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Ecotourism and biodiversity

That ecotourism is inextricably linked to biodiversity and the struggle to secure its long-term survival, follows straightforwardly out of the sheer enjoyment discerning ecotourists draw from visiting untouched natural environments and getting up-close and personal there with charismatic flag-ship species, in the knowledge of course that their visit actively helps safeguarding all upon which their eyes feast. Yet to date, few ecotourism destinations and products are being offered throughout Papua that truly embrace and expand on existing conservation priorities.

Field investigations into the potential occurrence of key endemic species, as well as general literature surveys of regional distribution patterns and levels of endemicity, yield informed decisions on the initial selection and hence ultimate development of ecotourism destinations that are truly meaningful from a conservation priority-setting point of view. Moreover, in order to successfully promote a place, destination managers increasingly are being expected to be able to provide details of biodiversity richness at the species level. These are just two examples of fields of expertise in which we can assist genuine ecotourism entrepreneurs with rapid assessments or detailed field studies in pursuance of integrating biodiversity conservation targets, practices and principles into the design, planning, development, and management of ecotourism destinations and products.

Related links

Read on about our Community Conservation and Ecotourism Agreement for the Orobiai River catchment on Waigeo Island (from www.PapuaExpeditions.com).

Read on about the natural wonders of New Guinea (from www.PapuaExpeditions.com).

Read on about the geopolitical and biogeographical delimitation of Papua (from www.PapuaExpeditions.com).

Read on about the flora and fauna of Papua (from www.PapuaExpeditions.com).

Read on about the birdlife of Papua (from www.PapuaExpeditions.com).

New Guinea is a fantastic island, unique and fascinating. It is an area of incredible varieties of geomorphology, biota, peoples, languages, history, traditions and cultures. Diversity is its prime characteristic whatever the subject of interest. To a biogeographer it is tantalizing, as well as confusing or frustrating when trying to determine the history of its biota. To an ecologist, and to all biologists, it is a happy hunting ground of endless surprises, and unanswered questions. To a conservationist it is like a dream come true, a 'flash-back' of a few centuries, as well as a challenge for the future. (J. L. Gressitt, 1982)