Warm up

Certainly! Here are some warm-up questions you can use to initiate a lesson on eco-tourism:

1. What comes to mind when you hear the term “eco-tourism”?
2. Have you ever been on an eco-friendly or nature-based trip? If so, where did you go, and what was it like?
3. Why do you think eco-tourism is becoming more popular in recent years?
4. How do you think eco-tourism differs from traditional tourism?
5. What do you think are the benefits of eco-tourism for both travelers and the environment?
6. Can you name a few natural attractions or wildlife reserves that are popular for eco-tourism?
7. Do you believe that eco-tourism can have a positive impact on conservation efforts? Why or why not?
8. What are some ways in which travelers can be more responsible and sustainable when engaging in eco-tourism activities?
9. Have you ever participated in any eco-friendly activities, such as wildlife safaris, hiking, or bird watching?
10. How would you define the concept of “responsible travel,” and why is it important in eco-tourism?

Green vocabulary

Match the words and phrases with their definitions

Use the words

More useful language

• green travel – eco-travel
• sustainable travel – able to continue without causing damage to the environment
• a hybrid taxi – a car with a petrol engine and an electric motor
• renewable energy – form of energy that can be produced as quickly as it is used
• an environmental credential – grounds or qualifications for trust
• a low flush toilet – a type of toilet designed to use less water per flush compared to traditional toilets. It’s also sometimes called a “low-flow toilet”
• low power light – refers to a light source that consumes a minimal amount of electrical energy, producing less light output compared to higher-power lights
• mom-and-pop (US) – mum and dad
• touche – used to admit that someone has made a good point against you in an argument or discussion
• chances are – an idiom in English that is used to express the likelihood or probability of something happening. It suggests that there is a good possibility or a reasonable expectation that a particular outcome will occur

Watch the video

Before watching the video, read the following statements. After the video, you’ll have to say if they’re true or false.

• Green travel is the same thing as sustainable travel. 
• For the environment direct flights are worse. 
• You may offset your carbon emissions by donating money to Greenpeace. 
• Many hotels are going green and you can check them out on the special websites. 
• Taking short showers doesn’t really help reduce water consumption.
• Travelling to a place traditionally used by indigenous communities makes sure that you choose a tour operator that works towards the preservation of these communities.  
• It’s not necessary to support local industry. 

True or false? Group the sentences.

Reading

Read the article and discuss the questions afterwards.

Eco-Tourism: Exploring the World Responsibly

When it comes to traveling, there’s more to it than just visiting popular tourist destinations. Eco-tourism, also known as ecological tourism, is a growing trend that focuses on exploring the world responsibly while minimizing our impact on the environment. It’s all about immersing ourselves in nature, learning about local cultures, and supporting sustainable practices.

What is Eco-Tourism?

Eco-tourism is a form of travel that promotes environmental conservation and community well-being. It encourages tourists to engage in activities that have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and participating in conservation efforts, travelers can make a difference while enjoying their adventures.

Why Choose Eco-Tourism?

Eco-tourism offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of our planet while preserving it for future generations. Here are some reasons why you should consider eco-tourism for your next trip:

1. Preserving Natural Resources: By practicing sustainable travel habits, we can help protect fragile ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and natural resources. This ensures that future generations can enjoy the same wonders we do today.
2. Supporting Local Communities: Eco-tourism often involves staying in locally-owned accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing handmade crafts from artisans. This helps stimulate the local economy and empowers communities to preserve their cultural heritage.
3. Learning and Cultural Exchange: Eco-tourism provides opportunities to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. By engaging with local communities, we gain a deeper understanding of their challenges and contribute to cultural exchange.
4. Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Many eco-tourism destinations offer thrilling outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, and more. These experiences allow us to connect with nature on a deeper level and create lasting memories.

Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel

Here are some tips to help you become a responsible eco-tourist:

1. Choose Sustainable Accommodations: Look for hotels or lodges that have implemented eco-friendly practices such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and water-saving initiatives.
2. Support Local Conservation Efforts: Participate in volunteer programs or donate to local organizations working towards environmental conservation.
3. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a safe distance and never feed or disturb them. Remember that we are visitors in their natural habitat.
4. Reduce Waste: Carry a reusable water bottle, say no to single-use plastics, and dispose of waste properly.
5. Learn About Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with the customs and traditions of the places you visit to show respect for the local culture.

Remember, every small action counts when it comes to eco-tourism. By making conscious choices during our travels, we can contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the wonders our planet has to offer.

Happy eco-traveling! 🌍✈️

Based on: Wikipedia – Eco-Tourism: National Geographic – What is Eco-Tourism?

Now answer the questions.

1. What is eco-tourism and how does it differ from traditional tourism?
2. How can eco-tourism contribute to the preservation of natural resources?
3. What are some benefits of choosing eco-tourism for travelers?
4. What are the key principles of eco-friendly travel?
5. How can tourists support local communities while practicing eco-tourism?
6. What are some examples of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed during eco-tourism trips?
7. How can travelers minimize their impact on wildlife and their habitats?
8. What are some tips for finding sustainable accommodations during eco-tourism trips?
9. How does eco-tourism promote cultural exchange and learning?
10. Why is it important to familiarize oneself with local customs and traditions when practicing eco-tourism?

For you to check

If you’re looking for eco-friendly travel destinations, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the top destinations that prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation:

1. Lake Garda, Italy: Home to one of the country’s greenest hotels, Lefay Resort and Spa, which offsets 100% of its CO2 emissions and uses renewable energy sources.
2. Arosa, Switzerland: The charming alpine resort village is home to Hotel Valsana, Switzerland’s first hotel to be heated by an “ice battery” – an energy recovery system that reuses surplus heat energy that would otherwise have been lost to the surrounding environment.
3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Several properties on the islands are committed to protecting the fragile environment and offsetting the environmental cost of getting there.
4. Bahamas: The islands have implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives such as banning single-use plastics and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
5. Pangulasian Island, Philippines: The island is home to a luxury resort that has implemented sustainable practices such as using solar power and rainwater harvesting.
6. Werfenweng, Weissensee, Styria and Vienna, Austria: These destinations have been recognized for their “green mobility” and eco-conscious practices by the Alpine Pearl tourism association.
7. Catalonia, Spain: The region has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives such as promoting sustainable tourism and reducing carbon emissions.
8. Costa Rica: The country is known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism, with many hotels and resorts implementing sustainable practices such as using renewable energy sources and supporting local conservation efforts.

These destinations offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of our planet while preserving it for future generations. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and participating in conservation efforts, travelers can make a difference while enjoying their adventures.

Happy travels! 🌍✈️

Based on: Lonely Planet – 8 destinations for an eco-friendly escape in 2022: World Travel Guide – The 20 greenest destinations on Earth

Vocabulary of the lesson