SUSTAINABLE TOURISM STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL

Transcription

1 STSC: A proposed global accreditation body for sustainable tourism and ecotourism certifiers SUSTAINABLE TOURISM STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL ARCTIC REGION IYE SKAKEHOLDER MEETING 27 April 2002 Moderated by Fergus Maclaren With 65 participants from Canada, Denmark, Finland Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, USA The session was held in a ninety minute format as part of an overall certification discussion involving Arctic-related certification schemes and their development. 1. What are the perceived benefits or needs of stakeholders regarding accreditation? In terms of benefits, it was perceived that accreditation would enable an easier marketing of ecotourism by fostering greater credibility within the industry. Specifically, customers could have some kind of standard of guarantee which would verify that tourism operators are adhering to a certain level of sustainable management. To make such an accreditation system work, the accreditation system in question would have to provide ongoing customer orientation and awareness through marketing campaigns. There would also be the need to clarify what a tourism certification scheme entails versus alternate systems such as those of the International Standards Organization (ISO). 2. What is the market demand or willingness to pay for such an accreditation scheme? Accreditation often serves as means to give a better operational framework for businesses. Other industries have shown that accreditation can work, but is this the case with ecotourism, where many of the businesses are struggling and cannot afford the time nor cost for participation. There was a sense that there is no proof for certification, and by logical extension is there one for accreditation, where it may end up creating a continuous loop with this process. Ecotourism is often not facility-based. It is harder to apply to experientially different performance- or process-based systems. There are, however, accommodation systems such as the Four Star model in the tourism industry as an example that has been applied from large hotels to small bed and breakfast operations. Demand and price point for a product is often based upon its perceived quality or value that is part of its brand equity. Asking businesses to pay for certification adds another layer of cost to their education and management process. Hence, it is perceived that the proposed accreditation programme would be an expensive one. 3. What is the effectiveness of certification to the consumer? The audience inquired as to why did the research/study not have a consumer component, where this process appears to be primarily looking at the business perspective of clients. In the case of Germany, labels for SMEs were not found to be effective at the consumer level. In Sweden they believe that certification is important, but hard to quantify. It was also determined that there needs to be a better method of presenting a viable framework to industry. The conclusion is that this process is too ambitious at the global level, taking a significant amount of time and money. A Rainforest Alliance project conducted by Leeds Metropolitan and Greenwich universities

2 STSC: A proposed global accreditation body for sustainable tourism and ecotourism certifiers 4. What should the organizational structure be and how should it be established? It was recommended that the organizational structure be a centralized body, which should start small and grow slow ly by creating alliances. This body must respond to individual or geographic needs in terms of social, business, community and environmental aspects. Its benefits could include networking opportunities without associated travel costs and information sharing on best practices. At the consumer level, there needs to be market research to get a better understanding of what will enable recogn ition b y the now global consume r, which will facilita te ma rketing benefits. It was strongly felt, however, that there would be a number of serious impediments in establishing an accreditation organization and these include: People and businesses don t want to pay for a logo; The potential travel costs would be huge in developing the process; There is the potential of contaminating current certification programs by introducing another element like accreditation into the mix; There is concern over the structure of the organization and who would lead the process; and The timing is not right at the present time for such an accreditation body. The question was later defined by the group as being: what do you want from a global accreditation program? There was a general consensus amongst the participants that the STSC should not be implemented. At this point, the questions ceased when it was determined by the audience that they did not want to take part in a done deal that they felt they did not want to be a part of, nor answer any further questions. Summary notes of the event, by Fergus Maclaren, TIES. 1.0 REGIONAL CERTIFICATION KNOWLEDGE The knowledge of certification can be considered to be very high. A number of participants had been involved in the establishment of certification processes in Scandinavia and Europe, and were well-versed on those aspects that enabled successful or unsuccessful schemes to develop. There was a strong consensus amongst the group, however, that the STSC was not a viable nor appropriate mechanism at this time. The challenges perceived by the working groups largely related to cost of managing such a global scheme as the STSC, the degree to which the certification process had been established and whether it was actually needed. In advance of the World Ecotourism Summit and Rainforest Alliance meeting there, four individuals signed off on a note indicating their censure of the process: We do not feel there is a need for a Sustainable Tourism Stewardship Council on the grounds that: It is introducing an unnecessary layer of administration and management, and It is introducing an additional cost which most certification programs will be unable to afford Furthermore, the consultation approach has not clearly outlined the problem or explored alternatives. For such a large-scale project, consultation should have first sought agreement on the problem and then identified a range of solutions. A Rainforest Alliance project conducted by Leeds Metropolitan and Greenwich universities

3 STSC: A proposed global accreditation body for sustainable tourism and ecotourism certifiers This group therefore rejects the development of a Sustainable Tourism Stewardship Council. Sylvie Blangy, TUKTU, F rance Peter Kingsmill, Tourism Operator, Canada Jennifer Sipkens, Sustainable Tourism Association of Canada, Canada Pam Wight, Pam Wight & Associates 2.0 REGION-SPECIFIC ISSUES The Arctic There is a new program that was recently introduced in the Arctic and presented at the regional meeting known as LINKS: Linking Conservation and Tourism. It is intended as an accreditation program for arctic tourism businesses that operate sustainably. The program will also assist in educating both consumers and business owners about sustainable tourism in the Arctic. It is a joint initiative of the WWF Arctic Programme, the State of Alaska (DCED), and the Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association (AWRTA). As well, the WWF s Arctic Programme has introduced The Ten Principles for Arctic Tourism and the Codes of Conduct for Tour Operators and Tourists in the Arctic developed through a multi-stakeholder process facilitated by the WWF. Sweden Sweden is in the process of developing an operator s certification programme called Nature s Best. The Swedish Ecotourism Society refers to it as Europe's first, and the world's second, clearly defined national ecotourism label. The intent of this scheme is to enhance the quality of Ecotourism in Sweden and significantly increase its volume. Its background document, which can be found at the Swedish Ecotourism Society s web site ( provides a useful process model in terms of the definitions, rationale, mechanisms and monitoring that have been considered in the application of this system to provide a series of well-defined standards that ecotourism operators should adhere or work towards REGIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS The audience at the Arctic Regional Meeting probably had the best knowledge and experience in developing certification processes. Many in the audience had been watching the development of the STSC since its inception, and used the event as a forum to outline their concerns regarding the development and need of such a body. Given their experience and knowledge of certification issues, the individuals who signed the note of censure and others who attended the regional meeting should be contacted more directly to draw out and elaborate on their concerns on a one-to-one basis. This process would provide further in-depth information on what could help, modify or halt the development of creating an STSC. A Rainforest Alliance project conducted by Leeds Metropolitan and Greenwich universities

4 Summary Report Arctic Ecotourism Conference April, 2002 Hemavan, Sweden Arctic region preparatory conference for the World Ecotourism Summit

5 I. Introduction and Background 3 II. The Hosts 4 III. The Conference topics 5 1. Arctic Ecotourism and Conservation 5 2. Arctic Ecotourism and Communities 5 3. Arctic Ecotourism Certification & Marketing 5 IV. The 10 Recommendations to the World Ecotourism Summit 5 Recommendation Number 1 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) 5 Recommendation Number 2 (from Ecotourism Certification, Marketing and Management ) 5 Recommendation Number 3 (from Strengthening community-based ecotourism in the Arctic ) 6 Recommendation Number 4 (from Ship-based tourism and conservation ) 6 Recommendations Number 5 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) 6 Recommendation Number 6 (from Ecotourism in Protected Area s) 7 Recommendation Number 7 (from Ship-based Tourism and Arctic Communities ) 7 Recommendation Number 8 (from The Government s Role in Community-friendly Tourism ) 7 Recommendations Number 9 (from Partnerships for Conservation ) 7 Recommendation Number 10 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) 8 V. Conclusions from the Arctic Ecotourism Conference for the four main themes of the International Year of Ecotourism 9 1. Theme A Ecotourism Planning: The Sustainability Challenge 9 2. Theme B Regulation of Tourism: Institutional Responsibilities and Frameworks 9 3. Theme C Product Development, Marketing and Promotion of Ecotourism: Fostering Sustainable Products and Consumers 9 4. Theme D Monitoring Costs and Benefits of Ecotourism: Ensuring Equitable Distribution Among All Stakeholders 9 VI. All Recommendations by Workshop Theme Arctic Ecotourism and Conservation Recommendations for ecotourism in protected areas Recommendation for ecotourism outside protected areas Recommendations for partnerships for conservation Recommendation for ship-based ecotourism and conservation Arctic Ecotourism and Communities Recommendation for the government s role in community-friendly ecotourism Recommendations for strengthening community-based ecotourism in the Arctic Recommendations for ship-based tourism and communities Recommendations for hunting and fishing as ecotourism Arctic Ecotourism and Certification Recommendations for ecotourism certification and protected areas Recommendations for ecotourism certification and communities Recommendations for ecotourism certification, marketing and management Summarized recommendation for ship-based ecotourism in the Arctic 17 VII. Appendix 18 Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 2

