Scientist explains key elements of ecotourism

Quality ecotourism requires both captivating wildlife destinations and qualified specialists who can help visitors truly experience them, Pavel Geshtovt, Deputy Director General of the Scientific and Practical Center for Bioresources of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus , said during a press conference at BelTA’s press center on 26 May.

“It is good when the volume of services provided grows, when there is an influx of foreign guests, and new jobs are created. But fostering a tender, caring attitude toward the nature of your own country is, in my view, the main goal of ecotourism,” he added.

“Ecotourism is the presentation of wildlife in its natural habitat. It comes in many forms. Ecological trails serve their purpose: visitors use them to explore flora and fauna and read the information signs installed along the way. However, it is important to understand that wildlife is dynamic: seasonal animal movements, the period of raising offspring, and other factors alter species’ behavior. Therefore, ecotourism cannot be confined to rigid trails or routes. For true immersion, a longer stay, a full day or more, is required, so that a person can truly feel and understand the natural environment,” the speaker explained.

The key element of quality ecotourism is not only the presence of interesting natural sites, but also the availability of professionals who can showcase them, Pavel Geshtovt noted. “This is not so simple. To understand wildlife, one must not only know plant and animal biology but also spend extended periods in the wild observing, monitoring the situation, tracking where animals are and where they move. At the moment, there are few people who can howl with a wolf or organize filming of a capercaillie at its mating ground. It is extremely important to increase the number of people capable of providing such services. In my view, it is crucial to create conditions that will encourage specialists to pursue ecotourism. This work is quite unique and demanding. You have to be a fan, a deeply passionate person, and take the initiative to create a quality product that tourists will want,” he emphasized.