Ecotourism & people Essay Example for Free

Ecotourism people Essay Ecotourism is a branch of tourism which seeks to extend the concept of sustainability to the tourism industry. In recent years, concerns such as the planets sustainability, preservation of its natural resources, balancing human activities with Mother Natures needs and so on, have reached all-time highs. It is exactly concerns such as these which have led to the development and growth of ecotourism. There is no single universally accepted definition of ecotourism. Indeed, several researchers, tourism providers, environmental agencies and local bodies have formulated different definitions, which vary slightly in their scope and breadth. However, three key elements are central to most of the definitions encountered in a review of the existing literature, namely: sustainability of the ecotourism location; creating an appreciation among ecotourists of the need to preserve the natural environment; creating respect and/or contributing to the development of the local cultures (Eastwood, 2009). These characteristics of ecotourism quite obviously place it into sharp contrast with traditional mass tourism. Mass tourism often attracts tourists to locations that have been extensively developed in terms of infrastructure, facilities, communication networks and so on. In doing so, the natural and physical environment of such locations is dramatically altered, in ways that are irreversible. Moreover, large amounts of energy may be consumed to sustain such establishments. In contrast, ecotourism seeks maximum preservation of the natural environment of designated locations. Indeed, the very charm for an ecotourist lies in visiting a location that still remains largely untouched by modern development. Mass tourism also makes no claims to educate tourists with regard to the environment. The main offering of mass tourism is typically entertainment and leisure. Individuals availing this form of tourism typically use their holidays to take a temporary break from their commitments, choosing to relax and unwind during the interval before returning to their routine lifestyle. Unless the tourists specifically choose to embark on an educational journey in areas of personal interest, most journeys do not have serious objectives, and this factor is reflected in the marketing appeals used by mass tourism providers. Finally, while tourists in the realm of mass tourism are most certainly exposed to different cultures and people, this interaction is generally viewed as more of an exotic exposure rather than anything more meaningful or substantial. There is no pressing need felt by the tourists or the mass tourism providers to contribute to the different communities visited or to be concerned about their development. On the other hand, most genuine ecotourism initiatives are geared to the development of host communities, with long term planning and financial resources being channeled towards this objective (Schellhorn, 2010). Part Two: The Ecotourist Experience The unique aspects of the ecotourist experience and its implications for host communities are explored next. Motivations are not homogenous: It would be misleading to assume that all tourists visiting ecotourism locations have the same motivations. An analysis of tourists at Al Maha, an ecotourist resort in Dubai, revealed that the average tourist is simply motivated to come and enjoy the desert setting more than anything else. Many of the tourists are rich individuals, primarily businessmen and women, who simply desire an exotic temporary accommodation as an alternate to hotels in the city. While at the resort, such individuals do not sever ties with their corporations, or typically immerse themselves in the indigenous culture as the ideal ecotourist is expected to do. Another segment of tourists at this resort consists of honeymooning couples looking for a romantic getaway – again, not the stereotype of the dedicated ecotourist (Ryan Stewart, 2009). Since the motivation itself is lacking, the Al Maha ecotourist resort is hardly able to change the tourists perceptions regarding sustainability or the need to preserve and appreciate the natural environment and local cultures. Scale of development: The Al Maha resort example discussed above also raises an import concern: the scale of development within ecotourism locations. Al Maha is extensively projected as an ecotourist destination; however, it has been extensively developed, almost resembling a luxury resort! The resort also consumes vast amounts of energy in maintaining its facilities, which runs somewhat contrary to the concept of sustainability of resources. Those in support of large scale ecotourist destinations claim that expansion of such projects is almost a prerequisite if such projects are required to have a substantial impact globally (Buckley, 2009). Tourist behavior may be counter-productive: A study conducted at three ecotourist destinations in the Himalayas revealed that, in some instances, so called ecotourists were actually creating compounding problems of pollution by littering and improper disposal of non-biodegradable items. Ironically, the management of hotels was doing no better either – discharge of untreated waste water was