NATIONAL ECOTOURISM PLAN 2016-2025
Volume 3 : Guidelines
MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND CULTURE
MALAYSIA
No. 2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6
Presint 5
Volume 1 contains the recommendations of this Plan. Recommendations are divided into two major categories, which are Strategies and Actions; and Ecotourism Clusters. An Implementation Action Plan maps the recommendations in a timeline to show which actions should be prioritised in order for other actions to take place.
The second volume of the report contains the outline of the study process, as well as a comprehensive analysis of the state of the ecotourism industry in Malaysia. The
indings of the analysis was used as the basis for the
formulation of recommendations. An examination of
the various deinitions of ecotourism, existing relevant
policies and plans, and current state of ecotourism marketing, investments and concessions are among the key contents of this volume.
The third volume of this Plan contains the appendices, which includes the guidelines and contents of recent review of the 1996 National Ecotourism Plan. The
guidelines make up the irst section, and are included
to help guide development and activities in ecotourism areas. The second section contains the review of the 1996 National Ecotourism Plan. The third section of this volume is a list of references.
The National Ecotourism Plan (NEP) 2016-2025
consists of 3 volumes:
Volume 1
Main Report
Volume 2
Technical Report
Volume 3
Guidelines
1
2
CHAPTER 1
Ecotourism Guidelines
Content
Page
A1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4
A2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4
Guidelines for Regional Site Planning & Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Architectural & Landscape Design Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
15 15 15 15 16
22 22 22 22 22
Content
Page
A3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4
A4 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4
Guidelines for Ensuring Local Community Participation Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Managing Tenders & Bids Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
26 26 26 26 26
Content
Page
Content
Page
Guidelines on Assessing Tourism Potential on SitesIntroduction Target Audience Objective Guidance References
Guidelines for Developing Ecolodges in National Parks Introduction
Objective
Planning, Design and Construction Operation
Community Development Conservation Role
Guidelines on Carrying Capacity & the Limits of Acceptable Change
Guidelines for Developing Ecolodges in National Parks Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on Managing Health & Safety Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on Solid Waste Management Introduction
Guidelines on Managing Health & Safety Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance References
Guidelines on Marine Parks & Islands Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on National Parks, Reserves & Other Forest Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Content
Page
Content
Page
Guidelines on Recreational Forest Reserves Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on Limestone Hills & Cave Sites Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Minimising Negative Environmental Impacts Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Minimising Negative Cultural Impacts Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on Rivers, Waterfalls & Lakes Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines on Beach Sites Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Monitoring Local Community Participation Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Guidelines for Infrastructure, Amenities & Maintanance Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance References
Guidelines on Montane Areas Introduction
Target Audience Objective Guidance
Assessment of the State of Implementation of the 1996 National
Ecotourism Plan
CHAPTER 2
Content
Page
Content
Page
A2.1 A2.2 A2.3 A2.4 A2.5
A2.6
A2.9 A2.10 A2.11 Review on the 37 Issues
Review on Action Plan
Action Plan on Implementing the National Ecotourism Plan Action Plan on Site Planning & Management
Action Plans on Institutional Strengthening & Capacity Building
Review on the 25 Guidelines of the National
Guideline on Ecosystem
Guidelines on Speciic Practices Review on Priority Projects 76
96 97 104 117
125
List of Tables
List of Figures
Contents
Contents
Page
Page
A1.1
A1.2 A1.3
A1.4
A2.1
A2.2 A2.3
A2.4
A2.5 A2.6 A2.7 A2.8
A2.9
A2.10 A2.11 A2.12 A2.13 A1.1
A1.2
A2.3 A1.4 A2.1
17
19 21
16
76
96 97
104
106 108 109 117
131
133 134 135 141 16
17
17 65 125
Development / Management Zones – Example: Endau-Rompin National Park
Format for Inventory of Ecotourism Attractions Guidelines Applicable according for Site Characteristics
Guidance
Review of issues highlighted in the 1996 National Ecotourism Plan
National Ecotourism Plan 1996 Action Plans Action Plans for Implementing the National Ecotourism Plan, 1996
The Action Plan for the Site Planning and
Management of the National Ecotourism Plan, 1996 Areas Protected Since 1995
Interventions on Ecotourism Sites Legal Status of Ecotourism Sites
The Action Plan for the Site Planning and
Management of the National Ecotourism Plan, 1996 Guideline 14 Interpretation, Education and Guide Training Assessment
Guideline 15 Codes of Ethics within the Profession The Implementation of Code of Conduct
The Implementation of Code of Ethics The Review of the Priority Projects Key Management Plan for Regional Planning of an
Ecotourism Site; Example of Endau-Rompin National Park
Development / Management Zones – Example: Endau-Rompin National Park
Simple Version of Site Zoning Plan
ACB - ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity
ACE - Adventure, Culture and Ecotourism
ADEX - Asia Dive Expo
AHP - ASEAN Heritage Park
APAP - Asian Protected Areas Partnership
ASEAN - Association of Southeast Asian Nations
ATSP - ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan
BA - Borneo Adventure
BIMP-EAGA - Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-
Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area
BOT - Built Operate and Transfer
BSIP - Business Study and Implementation Plan
CBET - Community-Based Ecotourism
CCA - Community Conserved Areas
CESA - Coastal Environmentally Sensitive Areas
CFS - Central Forest Spine
CITES - Convention On International Trade In Endangered
Species Of Wild Fauna And Flora
COAC - Centre for Orang Asli Concerns
CPTED - Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
CRAM - Car Rental Association Malaysia
CRNP - Coral Reef National Park
CSP - Commercial Services Programme
CSR - Corporate Social Responsibility
CTI-CFF - Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security
CTMPAS - Coral Triangle MPA System
CUZ - Community Use Zones
DCG - Destination Coordination Groups
DEMA - Diving Equipment & Marketing Association
DID - Department of Irrigation and Drainage
DMO - Destination Management Organisation
DOC - Department of Conservation
DOE - Department of Environment
DRT - Diving Resort Travel
DVMC - Danum Valley Management Committee
EAA - The Ecotourism Association of Australia
EAFM - Ecosystem Approach to Management of Fisheries
EAIC - Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission
ECER - East Coast Economic Region
EEZ - Exclusive Economic Zone
EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment
ELITE - Expressway Lingkaran Tengah
EOI - Expression of Interest
EPP - Entry Point Projects
EPU - Economic Planning Unit
ETP - Economic Transformation Programme
FAM Trip - Familiarisation Trip
FDI - Foreign Direct Investment
FGD - Focus Group Discussion
FHDC - Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation
FINAS - National Film Development Corporation Malaysia
FIT - Free Independent Traveller
FLEGT-VPA - Forest Legality Enforcement Governance and Trade- Voluntary Partnership Agreement
FMU - Forest Management Unit
FORMADAT - Alliance of the Indigenous Peoples of Borneo Highlands Forum
FRIM - Forest Research Institute Of Malaysia
GBC - General Border Committee
GEF - Global Environment Facility
GHG - Greenhouse Gases
GIS - Geographic Information System
GST - Goods and Services Tax
GSTC - Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria
GTP - Government Transformation Programme
List Of Acronyms
HCVF - High Conservation Value Forest
HKKH - Hindu Kush-Karakorum-Himalaya
HOA - Hotel Operators Association
HoB - Heart of Borneo
ICSP - Intensive English Communication Skills Programme
IES - The International Ecotourism Society
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
JAKOA - Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli
JKKK - Village Development and Security Committee
JKR - Jabatan Kerja Raya
JPBD - Jabatan Perancangan Bandar dan Desa
JPSM - Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia
JSIC - Johor State Investment Centre
KBJ - Koperasi Bersatu Jaya
KEJORA - Lembaga Kemajuan Johor Tenggara
KePKAS - Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah
KETENGAH - Lembaga Kemajuan Terengganu Tengah
KIA - Kuching International Airport
KiTA - Kinabatangan – Corridor of Life Tourism Operators
Association
KKLW - Ministry of Rural and Regional Development
KLIA - Kuala Lumpur International Airport
KOKTAS - Koperasi Serbaguna Kakitangan Taman Sabah
KOPEL - Koperasi Pelancongan Misowalai Homestay
KPKT - Ministry of Housing and Local Government
KPSAS - Kementerian Perancangan Sumber dan Alam
Sekitar Sarawak
KTCC - Kuala Terengganu City Centre
KTMB - Kereta Api Tanah Melayu Berhad
KUNITA - Kumpulan Wanita Nelayan
LAC - Limits of Acceptable Change
LADA - Langkawi Development Authority
LEAP - Land Empowerment Animals People
LIDR - Lankayan Island Dive Resort
LKSW - Lower Kinabatangan Segama Wetlands
MAB - Man and Biosphere
MADA - Lembaga Kemajuan Pertanian Muda
MAH - Malaysian Association of Hotels
MAHO - Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners
MATTA - Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents
MCG - Malaysian Culture Group
MDEC - Multimedia Development Corporation
MEA - Malaysian Ecotourism Association
MESCOT - Model for Ecologically Sustainable Community
Tourism
METT - Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool
MICE - Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions
MIDE - Malaysia International Expo
MMA - Mixed Martial Arts
MMBH - Malaysia Mega Biodiversity Hub
MMU - Multimedia University
MNRE - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
MNS - Malaysian Nature Society
MOA - Ministry of Agriculture
MOCAT - Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism
MOF - Ministry of Finance
MOHE - Ministry of Higher Education
MOT - Ministry of Transportation
MOTAC - Ministry of Tourism and Culture
MOTOUR - Ministry of Tourism
MOU - Memorandum of Understanding
MPA - Marine Protected Area
MPT - Majlis Perbandaran Taiping
MRPE - Ministry of Resource Planning & Environment
MSTC - Malaysia Sport Tourism Council
MTC - Malaysia Timber Council
MTCS - Malaysia Timber Certiication Scheme
MTED - Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Development
MTGC - Malaysian Tourist Guides Council
MTPB - Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board
MYCEB - Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau
MYTQA - Malaysia Tourism Quality Assurance
NAPIC - National Property Information Centre
NBT - Nature Based Tourism
NCER - Northern Corridor Economic Region
NCIA - Northern Corridor Implementation Agency
NEP - National Ecotourism Plan
NERC - Nature Education Research Centre
NESC - National Ecotourism Steering Committee
NETC - National Ecotourism Committee
NFP - National Forest Policy
NGO - Non-Governmental Organisation
NKEA - National Key Economic Area
NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NP - National Park
NPBD - National Policy on Biological Diversity
NPP - National Physical Plan
NSE - North-South Expressway
J
K
L
M
List Of Acronyms
P
R
T
U
W
S
PA - Protected Area
PABC - Protected Areas and Biodiversity Conservation
PATA - Paciic Asia Travel Association
PDS - Product Development Strategies
PEFC - Endorsement of Forest Certiication
PEMANDU - Performance Management & Delivery Unit
PERHILITAN - Jabatan Perlindungan Hidupan Liar dan Taman Negara
PEWANIS - Pengusaha Wanita Setiu
PHM - Persatuan Homestay Malaysia
PILA - Perhentian Island Ladies Association
PKENP - Perlis State Economic Development Corporation
PKNP - Pahang State Development Corporation
PL - Primary Linkage
PLC - Public Listed Company
PLUS - Projek Lebuhraya Usaha Sama Berhad
PPCEC - Pulau Perhentian Community Ecotourism
Co-operative
PRF - Permanent Reserve Forests
PS - Pioneer Status
PSF - Peat Swamp Forest
RCM - Reef Check Malaysia
RECODA - Regional Corridor Development Authority
REDD - Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest
Degradation
ReHUB - Real Estate Hub
ROI - Return On Investment
SAP - Special Area Plan
SCORE - Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy
SDC - Sabah Development Corridor
SEARRP - South East Asia Rainforest Research Programme
SEATRU - Sea Turtle Research Unit
SEDC - Sarawak Economic Development Corporation
SEDIA - Sabah Economic Development and Investment
Authority
SFC - Sarawak Forestry Corporation
SFD - Sarawak / Sabah Forestry Department
SIA - Social Impact Assessment
SIMCA - Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area
SJER - South Johor Economic Region
SKM - Suruhanjaya Koperasi Malaysia
SOSEK - Committee on Social Economic Malaysia - Indonesia
MALINDO
SPA - Strategic Plan of Action
SSIC - Selangor State Investment Centre Berhad
SSJTCC - Sabah Sarawak Joint Tourism Cooperation & Collaboration
SSL - Sutera Sanctuary Lodge
SSTVP - Sarawak Sea Turtle Volunteer Programme
STF - Special Tourism Fund
STPC - State Tourism Promotion Corporation
SWD - Sabah Wildlife Department
TC - Tourism Concession
TCS - Turtle Conservation Society
TDEX - Thailand Dive Expo
TEK - Traditional Ecological Knowledge
TENAGA - Terengganu Nature Guide Association
TERAJU - Unit Peneraju Agenda Bumiputera
TGA - Tourist Guide Association
THNC - Tourism, Hotel Investment, Networking Conference
TIC - Tourist Information Centre
TIES - The International Ecotourism Society
TIF - Tourism Infrastructure Fund
TNNP - Taman Negara National Park
TOR - Terms of Reference
TPA - Totally Protected Areas
TPRG - Tourism Planning Research Group, UTM
TREC - Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp
TSSN - Tourist Safety and Security Network
UKAS - Unit Kerjasama Awam Swasta
UNDP - United Nations Development Programme
UNEP - United Nations Environment Programme
UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientiic and Cultural Organisation
UNWTO - United Nations World Tourism Organisation
UPEN - Unit Perancangan Ekonomi Negeri
USAID - U.S. Agency for International Development
USM - Universiti Sains Malaysia
USP - Unique Selling Proposition
Appendix 1 comprises of a compilation of guidelines for ecotourism sites. Prepared by experts, these guidelines are developed from the guidelines originally prv epared for the National Ecotourism Plan 1996. Where necessary, they have been revised and strengthened, taking into consideration the most recent updates and trends in ecotourism development.
The aims of these ecotourism guidelines are:
• To address speciic activities and functions in all ecotourism areas. • To guide management and
monitoring of sites in speciic practices.
• To form basis for standards of best practice.
• To be the foundation for subsequent evaluation and improvement.
In the 1996 Plan, the guidelines were categorized in the following groups:
1. Categorizing Sites and Activities. 2. Carrying Capacity and Limits of
Acceptable Change. 3. Guidelines on Ecosystems. 4. Speciic Practices.
For this study, the categorization has been adjusted. The guidelines are now listed according to the life cycle of an ecotourism site i.e. planning, management and operation stages. The guidelines are now grouped in the following manner and with subsets guidelines:
In general, the guidelines form a basis for planning, design, development, management and operation of ecotourism sites. Each guideline speciies the target audience, and the scope of the guideline is focused for the speciic purposes. The guidelines can however be used by any interested party who ind the information useful.
Each guideline is presented in a standardized format with the following main headings:
1. Introduction to the Guide.
2. Speciication of the target audience for whom the guide is made. 3. The objective of the guide. 4. The Guidance.
ECOTOURISM GUIDELINES
Preface
SECTION ECOTOURISM SITE LIFECYCLE GUIDELINES
SECTION A Regional, site planning and development A1-A6
SECTION B Site management B1-B5
SECTION C Guidelines on ecosystems C1-C8
This guideline serves to aid decision makers, landowners and planners for proper site selection, e-zoning and planning, layout design, infrastructure and utilities layout, earth works and
others related to land uses and special requirements. The development planning guidelines lists the basic criteria of having a sustainable design that has a positive effect on the sites.
Planners for planning the use of the site and its natural resources for ecotourism State and Local Authorities pertaining to approvals for land requirement, site location selection, and road and infrastructure development. Land owner and developers in determining the scale
of development, the zoning plans and development component
National / State Technical department that are involved directly or indirectly within the allocated area for ecotourism development.
To streamline the overall planning and positioning of a tourism development component of an ecotourism product within the regional and site setting without resulting in negative implications towards the natural resources and environment.
A1
1.1
1.2
1.3
GUIDELINES FOR REGIONAL SITE
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Introduction
Target Audience
Planning of an ecotourism site needs to extend beyond the site itself into a wider context, to include the site’s surrounding region. This is required as a means to deine the environmental goals of an ecotourism site as part of the main component of a region’s
natural resources planning. Ecotourism sites located within protected areas and naturally rich zones should be planned holistically and integrate the following components in the management zone framework:
An example of a wider region planning for ecotourism sites is shown in the key management zone for Endau Rompin National Park (refer Figure A1.1).
1.4
1.4.1
Guidance
Regional Planning
1. To ensure ecotourism sites are serviced with good key gateway towns
2. To ensure the ecotourism resources are totally protected (core protection area)
3. To protect the site’s integrity as a national ecotourism site in the long run
4. To provide ample buffers to the ecotourism site from adjacent nonforested uses
5. To provide alternative attractions within the surrounding areas such as nature experience zones and adventure parks which target low-medium margin / high volume mass tourism market and domestic tourists
6. To accommodate wildlife corridors and potential lora and fauna connections
7. To provide connectivity to other symbiotically important ecosystems (riparian reserves and coastal areas)
Figure A1.1: Key Management Plan for Regional Planning of an Ecotourism Site; Example of Endau-Rompin National Park
A sustainable site plan should be developed for each ecotourism site that results in minimum environmental impacts and should be incorporated in the Management Plan for each site. The preparation of the plan is a collaborative approach which involves landscape architects, architects, engineers, environmental experts, botanist, biologist, and local community stakeholders such as the Orang Asli and State land owners at the early stage. This will give wellcoordinated inputs based on their expertise to facilitate the development of a comprehensive and sustainable site plan.
The site will be classiied or categorised into different areas based on the type of use and planned development. Types of management zones can be demarcated
(example proposed by the Strategic Implementation Plan for Taman Negara Endau Rompin Tourism Development) as listed below and elaborated in Table A1.1.
Zoning can be assisted with the application of the Geographic Information System (GIS) as a tool to classify and demarcate areas with sensitive environments. Location of facilities and construction sites are to utilise the area with minimal tree clearing to avoid unnecessary felling and the use of heavy machineries. The details of the management zones are as shown in Figure A1.2. Figure A1.3 provides a simpler version of ecotourism site zoning, which provides the basis for planning, although it might not be suficient enough.
1.4.2
Site planning in the form of a Development Zoning Plan
Table A1.1: Development / Management Zones – Example: Endau-Rompin National Park.
Source: Strategic Implementation Plan for Endau-Rompin National Park Tourism Development,
ECERDC
Figure A1.2: Development / Management Zones – Example: Endau-Rompin National Park Source: Strategic Implementation Plan for Endau-Rompin National Park Tourism Development, ECERDC
MANAGEMENT ZONE
FUNCTION
Absolute Protection Zone
Areas within the ecotourism site whereby protection is of utmost importance for conserving and
maintaining the ecological integrity of the ecosystem for the benefit of global and national conservation, science and people.
Strictly
Controlled Low Impact
Ecotourism Zone
Areas that allow a controlled and limited number of ecotourism visitors and scientists. Advanced booking, permits and guides are necessary to access the trails and river corridors beyond the main ecotourism base camp zone.
Controlled Low Impact
Ecotourism Zone
Areas that allow a limited number of ecotourism visitors and scientists. Permits and guides are necessary to access the trails and river corridors adjacent to the main ecotourism base camp zone. Ecotourism and
Science Research Base Camp Zone
Areas that allow development of base camp accommodations for ecotourism visitors and scientists, as well as associated facilities for administration personnel at each of the three main base camps to the Park. Recreational and
environmental education activities within the zone, which are not conflicting with the conservation objectives of the park, are to be readily accessible
and promoted.
L
ESSER
T
O
U
R
IST
1.4.3
Planning for Sustainable Tourism Support and Infrastructure
Nature is tied to its own independent rhythm that progresses and changes all the time. It cannot be synchronised always catastrophic. For example, such negative impacts in ecotourism sites are visible where engineering attempts to raise the water level by damming is done to enable all year round boating experience for visitors. In doing so, nature’s rhythm is broken and the local lora and fauna and local communities are severely affected when the wet and dry seasons cannot be mitigated by the ecosystem services provided by lakes, wetlands and waterways. For ecotourism to be sustainably executed, the local phenology must be respected and maintained.
Ecotourism cannot arrange nature to make holidaymaking pleasurable all the time. It arranges events so that visitors are balanced and enlightened by the natural cycle of life. All 50 sites proposed by the 2013 Review Plan respects the phenology of individual sites. It recognises that not all sites can be accessed or fully showcased all year around due to biological, monsoonal and geological inluences.
In other words, it should never be the intention for somebody to visit a natural area for the interest of tourism facilities or services.
Increasing number of visitor, extension of visitor season, increases in the duration of stay and installation of various features such as boardwalks, hides, viewing towers, visitor centres and eco-lodges are likely to have, if unmitigated, a range of adverse environmental impacts. vThese might include:
1. Direct habitat loss; There will be direct loss of habitat and displacement and fatalities of associated species (fatalities being more signiicant for less mobile species) resulting from necessary site clearance and construction.
2. Disturbance; Effects of disturbance on biodiversity are hard to measure. Certain species and habitats are more vulnerable to disturbance than the others are, whether during the construction phase or the operational stage of the project (e.g. disturbance caused by visitors). Disturbance effects would need to be managed using the latest indings from research on disturbance effects on the component species, extrapolating from the best available parallel studies where speciic studies have not been undertaken.
3. Construction works; Construction works would have to be timed where possible to avoid key breeding periods of speciic species which do not breed year-round. Substrate compaction would have to be avoided or limited. Any installations adjacent to rivers or on steep hillsides would need to be carefully assessed in terms of their likely inluence on sedimentation and erosion dynamics.
1.4.4
Producing an Inventory of Ecotourism Attraction
A very important task for the administration of a protected area in ecotourism product planning is conducting a detailed inventory of the ecotourism attractions found in the area. This inventory must be as complete and detailed as possible, but it should not be perceived as an exhaustive, scientiic list of all the species of plants and animals in that area or as a complete catalogue of ruins of buildings and other cultural artefacts in the case of an archaeological site.
Rather, the inventory must be seen as description of those features in the area that constitute the main attractions to tourists. The language used in preparing inventories should be simple, easily understood by the layman and not overly technical or scientiic.
The following format is suggested in preparing an inventory of ecotourism attractions as shown in Table A1.2.
Table A1.2: Format for Inventory of Ecotourism Attractions
POINTS COVERAGE FORMAT FOR INVENTORY OF ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS 1 to 8 Basic features. 1. Name and status (protected category) of the site
2. Geographical location (including a location sketch, latitude, longitude, altitude above sea level) 3. Extent of area (hectares)
4. Means of access and entry points 5. Internal circulation
5.1 Vehicular roads and parking areas 5.2 Pedestrian paths, walks and trails 5.3 Equestrian trails
5.4 Bicycle or off-road vehicle routes 5.5 Water routes
6. Brief description of overall visual resources
6.1 Basic terrain varieties: abrupt topography, moderate slopes, practically flat, etc.
6.2 Variety of geomorphological features: jagged peaks, rounded hills, cliffs, ravines, caves, islands, etc. 6.3 Variety of hydrological features: sea, rivers, beaches, lakes, lagoons, reservoirs, waterfalls, hot springs, etc. 6.4 Variety of vegetation patterns: highly or moderately varied, practically uniformed
6.5 Effects of land uses (lack or presence of discordant visual elements: buildings, utility lines, deforested areas, highways, etc.) 7. Climate patterns
7.1. Temperature 7.2. Precipitation
7.3. Winds (speed, direction) 7.4. Humidity
7.5. Air pressure 7.6. Cloudiness
POINTS COVERAGE FORMAT FOR INVENTORY OF ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS
9 & 10 Material that may include flagship attractions and complementary attractions.
9. Natural attractions
9.1 Geological / geomorphological features • Mountains
• Inter montane valleys, basins, plains • Ravines, gorges
• Cliffs
• Boulders, balancing rocks, etc. • Caves
• Sand dunes, sand banks, etc. • Fossils
• Islands • Coral reefs
• Capes, peninsulas, points • Bays, inlets, coves, straits, etc. • Beaches
9.2 Hydrological resources • Oceanic water
• Rivers, streams, underwater currents, etc. • Lakes, ponds, reservoirs, etc.
• Estuarine waters (freshwater, brackish, coastal lagoons, wetlands, marshes) • Springs (hot, cold, sulphurous, etc.)
• Waterfalls 9.3 Biological resources
• Flora
o Main vegetation types: lowland rainforest, hill forest, montane forest, mangroves, grassland, etc.) o Main species (most interesting, rarest, most beautiful, most characteristic of the area, etc.) o Specific individual trees (with exact location)
• Fauna (species checklists, singling out target species) o Invertebrates
o Fishes
o Reptiles and amphibians o Birds
o Mammals
10. Cultural heritage attractions 10.1. Archaeological features
10.2. Local folklore or culture: ethnic groups, villages, architecture, dress, marketplace, food, dance and music, handicrafts, traditions, ceremonies, etc. 10.3. Historical and architectural landmarks
11 Supporting attractions. 11. Supporting attractions and tourism physical facilities.
1.1.1. Interpretative facilities and services: visitor centre, nature trails, guided walks, museum, reference book collection, video and slide-show facilities, pamphlets, brochures
1.1.2. Transportation: boat rides, house-riding, canopy walkways, etc.
1.4.5
Determining sets of Guidelines Applicable to Each Site
In the following key, the site must be interpreted broadly, meaning that not only the area within the boundary of land being applied for (e.g., ownership, development of tourism project, etc.), but also the neighbouring areas likely to be affected in any way by the activity or proposal.
Table A1.3: Guidelines Applicable according for Site Characteristics
Design of landscape feature is applied to the design of the welcoming signage.
Source:www.benleow.com
REF SITE CHARACTERISTICS GUIDELINES
APPLICABLE
1.
a. The site is entirely land-based see Ref 2 b. The site involves mainly river/lake tourism see Ref 6 c. The site involves mainly marine tourism see Ref 7
2. a. The site has significant limestone or cave areas and may also have other habitats A1-A5, B1-B5, C5, D1-D5
b. The site does not contain significant limestone or caves See Ref 3
3.
a. The site includes at least some natural forest, whether it is disturbed or not (dry land forest, swamp forest, mangroves) and may include other vegetation types as
well see Ref 4
b. The site has no natural forest see Ref 5
4.
a. The site is mainly lowland swamp, including mangroves A1-A5, B1-B5, C3, C8, D1-D5
b. This site is mainly dry lowland (below 750 metres, 2500 feet) A1-A5, B1-B5, C3, D1-D5 c. The site is mainly montane (above 750 metres, 2500 feet) A1-A5, B1-B5, C2, C8,
D1-D5
5. a. The site includes natural vegetation other than forest (e.g., natural swamps, naturally occurring scrub or grassland)
A1-A5, B1-B5, C3, C8, D1-D5
b. The site has no natural vegetation A1-A5, B1-B5, D1-D5
6. a. The site is based upon a river but involves a combination of land and water based activities A1-A5, B1-B5, C2, C6,
D1-D5
7.
a. The site and activities are water based A1-A5, B1-B5, C4, C6, C7, D1-D5
b. The site is an island at sea, or a reef A1-A5, B1-B5, C1,C7, D1-D5
c. The site is coastal mainland, not an island see Ref 8
GUIDELINES FOR ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Introduction
Guidance
Architectural Shape & Building
technology
This guideline serves as a code in physical development for planning, design and construction of infrastructure, building, structures, utilities and landscape design. This guideline is aligned with the Uniform Building By- Law Act, which integrates basic requirements to ensure that the structure is safe and comfortable for public use. The development planning and design guidelines provide the basic needs of having a sustainable
design that react positively to the site’s inluences, the landscape character, the building functions and user needs. The guidelines aim to reduce the negative impact of ecotourism to the environment and local culture surrounding ecotourism sites.
This should relect the local climate, architecture and cultural value. The construction materials and design element should be of environmentally friendly products. Recycled materials from natural product waste are highly encouraged.
The Objectives are:
1. Professionals: Planners, Architects, Landscape Architects, Engineers. 2. Local / State Authority as reference
in revising their architectural and development plans.
3. Construction industry service providers; in guiding their method of strategy and method of construction.
4. Ecotourism Site Management and Maintenance Service providers; in order to guide their management physical plan and the quality of service expectation that suits the image of the Ecotourism Master plan.
