SEE FORUMS (Chapter 18, Page 422)

Critical Thinking - Question 3


Tourism and its effects (for example, pollution from hotels and the impact of boats and tourists on fragile habitats) often clash with conservation efforts. Sometimes, however, tourism can help. The economic impact of banning the hunting of harp seals in eastern Canada has been compensated for, in part, by the influx of tourists who now come to see the seals. Can you think of other examples? What recommendations can you make to minimize the impact of tourism on unspoiled marine environments?

An example that I believe will work is to EDUCATE! Educate by handing out brochures, in languages that the tourists use, explaining the effects on our marine environment while having their fun in our waters. Businesses have brochures readily available to promote their sales on water activities regardless of the damages it causes everyone. People like us who care together with Marine Biologists that are on island and Coastal Resources Management staff should come up with our own educational brochures to be made readily available to tourists.

The recommendation that I will make to minimize the impact of tourism on unspoiled marine environments is to INFORM! Inform tourists the importance of our marine organisms in our daily lives compared to their water sport activities for just a few hours of fun. Suggest to tourists that if being in our ocean to view the many different species of organisms is their passion, then perhaps they can contribute in many ways by becoming a Marine Biologist or by volunteering.