Tourism and possible problems

An increase in mass tourism that is not controlled responsibly can ruin areas of natural beauty. Tourism can damage coral reefs, pollute beaches and destroy the habitats of wildlife as roads and hotels are built. Ironically, damage to these natural resources is likely to reduce future numbers of visitors. Another negative effect is that the increasing numbers of aeroplane flights are a major cause of global warming.

 

A second problem is that the tourist resorts are frequently owned by large Western companies and all too often the profits earned from tourism go straight into the bank accounts of these companies. Moreover, the well-paid managerial positions are often held by foreigners, and the wages given to local hotel employees are usually very low. Where this is the case very little money enters the local economy at all. By purchasing souvenirs, food and other goods from local people you can help to spread the benefits of tourism.

 

Finally, tourism can have an adverse effect on local culture, traditions and the way of life. Large numbers of tourists can undermine traditional beliefs, values and customs and in particular risk commercialising the very culture that they find so interesting. And where these tourists are insensitive to local traditions their behaviour can cause great offence. 

 

Global Eye has a great feature on tourism with detailed information, interactive maps and case studies. more>>>

 

The Rough Guide to a Better World has an ethical tourism section that nicely outlines the key issues. more>>>

 

The Global Code of Ethics for Tourism outlines nine principles intended to govern worldwide tourism. The principles give a good indication of some of the great benefits and also potential problems of tourism. more>>> 

 

At responsibletravel.com you can read about the problems with mass tourism and the reasons that responsible travel is desirable.