EcoCurrents Edition 26

Water
Conservation Water
Conservation
Tips for
Responsible
Travelers
Best Practices and Tips
for Ecolodges:
Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Maho Bay Camps
Lapa Rios Ecolodge
Resources on Sustainable
Water Management
Cross-Cultural Native
Fibre Weavers Project
The Green Guide l
to the Mexican Caribbean v e
r a
Special Report: Community e T
Based Ecotourism in Mongolia a b l
s ta in
dS u
s a n
o m m u n itie
U n i t i n g C o n s e r va t i o n , C
 EcoCurrents

Dear TIES Members,

As you’ve probably already noticed, TIES’ EcoCurrents has undergone sig-
nificant redesign. We are very excited to present to you the first edi-
tion of the new and improved EcoCurrents, the eMagazine for TIES’ glo-
bal ecotourism network. The overall theme for EcoCurrents in 2008 is
sustainable use and management of resources in ecotourism. We are fo-
cusing not only on the natural resources that power ecotourism initiatives
– water, energy, agriculture and forestry resources – but also on the devel-
opment of human, social and cultural resources through capacity building.

Water is undoubtedly one of the most essential resources sustain-

ing and enriching our lives, and thus naturally plays a crucial role in
ecotourism – whether it be in a coastal area or desert community.

Tourism can have direct and indirect impacts on water resourc-

es: Water usage by tourists may put a strain on local residents’
need for water, and some tourist activities may lead to water pollu-
tion. On the other hand, access to safe drinking water, a fundamen-
tal need for all human beings, is among the top priorities for any traveler.

Using the core principles of ecotourism as the guideline, we encour-

age all our members to approach water conservation issues from both glo-
bal and local perspectives – by continuing to seek ways to address the TIES Principles of Ecotourism
water scarcity, access, and health problems, and by taking actions to • minimize impact
use and manage water resources in a responsible manner every day. • build environmental and cultural aware-
ness and respect
Ecotourism businesses and organizations, as well as responsi- • provide positive experiences for both
visitors and hosts
ble travelers around the world, have a unique opportunity to edu- • provide direct financial benefits for
cate visitors, employees and community members about the impor- conservation
tance of water conservation and sustainable water management. • provide financial benefits and empow-
erment for local people
We hope that the examples featured in this edition will in- • raise sensitivity to host countries’ po-
litical, environmental, and social climate.
spire you to action, and ask that you share your ideas and oth- (TIES, 1990)
er innovative examples, as well as your comments and feedback
on EcoCurrents, by sending a letter to: editor@ecotourism.org.

Ayako Ezaki
Editor

Next Edition (July 2008) / Alternative and renewable energy use for sustainable tourism development.

2 | ecotourism.org
 EcoCurrents

In This Issue
6
Water Conservation Initiatives at Sukau
Rainforest Lodge
Albert Teo

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle Water Conservation

Maho Bay Camps & Tips for Responsible

10
Estate Concordia Preserve Travelers

8
Useful Resources on Cross-Cultural Native
Sustainable Water Man- Fibre Weavers Project,
agement
11 Annie Vanderwyk
12
Water Conservation and Water Saving
Devices for Ecolodges
Karen Lewis
14

18 The Green Guide to the Mexican Caribbean

MEXICONSERVACIÓN

20
special report: A Case Study in Community-
Based Tourism with Nomads
Katrina Shum

ecotourism.org | 3
 EcoCurrents

EcoCurrents is the quarterly e-magazine of The Inter-

The “Traveler’s Palm” featured in
our logo is a symbol of the role nature
plays in sustaining humanity. The
palm served as a life line to weary
travelers for centuries. The plant,
native to Madagascar, is an excellent
source of water as it stores water in
it’s leaf folds, flowers, and hollow leaf
bases (which hold up to a quart/liter
of water), and grows to be around
25 feet tall and faces east-west,
thus serving as beckoning compass.
national Ecotourism Society (TIES), featuring current in-
dustry trends, best practice examples and critical issues
in ecotourism and responsible travel. As the world’s
oldest and largest international ecotourism associa-
tion, TIES seeks to be the global source of knowledge
and advocacy uniting communities, conservation,
and sustainable travel. As a non-profit industry as-
sociation, TIES serves its members in over 90 countries.
TIES members of all levels receive the EcoCur-
rents e-Magazine as part of their membership
benefits. To learn more about TIES’ member-
ship levels and benefits, see www.ecotourism.
org or contact: membership@ecotourism.org.

