Post by L Roebuck on Jun 13, 2008 18:31:07 GMT -5
Ecotourism In Belize Is Damaging Environmentally Sensitive Sites
ScienceDaily (Jun. 13, 2008) — Belize is an unforgettable mix of tropical waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins and deep limestone caves, making it one of the world’s most popular destinations for ecotourists. Peter Kumble of the University of Massachusetts Amherst is working with the government of Belize to limit the environmental impact of ecotourism on these sensitive natural wonders.
According to Kumble, one of the main things that ecotourists need to remember is how fragile these lush, tropical sites can be. “On a recent trek through underground caverns, which required swimming into the entrance, my students and I were asked to wear socks when we came out of the water,” says Kumble.
“Just the oils on our feet would have been enough to coat the rocks and prevent stalagmites and stalactites from growing on their surface.”
Full Article
ScienceDaily (Jun. 13, 2008) — Belize is an unforgettable mix of tropical waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins and deep limestone caves, making it one of the world’s most popular destinations for ecotourists. Peter Kumble of the University of Massachusetts Amherst is working with the government of Belize to limit the environmental impact of ecotourism on these sensitive natural wonders.
According to Kumble, one of the main things that ecotourists need to remember is how fragile these lush, tropical sites can be. “On a recent trek through underground caverns, which required swimming into the entrance, my students and I were asked to wear socks when we came out of the water,” says Kumble.
“Just the oils on our feet would have been enough to coat the rocks and prevent stalagmites and stalactites from growing on their surface.”
Full Article