Responsible Tourism has been adopted by South Africa in 1996 as a national policy. Tourism is the world’s biggest industry. It provides with an economic boost to the developing countries. As the tourism industry grows, there will be both benefits as well as rising costs. The benefits of tourism are by far many and include increased employment and earnings for foreign exchange and so on. Tourism incurs costs like social exploitation, habitat destruction and environmental degradation etc. With responsible tourism, the tourism industry can be developed by incorporating the responsibility issues. Responsible tourism has become very important in the modern world and it lays stress on the social, economic and environmental impacts. The benefits for local people are maximized through responsible tourism.
South Africa has recognized the need for responsible tourism and promoted this concept. A White Paper on “Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa” was published in 1996, followed by the production of national policy Guidelines for Responsible Tourism in 2001-2002. Many tour operators have developed a network with a mission for improving tourism industry’s sustainability. There is an organization called PIRT or Partners in Responsible Tourism, which works for responsible tourism. It is a network of people and tourism company representatives, who share a common interest in and concern for adventure travel, ecotourism, tourism development and effect of tourism on the local cultures, people and environment.
There are many more such organizations like The Responsible Tourism Partnership, United Nations Environment Programme, The Travel Foundation and ResponsibleTravel.com that are contributing efforts for responsible tourism. There are many awards also constituted for people and organizations that are working for the cause of responsible tourism. The Cape Town Declaration in 2002 has been quite instrumental in combining the social, environmental and economic development along with responsible tourism in various destinations.
The tourists also can contribute to this concept of responsible tourism in many ways. They can either undergo a training program for the same purpose or get involved in some way or the other to help the local population. Take cheaper modes of travel and make use of the local companies of South Africa for all tourism purposes. Biodegradable products can be used and also be wise in using the limited resources like fuels, electricity and water. The local habitats and wildlife can be preserved by respecting and following the regulations and rules. Do not buy products that are produced from endangered species. Show and give due respect to the local culture, people and customs and traditions.
One of the ways in which you can involve in responsible tourism is by going on a tour of lion monitoring expedition in South Africa. It includes the aspects of wildlife conservation and volunteering. This is perfectly suitable for tourists that are adventurous and really care for the environment. This is a research programme and it is a unique opportunity to learn and contribute. You will gain knowledge and training from trained professionals and experts. You will do the actual research also. The money that you are paying for this tour goes as funds for the research program. Do take this opportunity of a lifetime.
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