TIES Staff: Jon Bruno, Director of Finance • Mikael Castro, Director of Special Events • Christina Cavaliere, Director of
Training and Education • Ayako Ezaki, Director of Communications • Ferdinand Weps, Director of Membership & Operations

TIES Interns & Volunteers: Natalie Ehrlich, Communications Assistant •

Yuta Kinjo, Communications Intern • Arlene Levy, DC Eco-Tour Coordinator

TIES Board of Directors: Kelly Bricker, Chair • Tony Charters, Vice Chair • Andrew Fairley, Treasurer • Ri-
chard Denman, Secretary • Rajiv Bhartari • Sylvie Blangy • Chandra de Silva • Glenn Jampol • Karen Lewis
• Hitesh Mehta • Ravi Ruparel • Keith Sproule • Wolfgang Strasdas • Masaru Takayama • Jan Wigsten • Carolyn Wild

Ecotourism: “Responsible travel to natural

areas that conserves the environment and
improves the well-being of local people.”
(TIES, 1990)
4 | ecotourism.org
 EcoCurrents

Ecotourism Associations
around the World
TIES Association Members
Europe: Business and the Environment linked through Small Scale Tourism (BESST) • Ecotourism Norway • Ecotourisme France • Eco-
turismo Italia • Swedish Ecotourism Society • Tilos Park Association, Greece

Eastern Europe & Central Asia: Association of Ecotourism in Romania (AER) • Armenian Ecotourism Association • Belarusian Association
of Agro and Ecotourism • Central Balkan Kalofer Ecotourism Association • Estonian Ecotourism Association • Kamchatka Ecotourism
Society • Murghab Ecotourism Association (META), Tajikistan

Middle East & North Africa: Iran Ecotourism Society • Israeli Ecotourism Society

Sub-Saharan Africa: Benin Ecotourism Concern (ECO-BENIN) • Ecotourism Society of Ehiopia • Ecotourism Society of Nigeria • Ecotour-
ism Kenya • Iringa Ecotourism Society • Nigeria Ecotourism Foundation

South Asia: Chitral Association for Mountain Area Tourism (CAMAT) • Discover Nepal • Ecotourism Society of Sri Lanka • Ecotourism
Society Pakistan • Ecotourism and Conservation Society of Sikkim (ECOSS) • Himalayan EcoTourism Society • Sri Lanka Ecotourism
Foundation

South East Asia: Cambodia Community-Based Ecotourism Network (CCBEN) • Ecotourism Laos • Indonesian Ecotourism Network
(INDECON) • Japan Ecolodge Association (ECOLA) • Japan Ecotourism Society • Kunigami Tourism Association (KUTA) - Okinawa, Japan
• Mongolian Ecotourism Society • National Ecotourism Center, Japan • Taiwan Ecotourism Association (TEA) • Thai Ecotourism &
Adventure Travel Association

Oceania: Aboriginal Tourism Australia (ATA) • Ecotourism Australia • Ecotourism NZ • Fiji Ecotourism Association

North America: Alaska Wilderness Recreation & Tourism Association • BC Wilderness Tourism Association • Green Tourism Association
• Hawaii Ecotourism Association • La Ruta de Sonora Ecotourism Association • Mesoamerican Ecotourism Alliance (MEA) • Society for
Ethical Ecotourism Southwest Florida • The Ontario Ecotourism Society (TOES), Canada

Cental America & the Caribbean: Asociación Ecoturismo Guatemala • Belize Ecotourism Association (BETA) • Camara Nacional de
Ecoturismo de Costa Rica (CANAECO) • Mexican Association of Adventure Tourism & Ecotourism (AMTAVE) • Dominican Sustainable
Tourism Organization (ODTS)

South America: Asociación Argentina de Ecoturismo y Aventura • La Asociación Ecuatoriana de Ecoturismo (ASEC) • EcoBrasil

TIES is proud to serve our national, regional, and local Association members. Providing the vital links between governments, NGOs,
businesses and citizens, our partners in ecotourism associations are a crucial part of our efforts to further TIES’ mission. We offer
complimentary Association-level membership to non-profit, non-governmental and multi-stakeholder associations with primary
focus on ecotourism and sustainable travel. For more information, contact: associations@ecotourism.org

ecotourism.org | 5
 EcoCurrents

Water Conservation Initiatives at

Sukau Rainforest Lodge
BY ALBERT TEO

S ukau Rainforest Lodge is a 20- heavy rainfall provide a steady

room ecolodge in the jungle of source of clean drinking water.
Borneo, Malaysia. Located one To ensure regular supply of clean wa-
hour by speed boat up Sabah’s long- ter, high quality corrugated med-
est river, Kinabatangan River, the al roofing was used to collect
lodge opened in 1995. It is100% self- rainwater which is filtered and chlo-
sufficient on water and was only re- rinated for kitchen and guest rooms. Further educational
cently connected to local power grid. tips from the Sukau
During the dry seasons river water is Rainforest Lodge are
available at
Water Supply also used by pumping the water through
a series of water tanks, where sedi- Frequently Asked
Being located in the rainfor- ments are removed at different lev- Questions: www.su-
est, the frequent periods of els before the final filtration process. kau.com/public/com-
ponents.asp
Hot water is supplied by 2 units of 132 gal- Green Policies: www.
lons of hot water solar heating systems. sukau.com/news/de-
tails.asp?newsid=58
Conservation Practices in Guest
Rooms
To minimize water usage at the
lodge, all towels and linens laun-
dry are sent to Sandakan for cleaning.

