On Your Right

Today’s lesson is about eco tourism, which has been around since the late 80’s. Defined, it is when a person or group goes to visit an area which has diversity of plants and ecology. This can be very broad, which people can go to study a particular plant or ecosystem as a whole. Included in the definition on Wikipedia, it is said that this type of tourism is meant to enhance ones understanding of the plants systems while becoming a better member in it. I don’t particularly believe this to be completely true because also listed are several drawbacks to this type of tourism.

Essentially the criteria of ecotourism are these:
· conservation of biological diversity and cultural diversity through ecosystem protection
· promotion of sustainable use of biodiversity
· share of socio-economic benefits with local communities through informed consent and participation
· increase in environmental and cultural knowledge,
· affordability and reduced waste
· minimization of its own environmental impact

Some of the negatives are that many companies that provided this type of tourism, practice irresponsible techniques which ultimately hurt the environment. Also it is concluded on many ecotourism websites, that this boom in this type of tourism, has caused unforeseen consequences in its degradation of my ecosystems and wildlife. Another factor is that, while one of the tenets is to help the local population, many ecotourism trips are put on by outside companies, who generally profit while the locals are left out. There are many other problems, but with more attention, these can be avoided and eliminated for the future, so that the true idea of ecotourism will finally come true.

As for information about me, there is nothing new to report because last night I did not go out because I was packing for the weekend. This should be a great and exhausting trip, allowing the class to get out of San Jose to experience the true beauty of Costa Rica. Ill have updates and pictures on Monday when I return from all of the activities that are planned and provide some type of schedule for the trip to the Pacific on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Peace for now homies!

Today’s Song: Paper Planes by M.I.A