Need for Hospitality Professionals as Ecotourism Industry Booms

Consumers demand for green travel experiences forces industry to adapt; create more jobs

Edmonton, AB - March 17, 2010 - According to statistics from the International Ecotourism Society (TIES), since the 1990s, ecotourism industry has been growing 20% - 34% per year. What constitutes as ecotourism? The term refers to a type of responsible travel to natural environments that aim to improve local economies, people and natural areas. Some more specific characteristics of ecotourism include:

• Providing a beneficial experience for both the hosts and the tourists.


• Creating a positive economic benefit for the local hosts.


•  Educating the visitors about the host's environmental, cultural, political and social situation.


• Making money to put directly towards conservation efforts.


• Minimizing the ecological and cultural "footprint" of the tourists.

In 2004, a study revealed that worldwide ecotourism was growing three times faster than the conventional tourism industry. This means the number of jobs in the ecotourism industry is increasing as well and will continue to rise in the coming years.

Pairing a hospitality background with a love for ecotourism opens up a world of opportunity. Career paths can include:

• Eco-spa Manager


• Ecotourism Operations Expert


• Organic Caterer


• Eco-Friendly Hotel Manager


• Operator of Restaurant Focused on Sustainable Food

Ecotourism jobs are available worldwide and include countries both near and far - from Canada to Mozambique! Completing the Hospitality program at Reeves College is an excellent investment for those looking to pursue a career in this rewarding and exciting field.