Unless requested, we do not replace

towels and linens for a two-day stay.

Stakeholder Education

Part of our responsibilities is to edu-

cate the local community, guides, man-
agers and tourists on the environment
management policies of the company.

Guests are encouraged to conserve water

especially by minimizing flushing of toilets
and turning off the taps when brushing,
shampooing or soaping.

6 | ecotourism.org
 EcoCurrents

Sukau Rainforest Lodge Water Usage Guidelines

Activitiy Method Qty. Used Method to be Qty. required Qty. saved (Ltr.)
adopted (Ltr.) adopted (litr.)
Brushing Teeth Running tap for 5 45 Tumbler or Glass 0.5 44.5
min.

Washing Hands Running tap for 2 18 Half filled wash 2 16

min. basin
Shaving Running tap for 2 18 Shaving mug 0.25 17.75
min.
Shower Letting shower 90 Wet down tap off, 20 70
run while soaping soap up, rinse off
under shower.
Flushing Toilet Using old-fash- 13.5 or more Short flush liquid 4.5/9.0 4.0 or more
ioned large-capac- waste/ full flush
ity cistern. solid waste
Watering Plants Running hose for 120 Water can 5 115
5 min.
Washing Floor Running hose for 200 Mop and bucket 18 182
5 min.

Washing Car Running hose for 400 Buckets (2) 18 382

10 min.

Part of our responsibilities is to educate the

local community, guides, managers and tour-
ists on the environment management policies
of the company.

Albert Teo is Managing Director of Sakau Rainforest Lodge. Albert,

President and Founder of Borneo Eco Tours, built Sukau Rainforest
Lodge to complement good ecotour experiences with a quality
ecolodge, and to provide great wildlife watching opportunitiess
while demonstrating sustainable building and operating principles.

Photos courtesy of Sakau Rainforest Lodge

Left page: (top) Rainwater Tanks; (bottom) Riverwater Tanks

ecotourism.org | 7
 EcoCurrents
Reduce, Reuse & Recycle
at Maho Bay Camps &
Estate Concordia Preserve
A ll staff and visitors play impor-
tant parts in the many conser-
vation successes by Maho Bay
Camps & Estate Concordia Preserve.
Reducing fresh water consumption:
Fresh water is the most precious com-
modity on islands like St. John, U.S.
Virgin Islands that have no lakes, aqui-
fers or permanent surface water supply.
At Maho Bay Resorts, we pay particu-
lar attention to this issue. Our aver-
age water consumption per guest/day
is 25 gallons, whereas most resorts use
as much as 300 gallons per guest/day.
Spring action faucets and showers pre-
vent waste. Low-flush toilets save up to
3 gallons per flush. Our first clean and
odor-free waterless urinals, made by
The Waterless Company, were installed
in 1997. We save 12,000 to 15,000 gal-
lons per year with this new technology.
8 | ecotourism.org
We carefully monitor water use every
day. Running toilets (a common problem)
can drain as much as 2,000 gallons of wa-
ter a day. At Maho Bay Camps, we ask
our guests to shower only during certain
Photos courtesy of
Maho Bay Camps
(www.Maho.org)
Left page: Living in
the trees at one of
times of the day to distribute the demand. Maho’s tent cottages
Utilizing ainwater Right page: (top)
Guests on Maho Bay
Camps deck; (bot-
At our resorts, we make every effort to tom) Solar panels
augment our water supply by collect- powering Concordia
ing rain water in cisterns, conserving as Eco-Tents
much as possible, and by treating and
using our own wastewater for irrigation.
Rain Water catchments on almost every
building at Maho Bay Camps collect about
345,000 gallons of rainwater a year. This
supplies water to the laundry, house-
keeping facilities and the bathhouses.
During periods of good rainfall,
all the water for our bathhous-
es may be pure, filtered rainwater.
 EcoCurrents

Minimizing water pollution

Our washing machines use minimal water

as well as minimal energy. We use 100%
biodegradable laundry detergent and limit
the amount of bleach we use to a mini-
mum. Since our laundry is done without
the use of harsh chemicals, the result-
ant wastewater stream becomes a vi-
able water source for secondary usage.

