Sustainable Tourism Flashcards

What is 'slow travel' as a sustainable tourism philosophy?

Answer: A travel philosophy emphasizing depth of experience in fewer destinations over longer stays rather than rushing between many sites

Slow travel is a philosophy that prioritizes meaningful, immersive engagement with destinations over rushing to tick off as many sights as possible. Slow travelers tend to stay longer, spend more locally, learn the language, and develop genuine connections with places and people.

What is the purpose of a 'tourism impact assessment' before developing a new tourism project?

Answer: Evaluating the potential environmental, social, and economic effects of a proposed tourism development before proceeding

A tourism impact assessment evaluates the anticipated positive and negative effects of a proposed tourism development on the environment (ecosystems, biodiversity, water), local community (culture, livelihoods, housing), and economy (employment, income distribution, leakage) before construction begins.

What is 'voluntourism' and what are its potential pitfalls?

Answer: Travel that combines tourism with volunteer work, which can harm communities if poorly designed

Voluntourism combines volunteering with tourism, allowing travelers to contribute to local projects while experiencing a destination. However, poorly designed programs can displace local workers, create dependency, deliver low-quality work by unskilled volunteers, and prioritize volunteer experience over community needs.

What are 'regenerative tourism' principles and how do they differ from sustainable tourism?

Answer: Regenerative tourism aims to restore and improve destination environments, going beyond just minimizing harm

Regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability's goal of 'doing less harm' by actively seeking to improve — restore ecosystems, revitalize local cultures, and strengthen communities — leaving a destination in better condition than before the visit.

What is the 'tourism leakage' problem in developing destination economies?

Answer: The proportion of tourism revenue that flows out of the local economy to foreign-owned businesses

Economic leakage in tourism occurs when tourism revenue exits the local destination economy — through profits repatriated by foreign-owned hotels, imported goods consumed by tourists, foreign staff salaries, and overseas marketing costs. In some developing countries, up to 80% of tourist spending leaves the local economy.

What is 'wildlife tourism' and what ethical guidelines govern responsible wildlife experiences?

Answer: Tourism centered on observing or interacting with animals, governed by guidelines requiring animal welfare and conservation outcomes

Wildlife tourism involves observing, interacting with, or experiencing wild or captive animals. Ethical wildlife tourism requires that animal welfare is prioritized, animals are not stressed or harassed, activities contribute to conservation, and local communities benefit.