How does tourism change indigenous communities?

Question

In good or bad ways? Please provide case studies if you know any?

Answer 1

How does it change indigenous communities?

It provides a sudden stream of money from the outside world into the community. The money comes at a price.

1. There will be increased pollution in the area. With an increase in the number of people in an area, there will be a proportional increase in pollution. Pollution from transportation and garbage come to mind. If there are speeling accomodations, pollution from dirty water, heating, electrocity, and similar things could negatively change the area.

2. If tourism is unregulated, it can have a negative effect on the ecosystem of the area. People hiking through a forest will throw garbage, threatening animals. They pick and trample the plants. Another good example is the cruise ships in Alaska. More than once, a ship has been caught dumping sewage in the local waters. If people fish or hunt in the area, it could put a heavy burden on the local wildlife populations if an area is not prepared to regulate the activity.

3. Tourist destinations change with what society feels is cool. If the local economy become dependant on tourism dollars and all of a sudden tourists quit coming, then it could cause financial difficulties to those who were anticipating the money or who depend on the money.

Just a few thoughts. Best of luck to you!!