6 I. Introduction and Background Among the world s largest industries, tourism is having a growing impact on the Arctic. Travellers are drawn to the Arctic by its unique wildlife, pristine landscapes, harsh climate, and the cultural richess and diversity of its indigenous communities. Nature and culture are the key resources sustaining tourism in this region, and most operations are small to medium-sized. However, the term ecotourism, when applied to a product or concept, is not as widely used in the Arctic as in other parts of the world. It is a subject of debate whether or not hunting and fishing activities as a part of indigenous subsistence traditions can be considered ecotourism. Even though the numbers of vistors to the Arctic are still comparably low, the growth in tourism activity has created problems, including environmental degradation, disruption of community life and unsustainable use of renewable resources. Increasing tourism can also have positive aspects though, and many arctic governments view tourism development as a tool for addressing rural challenges such as unemployment, and for diversifying the economic base of communities. As one of the preparatory meetings for the World Ecotourism Summit, the Arctic Ecotourism Conference was organized with the objective of bringing together a wide variety of tourism practitioners from around the circumpolar north to discuss the current status of ecotourism, exchange experiences and come up with recommendations about how future tourism development can be made more beneficial for local people and nature conservation. The conference participants discussed three main themes: o Arctic Ecotourism and Conservation o Arctic Ecotourism and Communities o Arctic Ecotourism Certification and Marketing Each theme was addressed in four workshops (see table, page 5). After case studies were presented introducing each sub-theme, discussions of the topics followed, and by the end of the session, participants had developed specific recommendations for the World Ecotourism Summit, to be held in Quebec, Canada, May All of the recommendations were distributed to participants before the final session, when the audience voted for the top ten recommendations to be presented in Quebec. The Arctic Ecotourism Conference was represented at the World Ecotourism Summit by Sarah Leonard, Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association, USA; and Ann- Kristin Vinka, Laplandsafari, Sweden. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 3

7 II. The Hosts Conference organizers: WWF International Arctic Programme PO Box 6784, St Olavs Pl 0130 Oslo, Norway T: F: Samantha Smith, Director; Steering committee: Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association Sarah Leonard, Executive Director; County Administration of Västerbotten Mats Rune Bergström, Principal Administrative Officer Swedish Ecotourism Association Jan Wigsten, President; The International Ecotourism Society Fergus MacLaren, Director, International Year of Ecotourism WWF International Arctic Programme Marianne Lodgaard, Head of Administration; WWF International Arctic Programme Miriam Geitz, Tourism Project Officer; We would especially like to thank the following organizations and institutions for their support: o County Administration of Västerbotten, Sweden o Department for Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Canada o Directorate for Nature Management, Sweden o European Tourism Research Institute, Sweden o State of Alaska, USA o The International Ecotourism Society, USA o WWF International Arctic Programme, Norway o Conservation International o Rainforest Alliance Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 4

8 III. The Conference topics Themes 1. Arctic Ecotourism and Conservation 2. Arctic Ecotourism and Communities 3. Arctic Ecotourism Certification & Marketing Workshops 1. Ecotourism in protected areas The role of ecotourism in conservation in protected areas 2. Ecotourism outside protected areas Best practices for operating outside protected areas 3. Partnerships for conservation Encouraging dialogue between industry, communities and NGOs 4. Ship-based tourism and conservation pros and cons 1. The government s role in community-friendly ecotourism ensuring socioeconomic benefits of ecotourism for communities 2. Strengthening community-based ecotourism in the Arctic the mutual benefits for industry and communities 3. Hunting and fishing the relationship to ecotourism 4. Ship-based tourism and arctic communities potential and pitfalls 1. Ecotourism certification and protected areas (PAs) how can ecotourism certification be an effective tool for PA management? 2. Ecotourism certification and communities how can ecotourism certification contribute to community development? 3. Ecotourism certification and ship-based tourism what kinds of ship-based tourism qualify? 4. Certification and business development how to use ecotourism certification for management and marketing? IV. The 10 Recommendations to the World Ecotourism Summit The three main themes Arctic Ecotourism and its relationship to conservation, communities and certification were addressed in 12 workshops which all produced recommendations. The following ten recommendations were voted as the most important ones to be put forward at the World Ecotourism Summit: RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 1 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) Considering the economic situation and constraints of remote arctic communities, and the legitimacy of these peoples right to live and subsist in these areas, and the need to protect and conserve arctic ecosystems from negative impacts. We recommend that the governments of arctic countries 1) Simplify current multi-permitting systems 2) Support land-use planning which recognizes the importance of ecotourism 3) Adopt a unified code of conduct, which guides ecotourism activities. RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 2 (from Ecotourism Certification, Marketing and Management ) What: Prepare the arctic-based tourism industry and its stakeholders for a future sustainable tourism certification program specific to the Arctic. How: Consider adapting the WWF Ten Principles for Arctic Tourism to a framework for a future arctic sustainable tourism certification program. The Code should cover environmental, social, cultural, and business (including customer service) aspects. Develop capacity-building programs to assist operators in meeting the Code, featuring regional workshops that mix training and input into the structure and incentives of the future certification program, and a supporting manual or kit. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 5