1. To ensure physical development has minimal social and environmental impact on site and its value.
2. To ensure an appropriate architectural design be implemented accordingly and achieve its quality
and quality landscape design which will provides comfort, safety and enjoyment to the visitors.
1. Provide an architectural approach consistent with environmental philosophies and scientiic principles. Avoid inappropriate merging of styles and use simple design solutions wherever possible. 2. Building structures should be
compatible with the landscape, while the heights of buildings should be below the tree line or screened by topographical features.
3. Avoid erecting concrete buildings whenever possible. Concrete structures are an eyesore in the natural environment.
4. Promote Malaysian culture in the decoration of the resort, e.g.: use batik paintings.
5. Healthful Interior Environment; ensure that materials and building systems do not emit toxic substances and gasses into the interior atmosphere. Clean and revitalise interior air with iltration
6. Energy Eficiency; ensure that building’s use of energy is minimal. Use cooling, heating and lighting systems that conserve or eliminate energy use.
7. Environmental Form; the design has to be related to the ecology of the site, the nature of the region, the climate, and the inhabitant’s culture and needs.
8. Few ecological factors that can be applied:
• Cooling energy; gas-motor chiller, cooling towers, etc. • Heat energy; Solar thermal
systems, etc.
• Electrical energy; Wind energy generator, photovoltaic, etc. • Water; Pure/waste water,
Viewing shelter made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and palm fronds blend harmoniously with the natural environment.
Landscape design
2.4.2
1. Use native or local plants in landscape areas and plants with low water consumption.
2. Design proper circulation to protect the natural landscape by directing visitors onto designated trails, thereby helping to avoid disturbance of fragile vegetation and prevent erosion.
3. Design road and infrastructure
to consider wildlife connectivity / corridors in the form of viaducts, tunnels, riparian reserves alike. 4. Create attractions for forest
exploration and adventure by designating proper circulation of low human impact to the natural environment with elements such as nature trail and canopy walk.
5. Design boardwalk to bring the visitor
and the interpreted feature together in such a way that park features and scenery can be enjoyed.
6. Gateways should project a sense of the natural environment that lies beyond the entry point and a theme that is echoed consistently throughout the park, and assist the casual visitor with a sense of feeling at home in the landscape.
7. Structural diversity; to achieve richest wildlife habitat opportunities, designers should seek to achieve diverse vertical structure by including the full range of vegetative layers present in the native community - from tree canopy where applicable, through mid-layer and understory species.
Boardwalk with highlighted steps provides a safe path for jungle trekking activities.
The `tree friendly’ canopy walkway is designed without rigging steel cables directly on the trees.
Provision of adequate facilities at nature reserves attracts passive recreational activities and invaluable educational experience to the younger
generation. Canopy walkways give a thrilling experience and breathtaking view of the forest
at a high elevation.
1. Recognise the optimal sociological use-limits of the site as well as safety convenient factors, suitable siting of buildings depends on functional considerations. Manmade structures should interfere as little as possible with the natural ecosystem. 2. The size and capacity of park
facilities could be determined based on limiting factors such as space, water and energy availability, ecological vulnerability of area, access and general site conditions. The landscape character of the site must not include urban features causing the cultural landscape to lose its sense of place in the historical context.
3. Facilities for the disabled should be provided where possible. However, the rugged nature of
some ecotourism sites and activities precludes access for disabled persons.
4. Accessibility to recreational trails is particularly important. Park designers should consider the basic elements of designing and constructing park facilities to make them accessible to disabled persons and provide education on wildlife, native cultural resources, historic features or natural features to visitors.
5. Involve local community in operations and interpretation to foster local pride and visitor exposure to traditional values and
techniques. Ministry of Culture, Art and Tourism.
(1996). National Ecotourism Plan. http:// www.motac.gov.my/en/.../27-national-eco-tourism-plan-part-1
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. (2012). Environmental Best Practices Booklet. http://www. dmpm.nre.gov.my/
Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing. (June 2014). Best Practice Ecotourism Development Guidelines. State of Queensland.
Osman Mohd Tahir, Mohd Nazri Saidon, Arnis Aziz (2010). Sustainable Design Facilities for Ecotourism Development in Kota Marudu, Sabah. Faculty of Design and Architecture, Universiti Putra Malaysia.
This system requires the identiication of a passive solar system that best suits the microclimate and the loor plan; the design should look into the size and location of windows, door, skylight and solar chimneys so that it is suited to the plan and site location. The selection of
exterior materials should not only work well with the external environment but also have thermal and insulation properties for the exterior surfaces. Rooms and zones should be sized to minimize unwanted iniltration of heat.
The building safety code should not only guarantee the safety but at the same time serve as a regulation that its into various situations that could affect construction work. The code should contain basic principles and guidelines to be followed in order to achieve safety yet permits creative thinking and
innovation on the part of the designer that will enlighten the best feature of the ecology. The codes should also provide suficient details to guide and control the non-technical builder to develop a safe structure and control the impacts of construction on the environment.
