In order to have a better understanding of the relationship between ecotourism and LNT, let's think about the definition of ecotourism. Among many definitions about ecotourism, I especially appreciate the definition that The Ecotourism Society gave in 1991: 「Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.」 Another relevant quote from World Conservation Union (IUCN) states, 「Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and accompanying cultural features, both past and present), promotes conservation, has a low visitor impact, and provides for beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local people.」

Following from these definitions, ecotourism has aims which are relatively passive and higher aims, which are more active. Nonetheless, all aims are directed at achieving multiple benefits for tourists, the environment, and local communities. First of all, passive participation of tourists includes their enjoyment and appreciation of nature, which leads to more active participation, such as changing people's core values and behaviours regarding the environment. For the environment, ecotourism leads to a minimization of negative environmental impact from tourism, while also encouraging more active environmental measures, such as conservation and rehabilitation. Finally, ecotourism benefits the community. In a passive way, ecotourism occurs with a minimum disruption of the local life and culture, while in a more active way, local people will share in the social and economic benefits generated by ecotourism.

The concept of LNT builds awareness and respect for our wilderness and increases good contributions to ecotourism.

According to the above definitions, it's easy to show the connection between ecotourism and LNT. Since ecotourism is based on higher ethical goals, it's important to establish guidelines for voluntary behaviours. The guiding principles for ecotourism are classified into categories for each of the 4 different participants: visitors, local communities, travel agencies (guides), and administrators (private sector or government). The 7 principles of LNT show that LNT matches the guidelines of ecotourism for visitors, and it tends to have passive aims, with more focus on respect for local communities and avoidance of damage to the natural environment. Nonetheless, it is a no easy job avoiding damage and destruction of tourist areas. National parks have promoted the idea of LNT since their inception, but the regulations for visitors were usually presented by unfriendly signs of prohibition or restriction. Nowadays, LNT provides complete step by step methods to encourage visitors to Leave No Trace in Nature, making a good contribution to ecotourism.

Kuang-chung Lee

Ph.D. University College London

Associate Professor of Graduate Institute of Ecology and Environmental Education, National Hualien University of Education

• Image: Giraffe