We also supply all of our tent-cabins with

100% natural biodegradable dish soap.

Wastewater is pumped into a large aeration

tank. Here, nature’s own bacteria break
down and separate the solids. The system
uses a process designed by the Santec Cor-
poration specifically for our small capacity.

Using gravity reducing back ups, the sys-

tem sifts and chlorinates the wastewa-
ter, leaving a clear liquid ready for re-
use in our organic orchard and garden.

This is article is based on the “Manag-

ing Resources” section on www.Maho.org

Maho Bay Camps, TIES Sponsor & Sup-

porter Member, was founded in 1976 by
Stanley Selengut based on the philoso-
phy that environmental sensitivity, hu-
man comfort and responsible consump-
tion are all compatible and that they
can enhance your vacation experience.

The Estate Concordia Studios are on adjacent

properties on St. John, about 25 minutes from
Maho Bay. Boasting an environment where
tree frogs and hummingbirds feel just as com-
fortable as you do, these eco-resorts are set
in a pristine, natural setting, and are among
the world’s finest ecotourism destinations.

ecotourism.org | 9
 EcoCurrents

Water Conservation Tips for

Responsible Travelers
Before you book:
Do your homework - look for hotels, resorts, and Did
destinations with good water conservation practices.
You
Add to your packing list - biodegradable soaps and
detergents, reusable water bottle and water purifier. Know?
While you are there:
Tourists in Grenada,
Spain generally use
Use the minimum amount of water needed for a shower/ 7 times more water
bath. than local people
and this discrepancy
Don’t let water run while shaving, brushing or washing. is common in many
developing tour-
ist areas. (Source:
Check if the hotel has a linen reuse program - if so, UNESCO Water Portal
reuse your towels and bed sheets, if not, request hospital “Facts about Water
ity staff not to change them every day. and Tourism”)

An average 18-hole
Don’t contaminate local water sources: golf course soaks up
at least 525,000 gal-
Avoid washing soaps, shampoos, detergents off lons of water a day
directly in rivers or oceans. - enough to supply
the irrigation needs of
100 Malaysian farm-
Avoid using sunscreen with chemicals harmful to ers. (Source: Tour-
wildlife; when possible wear a T-shirt instead while ism Concern “Water
snorkeling or at the beach. abuse”)

Join Our Forum

Share your ideas and suggestions on water sav-

ing tips for travelers and tourism businesses on TIES
Online Forum - “Your Travel Choice Makes a Dif-
ference”: www.s8.createphpbb.com/ecotourism

More Tips to Write to Us

Share? Submit tips for the “Energy Conservation Tips

for Responsible Travelers” section on the Q2
2008 edition of EcoCurrents: editor@ecotourism.
org (Subject:“Energy Coservation Tips”)