9 Develop a mechanism to link existing national certification programs operating in the Arctic into a circum-polar program. Create incentives for joining the certification program. Promote the framework, incentives and process for a future certification program. Prepare a project proposal for relevant funding applications. Who: An arctic coalition on tourism that includes regional representation from nature and cultural tourism, industry, government, environment and communities (including indigenous). RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 3 (from Strengthening community-based ecotourism in the Arctic ) A bottom-up initiative comprised of individual and collective consultations is required, where community norms and values are respected, and training is provided to build local capacity in tourism matters. RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 4 (from Ship-based tourism and conservation ) What: To protect and preserve the arctic marine and coastal environment, and to ensure the sustainability of ship-based ecotourism in the Arctic. 1) That arctic state authorities be encouraged to designate marine protected areas in ecologically sensitive and significant arctic areas, and ensure that port state authorities enforce rules and regulations on ship activities within designated arctic areas. 2) That arctic state authorities harmonise regulatory standards across jurisdictions in the interests of establishing consistent non-conflicting standards that effectively protect the environment. 3) That arctic state authorities work progressively to provide sufficient waste management infrastructure such as waste receiving facilities to enable ship-based ecotourism operators to mitigate their environmental impact. How: A network or association of arctic ship-based ecotourism operators working in partnership and in alliance with like-minded stakeholders to address these shared issues of concern. Who: Arctic state authorities, ship-based ecotourism operators and cruise ships operating in the Arctic, other interested stakeholders. RECOMMENDATIONS NUMBER 5 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) What: Marketing of protected areas and ecotourism should reflect science, should create realistic expectations in tourists (activities and crowding), should respect culture and local communities, and should promote the full range of values of protected areas and nature experiences. How: Ensure there is ongoing communications with local communities to implement appropriate and respectful marketing Use scientific information as the basis for developing marketing materials Develop a code of practice for responsible marketing by operators, including photos demonstrating appropriate marketing. This should be internationally available on a website, and developed through a regionally adapted stakeholder process (Australia is doing this). Protected area managers and operators should establish a centralized photo library for free marketing use for all operators using a specific protected area Use marketing to manage visitor use in protected areas Responsible marketing should be a part of certification criteria Trade associations (and others) should educate their members about responsible marketing Who: Tour operators, trade associations, protected area managers. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 6

10 RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 6 (from Ecotourism in Protected Area s) Governments/ nature managers must plan protected area use for the long-term: begin with baseline assessment set long-term environmental goals, by deciding through a broad process what the state of an area should be in the span of a generation (desired state must be specific, for example, population status and distribution for key species, amount of habitat disturbance) select management tools (activity restrictions, zoning, etc.) and plan activities (site, amount, type) to reach this goal/desired state Part of the planning and management process for protected areas must be a long-term, broad stakeholder process to determine: - what is the purpose of the protected area - what is the desired state - tools - awareness raising The process should be set up and funded by government, but should be as inclusive as possible (industry, local communities, NGOs, etc) RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 7 (from Ship-based Tourism and Arctic Communities ) Restructure federal/national cruise ship licensing system to: Consult with communities Identify and generate economic benefits to communities Utilize local guides within communities Pre-set acceptable environment emissions and waste generation Monitor environmental impacts Utilize experts to interpret the environment and local communities in partnership with local communities Identify potential environmental and community impacts Identify preferred and maximum size of ship and number of passengers Establish community communication mechanism Offer communities the opportunity to reject proposals for becoming new destinations from cruise ships if the costs outweigh the benefits, from the community perspective. Add incentives for operators that go beyond license conditions so that good operators are not penalized by the actions or poor performances of others. RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 8 (from The Government s Role in Community-friendly Tourism ) What: To improve the regulatory environment; increase the knowledgability of government officials about tourism and responsible tourism in particular. How: Tourism businesses and associations should organize and demonstrate the economic contributions of tourism to their regions. RECOMMENDATIONS NUMBER 9 (from Partnerships for Conservation ) 1 1) Partnership-building - good information 1 Due to time constraints, recommendations 9 and 10 could not be discussed in plenary for content and wording. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 7

11 - data gathering - establish appropriate (local culture, views, experiences) common goals and vision - phasing begin with core group, create momentum expand group, base of support, focus - create a forum for discussion - create a development plan - bring in outside participants/ assistance Key words: respecting other partners/moderator opinions, funding initial success, government support/ lobbying, need for actual experience of good ecotourism and representatives, lining up partnerships before process 2) Create funding mechanisms - seed funding - need for an objective/ focus by the fundseeker - consideration of baseline aspects by fundseeker - local solutions, flexibility 3) Maintaining organizational identity - re: conservation and environmental organizations What do we think of as traditional partnerships - define conservation within process - encourage non-traditional partnerships - encourage mutually beneficial partnerships (conservation, data gathering, marketing) - encourage work with research or academic institutes (develop criteria/ framework) - work towards a specific purpose (agreed upon) Partnerships for conservation - promote conservation partnerships to share resources - incorporate tourism issues into regional networks and agencies RECOMMENDATION NUMBER 10 (from Ecotourism in Protected Areas ) 1 An effective method for the conservation of biodiversity, wilderness and the unique spiritual and cultural values of the north is the establishment and effective management of protected areas. The ecotourism industry and its clientele are prime beneficiaries of protected areas and the ecotourism opportunities they provide. Therefore, we recommend that the ecotourism industry and its operators mobilize their resources to promote the creation and effective management of protected areas by local and national governments and private interests. Some vehicles and mechanisms that could serve the industry and its operators in becoming a collective force for the creation of protected areas are, for example, formal ecotourism business associations, groups of like-minded tour operators, municipal and local community organizations, and non- government organizations. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 8

12 V. Conclusions from the Arctic Ecotourism Conference for the four main themes of the International Year of Ecotourism 1. Theme A Ecotourism Planning: The Sustainability Challenge Even more than in other regions, tourism in the Arctic is generated by its unique scenery, climate, fauna, flora, and indigenous cultures. All of these features are extremely vulnerable to impacts from human activities. Maintaining the pristine character of the region and the well being of the peoples that live there must be a prime objective for future (eco)tourism planning and when reviewing existing plans. 2. Theme B Regulation of Tourism: Institutional Responsibilities and Frameworks Though often percieved as a one destination, in reality the Arctic is comprised of eight nation states with varying regulations and legal frameworks. Consequently, there is a strong need for the review and harmonization of these frameworks to minimize negative impacts, and to empower local people dealing with tourism. Certification was discussed as one voluntary tool to promote responsible (sustainable) tourism practices in the region. The success of such a program however, would be highly dependent on the capacity-building elements that would ievitably have to accompany it. 3. Theme C Product Development, Marketing and Promotion of Ecotourism: Fostering Sustainable Products and Consumers The development of sustainable tourism products in the Arctic will require the strengthening of exactly those elements that comprise sustainability: socio-cultural, environmental and economic aspects. Capacity-building in all of these areas will have the greatest impact on future tourism development in the region. At the same time, the remoteness of the region means that combined marketing efforts will be required to generate awareness and knowledge about destinations. 4. Theme D Monitoring Costs and Benefits of Ecotourism: Ensuring Equitable Distribution Among All Stakeholders One of the strongest concerns about arctic tourism is the insufficient involvement of local people in the activities affecting their lives. A dialogue between the tourism industry, government agencies and local representatives needs to take place in order to evaluate the costs and benefits of tourism for particular communities. At the same time, available research methods and data must be considered to get a broader picture of the impacts tourism has alone, and together with other activities, on the environment and on cultures. Establishing a baseline reference will help to judge future developments more accurately. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 9

13 VI. All Recommendations by Workshop Theme This section shows the recommendations of all sessions in the way they were put forward. As most of the recommendations were not revised with participants, wording might seem confusing. However, due to a lack of opportunity to review the document, it was agreed to maintain the original character of the statements. (Note: recommendations written in italics are not part of the original 10 Recommendations to the World Ecotourism Summit.) 1. Arctic Ecotourism and Conservation 1.1. Recommendations for ecotourism in protected areas Recommendation What: Marketing of protected areas and ecotourism should reflect science, should create realistic expectations in tourists (activities and crowding), should respect culture and local communities, and should promote the full range of values of protected areas and nature experiences. How: to ensure there is ongoing communications with local communities to implement appropriate and respectful marketing use scientific information as the basis for developing marketing materials develop a code of practice for responsible marketing by operators, including photos demonstrating appropriate marketing. It should be internationally available, on a website, and developed through a regionally adapted stakeholder process (Australia is doing this). protected area managers and operators should establish a centralized photo library for free marketing use for all operators using a specific protected area use marketing to manage visitor use in protected areas responsible marketing should be a part of certification criteria trade associations (and others) should educate their members about responsible marketing Who: tour operators, trade associations, protected area managers Recommendation Governments/ nature managers must plan protected area use for the long term: begin with baseline assessment set long-term environmental goals, by deciding through a broad process how the area should be in a generation (desired state must be specific, for example population status and distribution for key species, amount of habitat disturbance) select management tools (activity restrictions, zoning, etc.) and plan activities (site, amount, type) to reach this goal/ desired state Part of the planning and management process for protected areas must be a long term, broad stakeholder process to determine: - what is the purpose of the protected area - what is the desired state - tools - awareness raising The process should be set up and funded by government, but should be as inclusive as possible (industry, local communities, NGOs, etc) Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 10

