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First, take three minutes to read this article:
Ecotourism is a new form of tourism that supports the preservation of natural environments. In recent years, it has been widely promoted as a sustainable way to protect the environment while simultaneously supporting local communities. Many experts argue that it is a responsible alternative to traditional forms of tourism.
One major advantage of ecotourism is that it generates revenue for environmental conservation efforts. Many ecotourism sites charge entrance fees, which help to fund national parks, wildlife reserves, and other protected sites. These funds are crucial for maintaining such areas as they can be used to prevent illegal activities such as deforestation and poaching, and ensure that biodiversity is preserved for future generations. Without the financial support provided by ecotourism, many conservation programs would struggle to remain operational.
Another significant benefit is that ecotourism creates job opportunities for local residents who can start careers in related professions. When they can earn a stable income from tourism, local populations become more invested in protecting the environment and maintaining natural areas. Additionally, ecotourism reduces the dependence of local economies on destructive industries such as logging or mining, which are often harmful to both the environment and the long-term well-being of the community.
Ecotourism also plays a role in environmental education and awareness. Tourists who visit ecotourism sites learn about local ecosystems, endangered species, and conservation efforts. Many tour operators provide educational programs and guided experiences that help visitors understand the importance of preserving the natural world. As a result, tourists often leave with a stronger commitment to sustainability, which can influence their choices in other aspects of their lives, leading to broader support for conservation efforts among people all over the world.
Next, listen to the following lecture:
You have twenty minutes to answer the following question. You can see the article as you write your essay. You may not listen to the lecture again.
Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they oppose specific points made in the reading passage.
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Sample Response
Here is a sample essay:
The reading and the lecture are both about eco-tourism. The author suggests that this is a beneficial alternative to typical forms of tourism. In contrast, the lecturer highlights some possible disadvantages of eco-tourism.
First, the author notes that eco-tourism helps generate revenue that can be used to maintain natural sites and prevent illegal activities like poaching. Without this money, important conservation programs might come to an end. On the other hand, the lecturer notes that most money ends up going to private investors and business owners instead of being used to fund conservation efforts. She claims that such businesses often care more about making money than they do about protecting the environment.
Second, according to the article, eco-tourism creates job opportunities for local residents who then become more interested in protecting the environment. The author also claims that it reduces dependence on harmful industries like logging and mining. The lecturer, however, mentions that eco-tourism sometimes creates low-paying and seasonal employment. Moreover, she says that if tourism is reduced due to an unforeseen event like a natural disaster there could be serious implications for the local economy.
Finally, the article says that eco-tourism can help to educate visitors about important topics related to conservation. As a result, tourists go home with a commitment to sustainability that might impact many aspects of their lives. The professor disagrees with this, and notes that many tourists consider their trips nothing more than normal vacations. Not only that, but they sometimes unintentionally damage sensitive sites and leave behind waste. They might even alter the behavior of animals by making them accustomed to human contact.