10 | ecotourism.org

Useful Resources :
Sustainable Water Management
Green Lodging News ~ lodging’s leading
environmental news source
This dynamic website (www.greenlodgingnews.com)
provides up-to-date information on various elements
of green lodging, including energy saving tips, waste
management techniques, green design practices.
Find the latest news and best practices on water
conservation in the lodging industry here: www.
greenlodgingnews.com/WaterConservation.aspx.
Sustainable Sanitation ~ Ecologically sound
and socially viable solution
Ecosan Services Foundation is a Non-Profit Or-
ganisation with the objective to provide Ecologi-
cal Sanitation (“Ecosan”) services through train-
ing, capacity building, partnerships and project
planning and implementation. Learn about the
environmental, social, economic and health ben-
efits of Ecosan here: www.ecosanservices.org.
EarthEcho International ~ Empowering
individuals to take action
A non-profit organization founded in 2000, EarthE-
cho International promotes actions to protect and
enhance the water planet. EarthEcho Internation-
al’s mission is to use media and experiences to em-
power people to use the resources that can restore
and protect Earth’s ocean and freshwater systems.
Read more and get involved: www.earthecho.org.
EcoCurrents
WorldWatch Institute
~ State of the World 2008
State of the World is the Worldwatch Institute
(www.worldwatch.org)’s flagship annual publi-
cation providing latest research on ways to nur-
ture a safe, sane, and healthy global environment
through policy and action. The theme of the State
of the World 2008 is Innovations for a Sustainable
Economy, with Chapter 8 (“Water in a Sustainable
Economy”) discussing innovations in water manage-
ment and policy: www.worldwatch.org/node/5561.
Ashoka’s Changemakers
~ Tapping Local Innovation: Unclogging the
Water and Sanitation Crisis
Changemakers is an initiative of Ashoka (www.
ashoka.org) that focuses on social innovation, pro-
viding solutions and resources needed to help eve-
ryone become a changemaker. The competition,
“Tapping Local Innovation” was organized in part-
nership with the Global Water Challenge (www.glo-
balwaterchallenge.org) in 2008. View the Challenge
winners and other information here: www.change-
makers.net/en-us/competition/waterandsanitation.
More Ecotourism
Tips & Resources
www.eccotourism.org
ecotourism.org | 11
 EcoCurrents
Cross-Cultural
Native Fibre Weavers
Project
By ANNIE VANDERWYK
I
ncorporating the Aboriginal weav-
ing traditions and non-Aboriginal
cultural experiences, this innova-
tive project creates a national sustain-
able environmental management pro-
gram, rehabilitating waterways through
the reintroduction of native sedges.
This extraordinary cross-cultural and
cross-sectoral project is led by Aboriginal
Yolugnu weavers from the Northern Ter-
ritory, Ngarrindjerri weavers from South
Australia, and the Barkinji weavers from
Northwestern New South Wales (NSW).
These Aboriginal nations represent the
cultural flow of water from the top end
of Australia through the central river sys-
tems of NSW to the Coorong in South Aus-
tralia, and the difficulties that Aboriginal
communities have faced as water has in-
creasingly been used nation-wide as as a
commodity, primarily catering to com-
mercial agricultural needs and interests.
The partnership between the Aboriginal
and non-Aboriginal weavers serves a fur-
ther purpose in addressing cross-cultural
education, as well as highlighting the
spirit of reconciliation that has been em-
phasized in Australian government’s proc-
ess of extending an apology to the Abo-
riginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
for human rights abuses through a sad his-
tory of assimilationist government policy.
12 | ecotourism.org
Why Native Fibre?
By producing shopping bags, fishing nets, The next edition
fish traps, and traditional clothing woven of EcoCurrents will
with native fibers, the weavers are contrib-
feature an article dis-
cussing the upcoming
uting their talent to the local, national and Native Fibre Weavers
international effotrs addressing environ- Workshop to be held
mental and cultural challenges such as the at Camp Coorong
use of plastic bags and artificial materials. in South Australia,
and the initiatives on
cultural tourism busi-
The use of introduced noxious and inva- ness development for
sive grasses for weaving has also posed weavers.
significant challenge, as those grass-
es have endangered native species. The Camp Coorong
Workshop aims to
bring further pub-
The NSW-based weaving group Twisted lic attention to the
Sisters has developed a concept of weav- critical situation of the
ing to eradicate introduced species, uti- Coorong’s vital role in
sustaining biodiversity
lizing traditional knowledge of native and environmental
species to produce products such as mats, health of one of the
baskets and nets across the country. Murray Darling rivers,
Australia’s most vital
The Trangie Native Fibre Weavers river systems.
Statement
For more informa-
In April 2008, a Native Weavers Workshop
tion on Annie and her
was conducted at the government ag- contributions to TIES,
ricultural research station in Trangie, a please see: www.eco-
small rural town in the Central West NSW. tourismorg (Current
Projects > Ecotourism
and Indigenous Com-
The Trangie Workshop marked the start of
munities)
the Working Group “Native Fibre Weav-
ers Caring For Our Country.” All par-
ticipants, both men and women, and
formal weaving groups in attendance
at Trangie agreed to form as founda-
tional members of the Working Group.
 EcoCurrents

“The weaving pattern represents life, stitch by

stitch, circle by circle, the lands, waters and all
living things [that] are connected like family.”
- Ellen Trevorrow, Ngarrindjeri Weaver
Trangie Native Fibre Weavers Statement

The Trangie Native Fibre Weavers Statement represents the collective agreements of all participants of
the Trangie workshop, in support of the newly formed “Environmental & Cultural Weavers Caring For
Our Country Working Group.”

As a collective of weaving associations, Aboriginal cultural weavers and individ-

ual weavers, we are committed to a process of revitalising our environment to
sustain our craft and our country s ecological future. We believe our craft reflects
the connection of our hands to the earth and the cycle of life through individu-
als, our families and communities, as an extension of our belonging to Country.

