How Does Ecotourism Contribute to Global Wellness?

Ecotourism tackles the two facets of environmental wellness: helping to conserve the environment and by improving individual wellbeing.

Environmental wellness entails making a positive impact on the environment while enhancing overall individual wellbeing. Subsequently, this article will expound on how this can be achieved with eco-tourism.

Ecotourism promotes environmental preservation

Firstly, Ecotourism promotes environmental protection as it encourages sustainable travel practices, minimising environmental degradation in local communities and natural habitats. By highlighting sustainable practices, it raises awareness of the influence our daily actions have on the environment. This makes us think twice before taking needlessly long showers or overindulging at the hotel buffet, as we are more mindful of how our actions can contribute to the preservation or degradation of the environment.

This heightened awareness then spills over into our day-to-day life, where we can make a conscious effort to help conserve the environment. Participating in activities like guided nature tours or joining wildlife refuges to gain a better understanding and appreciation on the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Ecotourism inspires us to not only incorporate more eco-friendly habits during our travels but also support wildlife conservation efforts, thus helping protect wildlife and ecosystems. Contributing to environmental preservation can also give us a sense of fulfilment, knowing that our actions have a positive impact on the environment. 

Ecotourism enhances our welfare  

Secondly, Ecotourism contributes to our mental well being as being surrounded by nature can help us unwind and destress.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, rather than holing up in your room, step outside and immerse yourself in nature to calm your moods and have some peace of mind. Spending time in nature and an eco-friendly environment allows us the space to declutter our thoughts and get away from the hubbub of city life and all its trappings.

Taking a breather from staring at our phones and laptops to enjoy greenery can enhance mental clarity, improving our capacity to make more informed decisions in our life and even improve our concentration.

Furthermore, being outdoors and “touching some grass”, as the Gen Z might say, helps us combat loneliness by providing opportunities for social interactions as people tend to frequent the same spots to enjoy the outdoors.

Written by: Chong Tien Ee

09/2024

References

Laville, S. (2021, December 20). Contact with nature in cities reduces loneliness, study shows. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/20/contact-with-nature-cities-reduces-loneliness-study-mental-health

The Ohio State University. (2021, January 13). Environmental wellness: Healthy world, healthy you. Ohio 4-H Journal. https://u.osu.edu/4hjournal/2021/01/13/environmental-wellness-healthy-world-healthy-you/ 

University of Nebraska Omaha. (n.d.). Environmental wellness tips. President’s Wellness Committee. https://www.unomaha.edu/student-life/presidents-wellness-committee/environmental-wellness-tips.php