summit to be held in The Gambia this year.