Through the strength of our collective voices as weavers and stew-

ards of our Country, we are committed to the following outcomes:

1. To establish, with the support of the 13 NSW CMAs and associated

Aboriginal staff, a national profile for the Environmental & Cultural
Weavers: Caring for Our Country Working Group.
2. To represent, through the membership of this group, a commitment
to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal reconciliation and respect through the
valuing of Aboriginal cultural knowledge.
3. To actively apply cultural knowledge to the practices of caring for our
country.
4. To pro-actively support the signing of Negotiated Land Access Agreements through the CMA and to
work together with the broader community for access and co-management of aspects of the landscape
that have cultural value to the group, including wetlands, soaks and river conservation.
5. To listen and learn from our environment.
6. To acknowledge the cultural needs of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australian communities in sus-
taining cultural traditions through gaining access to aspects of the landscape that people value such as
native sedges, rushes and reeds through personal agreement or through Negotiated Land Access Agree-
ments.
7. To commit to the environmental management of these sites for the sustainable production of natural
resources through land management programs and educational partnerships.
8. To commit to sustainable environmental management of our country and acknowledge the wider
socio-cultural responsibilities of the Working Group to support Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal weavers in
the development of economic self-determination through the promotion of native fibre crafts.
9. To promote our craft through exhibition or marketing to bring attention to the ecological needs and
sustainable practices necessary to care for our country for holistic sustainable natural resource manage-
ment.
10. To stimulate public awareness of environmental conservation and cultural values through supporting
public education and cross-cultural exchange of knowledge through an on going commitment to Commu-
nity Weaving Workshops and Weavers Conferences.
11. To strengthen the networks of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians through weaving relation-
ships to care for our country.

ecotourism.org | 13
 EcoCurrents

Water
Conservation
and
Water Saving
Devices
BY KAREN LEWIS

Here is a list of construction principles and

products that provide a sustainable founda-
tion for an ecolodge. The outline only offers
directives, as solutions must be tailored to in-
dividual sites, and specific products and meth-
ods adopted based on independent research.

The list includes suggested products to consider

and/or research, as well as materials to build, main-
tain and/or improve an environmentally friendly
and socially responsible hospitality business. Our
design originated in a tropical climate yet the out-
line incorporates colder climate suggestions.

Introduction - the Lapa Rios Story

Change Habits - Install Lapa Rios Ecolodge, a 14-bungalow ecolodge lo-

cated in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, was
“Water is NOT a Renew- designed and built in 1990s, utilizing com-
munity involvement, locally-found building ma-
able Resource” signs terials, and time-tested practical solutions.

next to “Turn off the Local community members have been involved
in the on-going preservation of the regions’ rain-
Tap” signs in employee forest, and the lodge incorporates locally re-
newable building materials (wood, grasses,
areas and guest rooms. leaves) and nearby agriculturalists as suppliers.

In 1999, Lapa Rios signed up to take part in Costa

Rica’s Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST).
This external review through third par-
ty certification, helped create a valu-
able list of products and practices.

14 | ecotourism.org

Water Supply, Treatment and Conservation Goals
S L
hort Term Goals
with small-medium
costs:
1. Collect data:
Use water meters
to measure daily use in
kitchen, laundry, gardens
and guest (and employee)
rooms.
Graph initial water use, by
zones measured.
Set reduction goals, both
short and long term.
2. Change habits:
Routinely monitor and repair
any toilet leaks, faucets and show-
ers drips, leaking pipe fittings or
joints, broken garden hoses or ir-
rigation systems, and capture tank
lines and gray water drain lines.
Use biodegradable soaps and/
or detergents (to filter and re-use
water in gardens or toilets .
Install “Water is NOT a Re-
newable Resource” signs next to
“Turn off the Tap” signs in employ-
ee areas and guest rooms.
Operate
dishwashers and
laundry machines
only when full.
Use a broom
to clean drives,
walkways and out-
door surfaces.
Compost food
scraps and vegetable
trimmings rather than
using garbage dispos-
als.
Mulch around gar-
den plants and trees.
Use back-washing pool- or
spa-water in gardens.
Control guest linen changes.
Control number of guest towel
offerings.
Capture and re-use one-time-
use soapy laundry water.
3. Assess and install water
saving devices:
Toilet tank seals.
Displacement device in large
toilet tanks.
Low flow faucet
aerators or restrictors.
Low flow shower-
head restrictors.
Insulate hot water
pipes to reduce water
waste (waiting for hot).
Replace thirsty grassy areas
and gardens with drought tolerant
(endemic) plants.
Use a rain gauge, garden hose
timers, low flow spray nozzles, and
test soil moisture with a humidity
gauge.
Rain barrels for garden water-
ing.
EcoCurrents
ong Term Goals
retrofit or initial construction
with greater expense:
5. Create a short and long
term water budget
6. Improve and/or add to
water saving devices
Dual flush toilets or low flow
toilets (<6 liters), and/or water-
less, composting toilets.
High water efficiency washers.
Cover pools and spas.
Solar hot water panels with
back up ‘On-demand’ water heater
loops, nearby water use areas.
Build rainwater capture and/
or containment: roof gutters and
cistern storage.
Plumb gray
water lines to leech
field.
Install biologi-
cal filtration system
(leech field) for gray
water.
Plumb filtered water for
re-use in garden irrigation, toilet
flushing, etc.
Drip irrigation gardening,
timed outdoor automatic watering
system in combination with humid-
ity detection gauge.
To view more tips on greening lodge
operations, see: www.ecotourism.org
(Business to Business > Building a Green
ecotourism.org | 15
 EcoCurrents

