Eco resorts are a type of tourism accommodation that focuses on sustainable practices and environmental conservation. They aim to provide a meaningful and authentic travel experience that has a positive impact on the environment and local culture. Eco resorts come in a variety of forms, including treehouses, yurts, caves, domes, and lodges, and often offer a range of activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in nature.
One of the main principles of eco resorts is the use of sustainable materials and practices. This may include the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and the implementation of water conservation measures. Eco resorts may also prioritize the use of locally sourced materials and support local businesses and communities.
Another key principle of eco resorts is the promotion of environmental conservation. This may include the protection of natural habitats and wildlife, as well as the implementation of waste reduction and recycling programs. Eco resorts may also offer educational opportunities for guests to learn about the local environment and its unique features.
Permaculture, a design philosophy that seeks to create self-sustaining systems that mimic the natural environment, is often incorporated into the design and operation of eco resorts. Permaculture principles include the use of natural resources efficiently, the creation of diverse ecosystems, and the promotion of natural patterns and processes. These principles can be applied to the design of eco resorts in a variety of ways, including the use of native plants and the integration of natural elements into the built environment.
The best eco resorts are those that effectively balance environmental conservation with the needs and desires of guests. This may include the provision of comfortable and well-equipped accommodation, as well as a range of activities and amenities that allow guests to fully experience the local environment. Eco resorts that successfully incorporate permaculture principles and make a positive contribution to the local community are likely to be the most successful and sustainable.
Overall, eco resorts offer a unique and authentic travel experience that allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts of modern amenities. By prioritizing sustainable practices and environmental conservation, eco resorts can contribute to the long-term health and well-being of local communities and ecosystems.
By now, we all have a sense of what ecotourism means. However, words like sustainability enc eco have been flung around too much by different groups and have begun to lose their original meanings.
Eco historically has referred to the environment. But, like how the word sustainability probably had original meanings in the environment, ecosystems have increasingly come to represent part of the economy at the expense of … (expense well now I am using a market metaphor, aren’t I). The point is, not everything needs to get consumed into market systems to have value.
Sustainable Eco-Resorts accessed from https://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB_DC24679.pdf
Ecotourism wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotourism
