Though the precise definition of ecotourism remains ambiguous even within the circles of tourism experts but the simplest and most widely accepted definition of Ecotourism, developed by the Ecotourism Society, USA is: "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well being of local people". The tourism in Gilgit Baltistan is to a large extent based on the natural resources and environment, therefore the protection and preservation of environment and making all tourism activities ‘sustainable’ is of paramount importance. There is general lack of understanding and confusion about the term ‘Ecotourism’ by the stakeholders. This term has become a buzzword and every activity involving nature based tourism. Whether socially and environmentally sustainable or not is termed as ecotourism.
A proper understanding of the term is essential because ecotourism, if not properly planned and managed can do more harm than conventional tourism, because it deals with fragile environments and sensitive cultures. Similarly, the potential benefits that the development of ecotourism in the area can bring to the local communities, and natural environment are not properly understood by the stakeholders and hence little has been done so for development and promotion of ecotourism. There is a lack of coordination between public and private sector for development and promotion of ecotourism and local communities are not interested because presently very few benefits of ecotourism are passed on to them.
The large amount of solid and human waste left by the expeditions on all popular trekking routes and base camps, not only is an eye sore for the tourists, but is also a serious threat to the natural environment.
There is no proper waste disposal system apart from occasional clean-up expeditions in the area.
Majority of the local guides, porters, tour operators and hoteliers are not aware of the environment friendly trekking and mountaineering techniques including, proper waste management, use of alternative fuels etc. There are no guidelines and very few awareness programmes to address this issue.
we should align our activities in line with SDGs indicators to make the world sustainable.
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