14 Recommendation An effective method for conservation of biodiversity, for wilderness and for the unique spiritual and cultural values of the north is through the establishment and effective management of protected areas. The ecotourism industry and its clientele are prime beneficiaries of protected areas and their ecotourism opportunities. Therefore, we recommend that the ecotourism industry and its operators mobilize their resources to promote the creation and effective management of protected areas by local and national governments and by private interests. Some vehicles and mechanisms that could serve the industry and its operators to become a collective force for the creation of protected areas are, for example, formal ecotourism business associations, groups of like-minded tour operators, municipal and local community organization, non- government organizations. Recommendation Ecotourism operators need to develop capacity for high-level political lobbying on planning and conservation issues, including both establishment and use of protected areas. Recommendation What: Educate the public about and mobilize it on the value of PAs and sustainable ecotourism Who: Park managers, NGOs, ecotourism operators How: - market research, including polls - educational material - communication (letters to the editor in newspapers, media strategy) - visitor centers (that also focus on conservation and use issues, not just straight ecological information) / interpretation (conservation focus) - more capacity on advocacy and public awareness - trade associations should educate members/ others on incorporating issues into the product and interpretation - as a requirement of any certification program - information tours by park managers and tour operators Recommendation What: Monitoring levels and impacts of use of PAs, incl. Ecotourism uses Who: Nature/ park managers, trade associations/ tour operators (collect statistics) How: - Funding and capacity (through user fees, scientific grants, government allocations) - Baseline assessment - Identify types and levels of uses - Indicators (pick circumpolar indicators? Process within WTO use what is already been done) - Monitoring plan (operators can participate, can be a condition of certification, tour operators collect information, take scientists out in the field for free, must be long term, time sequence data) - Information has to be transmitted back to managers and operators (operators should use the info) - Inform public User pays: Tour operators, and private users, should pay the costs of monitoring and assessment Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 11

15 1.2. Recommendation for ecotourism outside protected areas Considering the economic situation and constraints of remote arctic communities, and the legitimacy of these peoples right to live and subsist in these areas, and the need to protect and conserve arctic ecosystems from negative impacts. We recommend that the governments of arctic countries 1) Simplify current multi-permitting systems 2) Support land-use planning which recognizes the importance of ecotourism 3) adopt a unified code of conduct, which guides ecotourism activities Recommendations for partnerships for conservation 1) Partnership-building - good information - data gathering - establish appropriate (local culture, views, experiences) common goals and vision - phasing begin with core group, create momentum expand group, base of support, focus - create a forum for discussion - create a development plan - bring in outside participants/ assistance work, discussion, respecting other partners/ moderator opinions, funding initial success, government support/ lobbying, need for actual experience of good ecotourism and representatives, lining up partnerships before process 2) Create funding mechanisms - seed funding - need for an objective/ focus by the fundseeker - consideration of baseline aspects by fundseeker local solutions, flexibility 3) Maintaining organizational identity - re: conservation and environmental organizations What do we think of as traditional partnerships - define conservation within process - encourage non-traditional partnerships - encourage mutually beneficial partnerships (conservation, data gathering, marketing) - encourage work with research or academic institutes (develop criteria/ framework) - work towards a specific purpose (agreed upon) Partnerships for Conservation - promote conservation partnerships to share resources incorporate tourism issues into regional networks and agencies 1.4. Recommendation for ship-based ecotourism and conservation 1. Initiate an overall impact assessment (environmental, tourism, social) to help monitor and plan (1 st step: background research) 2. strict/uniform rules (svalbard as a potential model for the Arctic) Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 12

16 3. information/ research use (both scientific and general) cooperate with industry 4. Guidelines for visitors (clear, for different areas, who: WWF) 5. Against the collection of artifacts (short term act now, keep simple) 6. State of the art technology (least impacting technology, e.g. 4 stroke engines) 7. Certification programs for guides 8. Fees have to go toward local conservation throughout the Arctic 9. Create an industry association like IAATO 10. Inspectors on random visits 11. Protection of coastline 2. Arctic Ecotourism and Communities 2.1. Recommendation for the government s role in community-friendly ecotourism What: To improve the regulatory environment. Increase the knowledgability of government officials about tourism and responsible tourism in particular. How: Tourism businesses and associations should organize and demonstrate the economic contributions of tourism to their regions. Other recommendations from this workshop: What: To improve the regulatory environment Increase the knowledgability of government officials about tourism and responsible tourism in particular. How: By tourism businesses and associations should organize and demonstrate the economic contributions of tourism to their regions What: Sustainability is often only a political word in tourism. The understanding of its contents should be increased. How: Expert education for governments institutions, tourist organisations etc. Networking of (ecotourism) entrepreneurs and than support applications together for projects ---- What: Government together with arctic ecotourism cluster make guidelines on how to naje tourist products which are sustainable and how to behave with the local people. How: More cooperation between the government and the arctic ecotourism cluster. The main reason is to get more knowledge about each other and how to conserve the arctic area. win-win situation ---- What: Government simplify the administrative complexity imposed by the current procedures. This includes the procedures required for business reporting, taxation and assistance. How: Governments should do the work and not pretend to work by imposing more surveys, questionnaires, forms, etc. from which nothing results at the local level other than abstract national statistics that may satisfy some bureaucratic curiosity that never have a positive impact at the local leve What: Guarantee together with R + E ecotourism cluster (local people, product providers, tour operators, agencies, etc. ) that people living in the Arctic could make sustainable living by profitable sustainable (eco)tourism. How: Creating together with the ecotourism industry a common vision of the desired future in the local region. According to vision create funding programs Provide tourism cluster info to efficie.. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 13

