Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2024

First exams 2026

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Ecotourism (HL) (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Revision Note

Alistair Marjot

Written by: Alistair Marjot

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Ecotourism

What is ecotourism?

  • Ecotourism refers to responsible travel to natural areas that:

    • Conserves the environment

    • Sustains the well-being of local communities

    • Involves education

  • It focuses on minimising environmental impact while supporting conservation efforts and improving the livelihoods of people in those areas

  • However, 'ecotourism' is sometimes used as a marketing tool, where tourism companies claim to be environmentally friendly but don't fully commit to sustainable practices

    • This can result in minimal positive impact on conservation efforts while still causing environmental damage and disrupting local communities

    • In many cases, ecotourism falls short of its goals, with profits being prioritised over genuine environmental stewardship

    • As a result, it may lead to overexploitation of natural resources and wildlife disturbance, acting more as 'greenwashing' than true sustainable tourism

Benefits of ecotourism

  • Increased income for local communities: Ecotourism can provide alternative livelihoods by creating jobs in hospitality, guiding, and transportation

  • Funding for conservation: Income from ecotourism can help protect endangered species, restore habitats, and fund protected areas

  • Promotion of biodiversity: Protecting areas for ecotourism can help preserve critical ecosystems and increase species richness

  • Education and awareness: Visitors can learn about biodiversity, environmental challenges, and conservation efforts, raising global awareness of ecological issues

Negative impacts of ecotourism

  • Environmental degradation: Increased tourism can lead to soil erosion, habitat destruction, and pollution from litter, transport, or improper waste disposal

  • Disturbance to wildlife: Tourists may unintentionally disturb animal behaviour, such as nesting or feeding patterns, leading to stress on species

  • Overcrowding and infrastructure pressure: High numbers of visitors can strain local infrastructure

  • Cultural and social impacts: The influx of tourists can sometimes lead to a loss of traditional lifestyles or commodification of indigenous cultures

Case Study

Ecotourism in the Maasai Mara, Kenya

  • The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves

  • It attracts thousands of tourists every year

  • It is located in southwest Kenya and is known for its vast savannah landscapes and the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras

  • The reserve is home to some of the most iconic wildlife species, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, and black rhinos

  • This biodiversity makes it a popular ecotourism destination, with tourists visiting to witness the wildlife and support conservation efforts

Benefits of ecotourism in the Maasai Mara

  1. Economic benefits for local communities: The Maasai people, who have lived in the area for centuries, benefit from jobs as guides, lodge staff, and through the sale of traditional handicrafts

    • A portion of tourism revenue is also used for community development projects, such as building schools and healthcare centres

  2. Wildlife conservation: Revenue generated from park entrance fees and tourism helps fund critical conservation efforts, including anti-poaching patrols and the protection of endangered species like the black rhino

    • This financial support ensures that the ecosystem remains intact and wildlife populations are better monitored and protected

  3. Cultural preservation: Ecotourism can also promote the preservation of Maasai culture, as tourists often show interest in learning about local traditions, dances, and crafts

    • This can encourage the continuation of traditional practices and the sharing of cultural knowledge with people from all over the world

Negative impacts of ecotourism in the Maasai Mara

  1. Overcrowding and environmental degradation: During peak tourist seasons, large numbers of vehicles and tourists can overwhelm the delicate ecosystem

    • Tourists may trample vegetation, disturb animals, and cause soil erosion

    • Overcrowding can also disrupt the migration routes of key species like wildebeest

  2. Conflict with local livelihoods: The expansion of tourism infrastructure (e.g., hotels, roads, and campsites) can lead to the displacement of Maasai communities from their traditional grazing lands

    • As land is increasingly reserved for wildlife and tourism, there is less space for the Maasai to practice traditional livestock grazing

    • This leads to tensions between conservation goals and local livelihoods

  3. Pollution and waste: The rise in tourism also increases pollution, particularly waste from lodges, camps, and vehicles

    • Without proper waste management systems, this pollution can contaminate water sources and harm local wildlife

    • In some cases, irresponsible tourist behaviour (such as littering) can damage the environment or endanger wildlife

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.