rampant (Batta, 2006). Such behavior is in complete violation of the spirit of ecotourism. It not only spoils the experience of true ecotourists who may also be frequenting such resorts, but is also a social issue since it creates discomfort for the local residents. New income may not be channeled in sustainable activities: Whereas income generation for the local community members at ecotourism locations is an expected and desired outcome, this new income may defeat the objectives of sustainability if it is channeled in undesired activities. For example, a case study conducted in Brazil and Peru revealed that locals used the income generated from employment at ecotourism locations to engage in needless, extravagant consumption of goods. Moreover, earning income from this means did not deter them from engaging in activities such as hunting or unsustainable exploitation of natural resources (Stronza Pegas, 2008). This study highlights the need to educate the local communities involved in ecotourism initiatives if the full benefits of these initiatives are to be realized. The negative impacts of overcrowding: The ecotourists experience is most fulfilling if the location is perceived to offer a serene, calm environment, where one can get away from hustle-and-bustle and really connect with nature. This is precisely the reason why overcrowding can seriously deter the ecotourists enjoyment of his/her experience (Ormsby Mannle, 2006). Managers of ecotourism locations are placed in a quandary, particularly if they are aiming to generate significant amount of funds from attracting tourists. On the one hand, they want their destination to become popular and attract the optimal level of tourists; on the other hand, if overcrowding occurs, then the destination loses its appeal for true ecotourists. Ethical dilemmas: In her article entitled Ethics and ecotourism: connections and conflicts, Stark (2002) proposed a series of questions pertaining to ethical concerns in the realm of ecotourism. A few summarized questions, pertinent especially to those in the tourism industry who provide travel packages claiming to be ecotours, are as follows: What is the carrying capacity of a specific site (or in other words, how many tourists it can support), beyond which the local environment would be prone to harm? Is ecotourism simply being projected as a fashion statement or something which is in? Are local cultures simply being objectified rather than truly appreciated? What are the net costs and benefits of ecotourism activities? Do local communities benefit, and are they involved at each level of implementation? Is care being taken, particularly in developing countries, that sites which have rich traditional or cultural heritage are not being exploited for commercial purposes? These are just some of the numerous questions which come to the fore when choosing a destination for ecotourism and designing and implementing a strategy which is ethically sound. It is an accepted fact that the development of any form of tourism, even ecotourism, has long-lasting impacts on local communities. Therefore, it is vital for ecotourism development agencies to take the locals on board and determine in advance what nature and level of changes are acceptable to them (Butcher, 2006). Unsuitable nature of education provisions: Stem et. al (2003), in an article entitled Ecotourism and education for sustainability: a critical approach, that most of the insights and educational experienced provided at ecotourism locations currently are not up to par and sufficient to generate a proper understanding of sustainability and environmentally friendly activities among tourists. Some tours provide theoretical data, others provide adventure and thrill, whereas still others merely encourage tourists to immerse themselves in their surroundings and appreciate natural beauty. What is lacking is the kind of education which would motivate attitudinal and behavioral change among tourists, not only while they are on tour but something which they can appreciate, act upon and tell others about as well once the tour has ended. Longitudinal studies could be employed to find out whether ecotourists actually change and maintain their changed behavior over an extended period of time after a given trip, but such studies have largely been lacking to date (Buckley, 2009).

Male Circumcision: A Social And Medical Misconception Essay -- essays

Male Circumcision: A Social and Medical Misconception University of Johns Hopkins Introduction Male circumcision is defined as a surgical procedure in which the prepuce of the penis is separated from the glands and excised. (Mosby, 1986) Dating as far back as 2800 BC, circumcision has been performed as a part of religious ceremony, as a puberty or premarital rite, as a disciplinary measure, as a reprieve against the toxic effects of vaginal blood, and as a mark of slavery. (Milos & Macris, 1992) In the United States, advocacy of circumcision was perpetuated amid the Victorian belief that circumcision served as a remedy against the ills of masturbation and systemic disease. (Lund, 1990) The scientific community further reinforced these beliefs by reporting the incidence of hygiene-related urogenital disorders to be higher in