In recent years, ecotourism has emerged as a powerful force in shaping the mindsets of travelers. As awareness of environmental issues grows, more and more people are seeking travel experiences that not only rejuvenate but also contribute positively to the planet. This shift in consumer behavior is influencing the way the hospitality and tourism sectors operate, driving a movement towards sustainability and responsibility.
Pooja Nataraj, co-founder, The ImPart Collective, explains how this form of travel is transforming consumer expectations. “Ecotourism, by its very nature, directly connects the positive impact of ecosystem services to the traveler. A nature retreat or wildlife lodge offers much-needed rejuvenation and relaxation that city dwellers crave, providing a pause from their frenetic schedules,” she says.
Nataraj emphasizes that ecotourism is not just about recreation; it’s also an educational experience. National Parks, focused on biodiversity conservation and regeneration, offer travelers a deeper understanding of the environment. “Ecotourism is an experience economy that is shaping the fabric of consumer expectations when they travel. Soon, there will be a paradigm shift in the way people travel. Ecology and the environment will be the top priority while making travel decisions,” she adds.
Echoing this sentiment, Ram Pratap Singh, Director, Chambal Safari Lodge highlights the role of ecotourism in fostering responsible and sustainable travel. “The evolution of ecotourism has created opportunities for conscious travelers to travel responsibly and sustainably. They come back better informed and educated about nature,” Singh notes. This growing demand for sustainable travel options is reshaping the industry and pushing it towards more ethical practices.
However, the hospitality and tourism sectors are grappling with the challenges posed by this shift. Nataraj acknowledges that while some progress has been made, the industry in India is still far from ready. “The hospitality industry at large in India is far from being ready for the challenge. Other destinations around the world, such as Africa and South America, have a greater affinity and potential due to this shift and greater demand for sustainable tourism,” she explains.
Nevertheless, Nataraj points out that wildlife lodges and tour operators in India, focused on promoting conservation-oriented tourism, have taken the lead in positioning the country as a promising ecotourism destination. She suggests that government mandates on reporting and mandatory disclosures will be crucial in addressing this challenge. “Currently, SEBI has mandated only top-tiered listed companies for mandatory disclosures. India should follow suit from the EU’s CSRD and nudge all companies from various industries to begin voluntary disclosures,” she says.
Singh further elaborates on the sector’s response to these challenges, noting that the transition towards sustainability and climate compatibility is being driven by two key influences. “The first is due to regulations that would come into effect in 2030 and 2035 as per COP 28, where India is also a signatory. The industry is working towards globally acceptable reporting and compliance within the given timeline,” he explains. However, Singh argues that the more significant driver of change is customer behavior. “The demand for more sustainable and ethical travel options is leading to a faster move towards sustainability at all levels in the tourism ladder,” he concludes.
As ecotourism continues to gain traction, it is clear that the hospitality and tourism sectors will need to adapt to meet the evolving expectations of travelers. This shift towards sustainability is not just a trend but a fundamental change in how people perceive and engage with travel, promising a more responsible and environmentally conscious future for the industry.
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