The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people". Villages, communities, family, tribes and individuals have engaged small scale eco tourism or community based tourism type activities in. Community ecotourism represents one of the few sustainable development options for local communities located in isolated areas of incredible natural diversity. Ecotourism helps local communities generate additional sources of income, and promotes the preservation of their ancient traditions while protecting the environment. However there are challenges and constraints associate with managing a community ecotourism enterprise sustainably. Challenges often experienced in the region are lack of community participation, inventory and assessment of attractions – what are the attractions offered by the community to tourists; Establishing genuine objectives, not driven by personal motives and greed; Impact assessment and analysis – need to be conducted thoroughly, Preparing proper business plan, Preparing proper marketing / promotional plan, Implementing long-term sustainable management. Constraints includes accessibility to the Market, support from potential outside stakeholders, lack of capacity to run the enterprise, and community politics. Collaborating with the Department of Tourism and Hospitality at the USP, The South Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO), the Certificate in Eco Tourism could add value to the capacity building initiatives in Community based tourism in the region and the TS311 course offered at the University. Special topic designed short courses, and practical manual guide on ecotourism will also be developed. The thematic areas in the course would include introduction to sustainable development, establishing a community ecotourism business, and managing it sustainability.
Main Activities:
Develop certificate course modules, develop a ecotourism “DIY” handbook and a develop a Practical Training Manual.
