Cover

Contents

Foreword

Acknowledgments

Introduction

1 What is Ecotourism?

Introduction

How Big is Ecotourism

Types of Ecotourism Development

Range of Ecotourism Activities

Benefits for Local Communities

Economic Benefits

Environmental Benefits

Intangible Benefits

Conclusion

2 What is an Ecotourist?

Profile of an Ecotourist

Roy Morgan Value Segments

Age

Education and Income

Environmental Behaviour of Ecotourists

Accommodation Preferences

Seasonality

Potential vs Actual Ecotourists

The International Ecotourist

Motivators

Information and Education Needs of Ecotourist

Verbal Interpretation

Static Interpretation

Pre and Post Experience Information

How Important is Interpretation to the Ecotourist

Direct Involvement

Feedback

Conclusion

3 Working with the Local Community

What is a "Community"

Community Support/Participation

Difficulties in Community Participation

Local Government

Influences on Council Decision-Making

How to Approach Local Council

Indigenous Communities

Protocol and Decision-Making Dynamics

The Pitfalls of Indigenous Tourism

Ecotourism and Culture

Special Events—the Ultimate Community Tourism Activity

Strategies to Develop a Special Event

Networking

Conclusion

4 Working in the Environment

Managing the Resource

Carrying Capacity

Minimising Environmental and Social Conflicts

World Heritage Listing

Tour Planning and Implementation

Minimising Energy and Water Use in Tour Operations

Sewage and Waste Disposal on Tour

Minimising Environmental Impacts on Tour

Partnerships in Managing Tour Impacts

Land Care

Conclusion

5 Working with the Environment

Building Design, Construction and Operation

Building Regulations and Environmental Impact Assessment

Marine Development

Construction of Access Routes, Tracks and Boardwalks

Energy

Waste Minimisation

Water Conservation

Environmental Ethics and Regulations

Environmental Plan

Conclusion

6 Making it Work

Starting a Tourism Business

Management

The Business Plan

Networking

Marketing

The Five Ps

Marketing Plan

Research

Product Development

Promotion

Cooperative Marketing

International Marketing

Environmental Policy as a Marketing Tool

Codes of Practice and Accreditation

Ecotourism Accreditation

Risk Management

Conclusion

7 Making it Pay

Distribution

Domestic

International

Booking Sources

Distribution and Booking Networks

Commissions

Packaging

Some Broad Legal Considerations

Consumer Protection

Use of Confidential Information

Copyright Protection

Contracts

Public Liability

When is a Business Liable?

Your Liability on Government Land

European Union (EC) Directive

Conclusion

References and Further Reading

Appendix 1

Codes of Practice and Tips for Operators

Appendix 2

Sample Business Plan for "Ecotours Pty Ltd"

Appendix 3

Contacts