uncircumcised men. Circumcision is now a societal norm in the United States. Routine circumcision is the most widely practiced pediatric surgery and an estimated one to one-and-a-half million newborns, or 80 to 90 percent of the population, are circumcised. (Lund, 1990) Despite these statistics, circumcision still remains a topic of great debate. The medical community is examining the need for a surgical procedure that is historically based on religious and cultural doctrine and not of medical necessity. Possible complications of circumcision include hemorrhage, infection, surgical trauma, and pain. (Gelbaum, 1992) Unless absolute medical indications exist, why should male infants be exposed to these risks? In essence, our society has perpetuated an unnecessary surgical procedure that permanently alters a normal, healthy body part. This paper examines the literature surrounding the debate over circumcision, delineates the flaws that exist in the research, and discusses the nurse's role in the circumcision debate. Review of Literature Many studies performed worldwide suggest a relationship between lack of circumcision and urinary tract infection (UTI). In 1982, Ginsberg and McCracken described a case series of infants five days to eight months of age hospitalized with UTI. (Thompson, 1990) Of the total infant population hospitalized with UTI, sixty-two were males and only three were circumcised. (Thompson, 1990) Based on this information, the researchers speculated that, "the uncircumcised male has an increased susceptibili... ...a cultural and religious ritual and has been maintained over the decades despite the risks associated with this nonessential, surgical procedure. The current literature does not reveal a need for circumcision in the neonate. However, circumcision in the male neonate will continue to be a topic of wide debate until the risks can be shown, without a doubt, to outweigh the benefits. Circumcision has truly become a social norm in our country that the medical community attempts to justify with weak and inaccurate research. According to the ANA, it is not the role of the nurse to decide for the parent on the need for circumcision in the infant. Rather, it is the nurse's role to present all of the information in an unbiased manner and remain an advocate of the rights of the patient. Nurse's need to realistically analyze the data available and decide if they truly are an advocate, or are merely following in the steps of their colleagues. References American Nurses Association (1991). Standards of clinical nursing practice. Washington, D.C.: American Nurses Association. Gelbaum, I. (1992). Circumcision to educate not indoctrinate-a mandate for certified nurse-midwives. Journal of Nurse- Male Circumcision: A Social And Medical Misconception Essay -- essays Male Circumcision: A Social and Medical Misconception University of Johns Hopkins Introduction Male circumcision is defined as a surgical procedure in which the prepuce of the penis is separated from the glands and excised. (Mosby, 1986) Dating as far back as 2800 BC, circumcision has been performed as a part of religious ceremony, as a puberty or premarital rite, as a disciplinary measure, as a reprieve against the toxic effects of vaginal blood, and as a mark of slavery. (Milos & Macris, 1992) In the United States, advocacy of circumcision was perpetuated amid the Victorian belief that circumcision served as a remedy against the ills of masturbation and systemic disease. (Lund, 1990) The scientific community further reinforced these beliefs by reporting the incidence of hygiene-related urogenital disorders to be higher in uncircumcised men. Circumcision is now a societal norm in the United States. Routine circumcision is the most widely practiced pediatric surgery and an estimated one to one-and-a-half million newborns, or 80 to 90 percent of the population, are circumcised. (Lund, 1990) Despite these statistics, circumcision still remains a topic of great debate. The medical community is examining the need for a surgical procedure that is historically based on religious and cultural doctrine and not of medical necessity. Possible complications of circumcision include hemorrhage, infection, surgical trauma, and pain. (Gelbaum, 1992) Unless absolute medical indications exist, why should male infants be exposed to these risks? In essence, our society has perpetuated an unnecessary surgical procedure that permanently alters a normal, healthy body part. This paper examines the literature surrounding the debate over circumcision, delineates the flaws that exist in the research, and discusses the nurse's role in the circumcision debate. Review of Literature Many studies performed worldwide suggest a relationship between lack of circumcision and urinary tract infection (UTI). In 1982, Ginsberg and McCracken described a case series of infants five days to eight months of age hospitalized with UTI. (Thompson, 1990) Of the total infant population hospitalized with UTI, sixty-two were males and only three were circumcised. (Thompson, 1990) Based on this information, the researchers speculated that, "the uncircumcised male has an increased susceptibili... ...a cultural and religious ritual and has been maintained over the decades despite