Water Conservation
and
Water Saving
Devices
for Ecolodges (Cont’d)
Karen Lewis is Owner and Co-Founder of Lapa Rios
Ecolodge (TIES Sponsor & Supporter Member), and a
Board member of TIES. In 1990, Karen and John Lewis
purchased over 1,000 acres of tropical rain forest in the
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. To maintain this bio-diverse
reserve, and only use the land as a vehicle to sustain
the Osa community, they created Lapa Rios. Lapa Rios
demonstrates and educates sustainable tourism stand-
ards to its over-60 staff members and its guests. These
efforts received the highest rating by the CST program.
In 1991, Karen formed La Asociación de Educacíon,
a Lapa Rios guest-supported foundation, to build the
nearby Carbonera School. The foundation continues “Water is NOT a Renewable Resource”
to help build and maintain several Osa primary schools. Photos courtesy of Lapa Rios Ecolodge
Read more: www.LapaRios.com Page 10: Rainforest; Page 12: Lapa Rios Pool

Take Your Business to New Heights!

Advertise in EcoCurrents - media@ecotourism.org

16 | ecotourism.org
 EcoCurrents

TIES EcoCurrents eMagazine 2008 Topics

In 2008 the TIES EcoCurrents eMagazine will focus on sustainable use and management of natu-
ral and cultural resources in ecotourism, highlighting best practice examples and up-to-date
information on relevant issues and challenges.

First Quarter 2008 (May 2008):

Conservation and sustainable management of water resources in ecotourism.

Second Quarter 2008 (July 2008):

Alternative and renewable energy use for sustainable tourism development.

Third Quarter 2008 (September 2008):

Agricultural and forestry resources and innovative solutions for ecotourism.

Fourth Quarter 2008 (December 2008):

Sustainable development, capacity building and community well-being.

Interested in submitting an article? Contact: Media@ecotourism.org

ecotourism.org | 17
 EcoCurrents

The
Green Guide
to the Mexican
Caribbean
MEXICONSERVACIÓN

“The Green Guide to the Mexican Caribbean” is an

educational publication providing information on the
unique ecosystems in the Yucatan Peninsula and in
Mexico, and practical tips for both individuals and
businesses on how to help conserve them. Launched
by MEXICONSERVACIÓN, a Mexico-based non-profit
conservation organization, the guide offers valuable
advice for travelers on minimizing negative impacts
while enjoying the bio-cultural diversity of the region.

The Green Guide:

“Coral Reefs Are In Danger”
As the Mexican Caribbean coastline develops into a popular tourist destination, Tourist activities that damage
unsustainable human activities are inflicting a great strain on its fragile reefs. the reefs, and how you can
help.
“Cenotes, Lagoons & Beaches”
Conserve water and favor hotels that have sound water conservation policies, for The challenges facing natural
example: those that use gray water for gardening, or water plants only at night. attractions on the coast.

“Boat Maintenance Procedures” More tips and good practices

Regular boat maintenance will not only extend the life of your on recreational boating.
boat, but will also help keep our bays and coasts pristine. It’s easy!

The above has been adapted from “The Green Guide to the Mexi-
can Caribbean” by MEXICONSERVACIÓN. The full guide is avail-
able for download (PDF) at: www.mexiconservacion.org.

Founded in 2006, MEXICONSERVACIÓN is dedicated to promoting, support-

ing and executing environmental protection, conservation and restoration
programs. Partnering with other NGOs, government agencies, academic in-
stitutions, the private sector and the general public, MEXICONSERVACIÓN pro-
vides resources and services for various environmental protection programs.

18 | ecotourism.org
 EcoCurrents

ESTC 2008 - Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

October 27-29, 2008
www.ecotourismconference.org

TIES’ third conference focusing on ecotourism and sustainable tourism in

the U.S. and Canada, the ESTC 2008 will bring together 500+ experts,
industry leaders and community stakeholders from across the region.

Providing invaluable networking and knowledge sharing opportuni-

ties, the ESTC 2008 will utilize innovative multi-stakeholder strate-
gies to implement sustainable change for bio-cultural conservation.