17 2.2. Recommendations for strengthening community-based ecotourism in the Arctic A bottom-up initiative comprising of individual and collective consultations is required, where community norms and values are respected, and training is provided to build local capacity in tourism matters. Other recommendations from this workshop: 1. Models across the Arctic need to vary (i.e. need a varied toolbox for different regions) 2. Need own rules at the community level 3. Tools should start at the local level from the bottom up, in order to address community fears 4. Locals are the experts and they should coordinate programmes 5. Ecotourism is a way of life, where the sharing of nature and love is necessary 6. Discussions should start on a one-to-one basis before moving to group level 7. A Business must be started 8. Model companies should network, i.e. participants with scientists, etc. 9. Ideas and lessons must be shared 10. A tourist perspective needs to be included in order to ensure that tourist expectations are fulfilled 11. Government support is important, but subsidies should be limited 12. Workbooks such as how to or choices and decision are needed 13. Shared values such as Land and Water ownership must be put on the table 14. If community problems arise, invite all players to meeting and help bring out individual voices 15. Look at existing resources to ensure that business knowledge is there, and only bring in outsider to overcome the lack of local references 16. Examine activities at the regional level, and seek to develop networking between communities 17. Old rundown buildings should be renovated and used as a focal point (e.g. accommodations, activity place, eco-museum, etc.) 18. Clients need to be involved in the learning process 19. A bottom-up initiative comprising of individual and collective consultations is required, where community norms and values are respected, and training is essential to overcome the lack of local references. 20. A pro-active approach to decision making is needed when costs and tourist numbers are an issue 21. Benefits must stay in the local community 2.3. Recommendations for ship-based tourism and communities Restructure federal/ national cruise ship licensing system to: consult with communities identify and generate economic benefits to communities utilize local guides within communities pre-set acceptable environment emissions and waste generation monitor environmental impacts utilize experts to interpret the environment and local communities in partnership with local communities identify potential environmental and community impacts identify preferred and maximum size of ship and number of passengers establish community communication mechanism, and offer community the opportunity to reject proposals for becoming new destinations from cruise ships if the costs outweigh the benefits, from the community perspective. Add incentives for operators that go beyond license conditions so that good operators are not penalized by the actions or poor performances of others. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 14

18 Other recommendations from the workshop: Communities and cruise ship operators should work together to establish a set of guidelines for sustainable cruise ship operation in the Arctic with particular emphasis on community involvement and benefits. This could be integrated with proposed LINKS program. Produce a set of maps for cruise ship operators that identify preferred cruise routes, destinations and landing sites, as well as no go areas. Communities should identify and commit to dates that are appropriate for visits by cruise ships, and should adequately inform and prepare community members before visits. Communities and cruise ship operators should establish regular communications mechanisms to share information about issues, potential problems, and opportunities for improvement. Local communities should develop sustainable development strategies, which then should be regionally harmonized. Appropriate tourism agencies should perform market research to identify cruise ship passenger needs and preferences, with an emphasis on how passengers would like to relate to local communities. For example, market research could explore whether passengers want to purchase local art and meet the artist who produced it. Establish a set of Arctic workshops that bring cruise ship operators and communities together to collect community perspectives on cruise ship operations and how they can be harmonized with local community needs. Use models already developed, such as those by Norway and Alaska. Establish an arts on board program on cruise ships designed to provide information about community endorsed experiences at the ship destinations and interpret community cultures on board. The Arts on Board program would be delivered by a community representative funded by the cruise ships Recommendations for hunting and fishing as ecotourism 1. Develop a set of principles that allow hunting and fishing activities to be considered ecotourism. Potential Principles Activity is ecologically sustainable and should o maintain ecosystem balance o contribute to conservation, and ideally restore damaged ecosystems The activity always interprets traditional culture as part of broader interpretation of nature and culture. Activity is managed by a local aboriginal guide. Animals are used by local inhabitants for practical purposes. Activity does not restrict the rights of local aboriginal inhabitants. Activity should follow humane ethics consistent with local customs. Activity is kept separated from wildlife viewing. 2. Consult with operators and consumers to see if a. Hunting and fishing operators would use ecotourism in their marketing b. Consumers would buy the product as ecotourism 3. If consultation is positive, convert principles into c. A code of practice for operators d. Ecotourism labelling and certification programs. 4. Right to hunt and fish must belong to local aboriginal inhabitants. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 15