the risks associated with this nonessential, surgical procedure. The current literature does not reveal a need for circumcision in the neonate. However, circumcision in the male neonate will continue to be a topic of wide debate until the risks can be shown, without a doubt, to outweigh the benefits. Circumcision has truly become a social norm in our country that the medical community attempts to justify with weak and inaccurate research. According to the ANA, it is not the role of the nurse to decide for the parent on the need for circumcision in the infant. Rather, it is the nurse's role to present all of the information in an unbiased manner and remain an advocate of the rights of the patient. Nurse's need to realistically analyze the data available and decide if they truly are an advocate, or are merely following in the steps of their colleagues. References American Nurses Association (1991). Standards of clinical nursing practice. Washington, D.C.: American Nurses Association. Gelbaum, I. (1992). Circumcision to educate not indoctrinate-a mandate for certified nurse-midwives. Journal of Nurse-

Barangay Assenbly Minutes Essay

I. MINUTES OF THE BARANGAY ASSEMBLY Opening prayer was led by Purok President Charito Sombito. Thus, singing of Pambansang Awit was preceded. Punong Barangay Emelda J. Banguanga acknowledged the presence of P/Inps. Robert Dejucos of PS2, Lina Magbanua and party represented the City Mayor’s Office, Barangay 2m Scholars, ALS Learners, Purok Officials of 5 Puroks, concern citizens and Honorable Mona Dia Jardin. First presenter was Kagawad Noe M. Romero Sr., Chairman Committee on Peace and Order; he reported that from May to October 2012 the number of cases filed in the Barangay is 37 included the VAW-C cases. In drug related cases, about 15 persons apprehended from April to October 2012 based on the drug inventory receipt of property seized issued by the PDEA Operatives and CAIDSOTG. Barangay Kagawad Ramon E. Jamelo, Chairman Committee on Education and Infrastructure, reported that the Barangay has already had 27 Barangay Scholars enrolled at Bacolod City College which is a continuous program of the Barangay. 55 Preschoolers enrolled at the Barangay Day Care Center, about 50 out-of-school youth catered by the ALS program of the Barangay, and 10 scholars facilitated by the Barangay through the TESDA skill training program. He said that this program was designed to counter and eliminate one of the problems of the Barangay which is drugs. On the other hand, on the infrastructure and developmental projects, he enumerated some of the projects implemented such as the construction of footwalk at Purok Balinday and Purok Lampirong, declogging of drainage system at Purok Sigay, construction of artesian well at Purok Tahong, distribution of jetmatic pump (replacement) at 5 Puroks, and procurement of various electrical supplies distributed to 5 Puroks. Barangay Kagawad Ben Jake C. Barilla, Chairman Committee on Finance and Livelihood program reported the financial status of the Barangay from May to October 2012. See attached document for the financial report. And as for the livelihood program, he informed that about 35 indigent benefited the trisikad rent-to-own program of the Barangay. SK Chairman Lovely May O. Rile, Chairman Committee on Youth and Sports Development, reported the various activities implemented by the SK Council from April to October 2012. Some of them are the SK Socio-Cultural Presentation â€Å"Search for Miss SK 2012† which held last March 2012, SK Summer League 2012 last May 2012, Supported the Barangay Scholars for the payment of their tuition fees and ALS Program of the Barangay. SK Council also sponsors the procurement of t-shirt for the Senior Citizens of the Barangay during the celebration of the Barangay Day last March 2012. She also added that for the December activity, the SK Council planned to have an Inter-Purok Belen Making Contest and a Socio-Cultural Presentation â€Å"Search for Mr. SK 2012. Barangay Kagawad Victor D. Aliguin, Chairman Committee on Health, Sanitation and Social Services, reported his accomplishment report such as the conduct of bloodletting activity, nutrition month celebration, anti-rabies vaccination, procurement of medicines intended for indigent families, balik-MMR (9 mos. – 8 yrs.) (6 yrs – 14 yrs), garantisadong pambata (GP- 6 to 11 mos.) Vit.A (12 to 59 mos), distribution of micro-nutrients powder, weekly feeding program, brigada eskwela together with the Police Station 2 Personnel, anti-dengue campaign, pabasa sa nutrisyon program and attendance to various training seminars. Lastly Punong Barangay Emelda J. Banguanga reported some of the programs, projects and activities that had been delivered by the Barangay such as the effective implementation of Barangay Budget for 2012 which already reported by Kgd. Barilla, passage of Barangay Resolution approving the Annual Investment Plan of Barangay 2 for the year 2013, full support extended to the education program, livelihood program, health and social services program, infrastructure program and diversion program through socio-cultural activities, facilitated the 125 additional household targeted beneficiaries, procurement of various supplies and materials for Barangay.