The ESTC 2008 sponsorship opportunities at various levels are sell-

ing quickly. Take advantage of the promotional opportunities as-
sociated with this one-of-a-kind annual conference by becoming a
sponsor today! See: www.ecotourismconference.org/ESTC2008/spon-
sorship for more information or contact: sponsorship@ecotourism.org

Take Your Business to

New Heights

Advertise in EcoCurrents!
media@ecotourism.org

ecotourism.org | 19
 EcoCurrents
A Case Study in
Community-Based Tourism
with Nomads
BY KATRINA SHUM
Former Project Coordinator,
The Itgel Foundation
Former Researcher and Coordinator,
TIES
T
raditional nomadic culture is
based on a chain of connections
with the land: pastures grow
near water, animals graze in the pas-
tures, and herders follow their ani-
mals – the source of their livelihood.
But what happens to this chain when
tourism arrives? While commu-
nity-based tourism (CBT) is a valu-
able strategy for conservation and
development, it presents unique chal-
lenges for nomadic communities.
The Tsaatan Reindeer Herders
The Tsaatan reindeer herders are Mon-
golia’s smallest and most remote eth-
nic minority. Recent decades of so-
cio-economic and political change,
such as transition to a cash-based
economy and forced relocations, have
left the herders struggling to adapt.
Uncoordinated efforts and the lack of
well-developed economic opportunities
threaten the community’s subsistence ag-
ricultural practice of reindeer husbandry.
20 | ecotourism.org
Learn more about the
Frameworks for Community-Based
Itgel Foundation and
Tourism with Nomads the TCVC:
www.itgel.org
Over the 2007 Field Season, my chal-
lenge was to develop a CBT framework
for the Tsaatan Community & Visitor’s
The Tsaatan Rein-
Center (TCVC). Working with the Tsaa-
tan, we developed tourism strategies deer Herdsmen are a
that enable herders to follow traditional branch of the Turkic-
nomadic patterns based on pasture se- speaking Tuvinian or
lection rather than tourist hot-spots. Dukha ethnic group,
and live in the moun-
According to Gantemur Damba, Chair- tainous taiga and for-
man of the Sustainable Tourism De- est steppe regions to
velopment Center, there is a need for the north and west of
“nomad-friendly tourism technology, Lake Khovsgol.
a practical and theoretical tool that (Source:
conserves the natural and cultural www.Unesco.org)
landscape of Mongolia by fostering
sustainable development, re-inspir-
ing nomads’ traditional connection
with their herds and pastures, and
empowering communities to enhance
the core mobile identity of Mongols.”
 EcoCurrents

Nomad-friendly TCVC Tourism Strategies The Tssatan are currently in the proc-
ess of establishing a Norkholol, a commu-
nity group recognized as a legal entity able
• Communication: An effective com-
to gain a renewable ownership lease of nat-
munication system is key to coordinat-
ural resources on the land they occupy.
ing travel logistics in the remote region.
Although a relatively new law, this legislation
To enable the herders to continue their natu-
is promising for Mongolian communities, partic-
ral movement, high-frequency radios were dis-
ularly with the growth of the mining industry.
tributed to the main camps, linking them to the
TCVC building in town, which would act as a
hub with a phone line to the rest of Mongolia. The Grander Scheme: Tourism in Mongolia
• Logistics: Below are some of the TCVC’s Mongolia is in need of vertical supply chain
unique nomad-friendly tourism strategies. management, especially given the vast land, far
distances and poor transportation infrastruc-
The Ortz Hotel – As a traditional abode, the ture. There is stiff horizontal competition with
Ortz Hotel is essentially a transportable guest- many tour operators at the national level each
house that allows the Tsaatan to host tour- with independent vehicle fleets and networks.
ists without compromising family privacy or
traditional nomadic patterns. This UNDP ini- Most countries have a national strategy to
tiative is being integrated into the TCVC. streamline the value chain so that services are
outsourced; this has yet to happen in Mongolia.
Roster of Service Providers – To ensure that
each herder has a fair employment oppor- The poor infrastructure and low labor costs may
tunity, and to discourage settlement around be to blame, but this trend is likely to change due
tourist hotspots, the TCVC developed ros- to cost efficiencies, according to Jan Wigsten,
ters for trained horsemen, guides, and cook founder of Nomadic Journeys. As labor costs in-
to have an equal chance to provide services. crease, companies will likely outsource periph-
eral aspects of their operation to focus more
Meal Kits – Meal Kits were developed to en- on providing specialized tourist experiences.
sure that tourists do not consume families’
food supply, which are often rationed based on More investments and support in the lower
the time and effort required to transport food. part of the value chain will develop regional
operators who can offer more unique experi-
• Governance: Through a Participatory Ru- ences. The TCVC will essentially be a Tsaa-
ral Appraisal, the community elected representa- tan-owned regional operator for the taiga.
tives to manage the TCVC and the community fund.

Lake Khovsgol
Ulaanbaatar

M O N G O L I A

ecotourism.org | 21
 EcoCurrents

22 | ecotourism.org