19 5. Hunting and fishing activities should be controlled through eco-labelling 3. Arctic Ecotourism and Certification 3.1. Recommendations for ecotourism certification and protected areas Any certification system for ecotourism operators should preferably be owned and run by a combination of travel industry and conservation/aboriginal NGOs. Certified ecotourism operators should get preferential access to protected areas where tourism activities are allowed. Any certification system for arctic ecotourism operators or protected areas should promote and support the idea of zoning for amounts and types of activities including reference areas, areas for non-motorized traffic, no-fly zones, etc. Any certification system for arctic ecotourism operators should be developed and implemented with active participation by protected area managers and national/regional protected area authorities. Governments should establish a group of protected area managers from the Arctic to develop principles and practices for managing tourism in arctic protected areas, in accordance with IUCN Protected Area Categories. The group would exchange information on best practices in the arctic countries, build capacity, and develop standards, with certification of protected areas as a possible tool. The group should build on existing initiatives such as the US Park Service partnership with Russian zapovedniks and park-to-park partnerships Any certification program for arctic ecotourism operators should complement and support government regulation and management of protected areas. For example, certification programs should considering focusing on areas where park managers don t have jurisdiction (river rafting, in some areas) or where enforcement is inadequate due to lack of resources. Any arctic certification program should require and education and information component developed in cooperation with protected area managers for guests and staff. Certified ecotourism operators that operate in the Russian Arctic should ensure that part of the certification fee/money used for certification must be put towards the maintenance of Russian arctic protected areas Recommendations for ecotourism certification and communities Outside operators work with communities and large weighting with certification go to companies which transfer high economic and cultural benefits. Certification must improve both business performance and self-sufficiency. Starting businesses should look for mentors, perhaps from outside, and accept and expect slow growth. Recognise two subjects: o certifying tourism businesses that operate in communities or o certifying community-based businesses What is the object of certification? -> competence. Make sure it involves and recognizes local and indigenous interests. Stress the importance of developing locally appropriate standards, make it a starting point certifiers must be local organisations certification is about more than business -> allow progression in starting in community-based and appropriate tourism local cooperation is mandatory. Recognising that outside businesses already operate in the Arctic, certification or other tools and resources must require local input. focus on capacity building o start certifying local cultural activities first Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 16

20 develop tools to recognize and protect legally local tourism products. Products based on culture must have an approval from that culture. Mentorships are necessary to develop new business sustainably. certification needs to be used as capacity-building and self-suffiency tool. governments should be educated to see the need and value of certification leading to selfsufficiency Recommendations for ecotourism certification, marketing and management What: Prepare the arctic-based tourism industry and its stakeholders for a future sustainable tourism certification program specific to the Arctic. How: Consider adapting the WWF Ten Principles for Arctic Tourism into a framework for a future arctic sustainable tourism certification program. The Code should cover the environmental, social, cultural, business (including customer service) aspects. Develop capacity building programs to assist operators in meeting the Code, featuring regional workshops that mix training and input into the structure and incentives of the future certification program, and a supporting manual or kit. Develop a mechanism to link existing national certification programs operating in the Arctic into a circum-polar program. Create incentives for joining the certification program. Promote the framework, incentives and process for a future certification program. Prepare a project proposal for relevant funding applications. Who: An arctic coalition on tourism that includes regional representation from nature and cultural tourism industry, government, environment and community (including indigenous) Summarized recommendation for ship-based ecotourism in the Arctic What: To protect and preserve the arctic marine and coastal environment, and to ensure the sustainability of ship-based ecotourism in the Arctic. 1) That arctic state authorities be encouraged to designate marine protected areas in particularly sensitive and in biologically significant arctic areas, and to ensure that port state authorities enforce rules and regulations on ship activities within designated arctic areas. 2) That arctic state authorities harmonise regulatory standards across jurisdictions in the interests of establishing consistent non-conflicting standards that effectively protect the environment. 3) That arctic state authorities work progressively to provide sufficien waste management infrastructure such as waste receiving facilities to enable ship-based ecotourism operators to mitigate their environmental impact. How: A network or association of arctic ship-based ecotourism operators working in partnership and alliance with like-minded stakeholders to address these shared issues of concern. Who: Arctic state authorities; ship-based ecotourism operators and cruise ships operating in the Arctic; other interested stakeholders. Summary Report - Arctic Ecotourism Conference 17