The European Nations And The Colonization Of The New World

The European Nations short after the discovery of the New World sought out to colonize it for befits of there own nations. The three European Nations most involved in the colonization of the New World was Spain, France and England but each for there own unique reasons. The Spanish, the French and the English desire for wealth, religious expansion, and political advantages motivated them to attempt to colonize the New World. Although they were all able to set foot on the New World some where able to colonize enabling them to befit there own Nation from it. The most successful in using the New World to the greatest advantage of its Nation was Spain. However, primary motivation of the Spanish to colonize the New World was wealth and to bring Christianity to the non-believers of the New World. The Spanish unlike other European nations was the most successful in colonizing the New World. Their success was a result of the Army of Seasoned solders and efficient techniques. The Army of seasoned Solders, conquistadors, was eager to profit wealth from the New World since the last of the Muslims had been abolished from Spain. The Spanish used efficient techniques previously used to control newly concord lands applying those techniques to the New World gave them great success. As a result by 1521 the Spanish had successfully invaded the Aztec Empire in Mexico. Their success was brought on by using advanced technologies such as guns and horse that the Aztec did not have. The SpanishShow MoreRelatedImperialism Dbq Ap European History846 Words   |  4 PagesBetween the period from 1880 to 1914, European powers went after overseas empires in Africa. The governments and political leaders of the European powers believed that this colonization of the African empires was necessary to maintain their global influence. A second group of people supposed that African colonization was the result of the greedy Capitalists who \only cared for new resources and markets. The third group of people claimed it to be their job to enlighten and educate the uncivilizedRead MoreEuropean Justification of Colonization of Asia and Africa Essay828 Words   |  4 PagesThe principle justification offered by the Europeans for their colonization of Asia Africa was the moral and techn ological superiority of the western world. As the Europeans saw it, the spread of the European way of life would substantially increase living standards for the colonized. While economic reasons were obviously the primary impetus for colonial expansion, the Europeans believed that they were not only improving the natives’ conditions, but they were saving their mortal souls by bringingRead MoreHow Did Contact Between The European Arrivals And The Native Peoples Of The Americas Affect Both Groups?1545 Words   |  7 Pagesbetween the European arrivals and the native peoples of the Americas affect both groups? Europeans brought to the Americas catastrophic diseases that killed millions and decimated native populations, who possessed no immunity to the illnesses. The Europeans also had deliberate policies of subjugation and extermination, by which they brutally tortured or murdered natives due to the Europeans history of brutality in war and their consideration of the natives as no more than savages. The Europeans alsoRead MoreEssay about European Colonization During the Nineteenth Century685 Words   |  3 Pagesthese nations compete with each other for survival. The most important motivation for Europeans to colonize during the 19th and 20th centuries was to strengthen their own countries in order to compete with the other European powers. One of the major ways a colony can strengthen a nation is by providing it with another economic market. As a result of Industrialization, production was too high for consumer demand in Europe. Jules Ferry wrote an appeal to the French, urging colonization. In hisRead MoreAfrican Slavery And The New World s Demographic Profile1014 Words   |  5 Pagesmaintenance, acquisition, and expansion of colony in one territory by a political power from another territory. It is a set of unequal relationships between the colonial power and the colony and often between the colonists and the indigenous population. Colonization is the act of setting up a colony away from one s place of origin. Colonists settled British North America for different reasons. Some came for profits; others came for religious freedom. For those colonies established for profit, the BritishRead MoreEuropean Colonialism: Civilizations Ruined1491 Words   |  6 PagesEuropean Colonialism has been around since the late 15th century and their model for colonialism will exist for many years to come. Colonization could be considered to start as far back as the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. However, this colonization model was not near as deadly as the European model (Louis). The ancient civilizations educated, advanced, and motivated their colonies to succeed. The European model falls far short of the standard set in past years. This model forRead MoreWhy Did The Muslim World?1162 Words   |  5 PagesBeginning in the 15th Century, nations such as Spain, Portugal, Germany, Britain, and the Netherlands started exploring for new lands and colonizing them. Driven for power, trade, or expansion, many European powers colonized the New World. Yet when looking at the Muslim contemporaries, the Ottoman, Persian and Mughal Empires did not set sail for new land like their Western counterparts. Why did the Muslim world not partake in exploration and colonization of the New World, despite having equivalent wealthRead MoreColonialism And Its Effects On African Americans1241 Words   |  5 Pages20th centuries, European countries had snatched away most of the lands in Africa from the people of African descent. They felt that they had the right to claim these foreign lands in order to use them for their own reasons. The Europeans considered themselves as far more superior and better than everyone else. They decided to colonize their lands and treated the Africans as the inferior race from then on. Not only did the status of African people become inferior after the colonization, but they wereRead MoreEffects Of Colonialism On Native Peoples1072 Words   |  5 Pages The Effects of Colonialism on Native Peoples Colonialism has had major effects on different countries throughout the years. Europeans were a major cause of these horrid events. Colonization will cause a country to lose the culture they have developed and will strip the natives of their souls. As you read through this paper, you will discover the true horror of what colonialism is and how it strips the souls of the people in it. Stripping the Souls of the Natives It is known that invading a countryRead MoreThe Impact Of Slavery On Africa Socially, Economically, And Politically For Over 300 Years.969 Words   |  4 Pagespan-African unity and African’s leaders also lacked knowledge about the slave trade. In western societies Africa was viewed as unprogressive and needed a stronger sense of democracy. Slavery began the rise of modern racism because mindset of western Europeans about the color black. Africans were kidnapped from their native cultures and isolated to become easily controlled. The slave trade also impacted Africa economically. Agriculture was extremely affected, for the reason that there were fewer workers