Ecotourism Industry
International Renewable Energy Industry
Where They Meet
Services

ECOTOURISM INDUSTRY

Ecotourism is broadly defined as tourism that protects nature and improves the local economy. Many developing countries view ecotourism as an effective economic development strategy. It tangibly demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between environmental protection and economic development--its profitability depends on a protected environment.

The industry has developed guidelines and certification criteria that serve as marketing tools while helping ecotourism sites maintain a sustainable operation.

Examples include:

• Local and global environmental concerns associated with conventional power systems
• Regulatory requirements
• Need for rural electrification and reliable electricity
• High cost of grid extension
• Consumer demand for clean energy
• Growing corporate movement toward sustainable business practices

These drivers are present in most countries. In developing countries, however, economic necessity still often overshadows environmental concern. This is the case even though they are confronted with the world's highest growth in electricity demand and mounting environmental problems. The developing world presents great opportunities, but these challenges are directing the renewable energy industry toward a market whose economic success depends on environmental stewardship. Ecotourism is such a market.

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Where They Meet

Installing renewable energy systems at ecotourism sites is a way to address the challenges facing both industries, because it allows sites to:

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Services

Pallavi R. Shah is a consultant with extensive experience in the environment and energy fields and her services encompass two fundamental areas:

I. Identify and help procure renewable energy systems appropriate for a tour site's electricity needs and budget. This can include an assessment of financing options.

II. Offer business development suggestions to increase tourism traffic at your site, including profiling your target market, keeping abreast of tourism trends in your country, expanding your marketing reach, and providing a list of contacts interested in ecotourism.

To help you adhere to additional ecotourism guidelines, Ms. Shah also offers her services in the solid waste management field, where she can assess the feasibility of introducing alternatives such as recycling and buying products made from recycled materials.

For more information on these services, please contact:

Pallavi R. Shah, Consultant
10204-D Willow Mist Ct.
Oakton, VA 22124
phone: 866-724-3444
e-mail: shahp@earthlink.net

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