2.4.3
2.5
2.4.4
2.4.5
Design for people
References
Passive solar system design
GUIDELINES FOR ENSURING LOCAL
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Introduction
Guidance
Target Audience
Objective
A3
3.1
3.4
3.2
3.3
Active local participation and also gaining direct beneits are two major principles of ecotourism. Ecotourism that does not beneit local communities directly or indirectly may not achieve the strategy set out to elevate the socio-economic condition of the population within the
protected and ecotourism areas. A clear planning framework is needed to guide all stakeholders in planning and managing ecotourism sites in relation to this.
A plan and framework to encourage local community participation should be developed and highlight the following aspects:
1. Identiies a list of economic activities that can be participated by the local community and develop capital inance mechanism for them to participate.
2. Identiies potential local leaders and communal committee with a drive to be the representatives in all stakeholder forums and communal participation initiatives.
3. Researches and gather feedback from locals on what might be viewed positively or negatively to ensure the plan achieves realistic goals.
4. Seeks out potential ecotourism products and services that provide equitable gender opportunities to women.
5. Offers concession, capital funding or assistance to local community to solely or co-manage ecotourism sites or speciic activities.
6. Explores various options for skill training to ensure locals adaptation to employment demand.
7. Empowers locals for self-determination and to move up the economical chain eventually by running their own businesses or become the partners.
8. Addresses the issue of inlation and minimizes economic leakages to outsiders.
9. Identiies potential direct, indirect and induced negative social and cultural impacts to the local community and use the indings to formulate controls and capacity limits. This process should be preceded by a Social Impact Assessment (SIA). 10. Includes ecological and
environmental awareness training program to ensure the locals do no longer practice any activities that will damage or degrade ecotourism assets.
Site authority / managers, private investors, planners, regulating government agencies.
To ensure economic and equitable social beneits through local participation, existing social and community structure should be embedded into any new ecotourism plan at the earliest stage.
Participation of local communities in economic activities
GUIDELINES ON MANAGING TENDERS AND BIDS
Introduction
Guidance
Selection Criteria
Target Audience
Objective
A4
4.1
4.4
4.4.1
4.2
4.3
The management of tenders and bids involves the planning, operational and monitoring process of contract services and supplies to be carried out in a fair manner. Most ecotourism sites, operating
under the government inancial treasury procedures, obtain the services in a fair, competitive manner.
The selection criteria should be spelled out so that the basis for selection is understood well in advance. Site authority / managers should ensure that the criteria for selection are in full public knowledge and also the potential bidders. If services rendered
have standard rates, the bid managers may follow the existing ‘queue’ system where interested bidders are required to register with the site authority / managers or the technical project managers and the award of works are commissioned on a rotation basis.
Site authority / managers and inancial administrators responsible for the sites.
Local Community Involvement
Relaxation on the Electronic
Tenders and Bids
Analysis of Positive and
Negative Impact
Assurance of Non-Contradiction
to other Legislation and
Guidelines
4.4.2
4.4.5
4.4.3
4.4.4
The concept of ecotourism is enhanced by giving preference of economic beneits to local companies especially those operated by local community or native cooperatives. The tender should indicate the preference of local companies. The concept of
‘Gotong-royong’ where there is a cooperative effort by local communities, as allowed within the government treasury circulars should be continued in order to enhance marginalised local economy and the sharing of beneit to a wider local communities.
The new inancial policy of conducting tender awards on-line may not give an equal chance to all petty traders within the vicinity of ecotourism sites as they may lack access to the information and communication technology. Site authority/managers should be aware of this problem and should allow this procurement process to be done manually in order to ensure local
economy participation. If this process is not allowed within the standard treasury procedures, site authority/managers should get special approvals so as to ensure that local community traders/ contractors have equal opportunities to participate.
In doing the analysis before the tender award, two independent subcommittees should be formed for evaluation and analysis of technical and inancial impacts. The minimal cost bids should not be the main criteria for decision of award. The higher authority, based on the recommendations of the two sub-committees, makes the inal decision for the award. The second best bid
should be reserved and be awarded should the irst bidder withdraw or is later terminated for any reasons e.g. incompetency. This system is to ensure smooth low of service award so as not to repeat the whole process of bidding, evaluation and award.
1. All services should adhere to the site legislation and related policies of the governing body.
2. In ensuring enforcement of guidelines, all guidelines of this plan should be incorporated into the contracts and agreements.
GUIDELINES ON ASSESSING TOURISM POTENTIAL ON SITES
stakeholders to assess the tourism potential of a site.1. State Authority: as reference in land and iscal allocation and approvals. 2. Local Authority: as reference in
revising and approving their physical development plans.
3. Technical personnel: Planners responsible for planning the scale of tourism development.
4. National / State Technical Departments: involved directly or indirectly within the allocated area pertaining to ecotourism development.
To guide stakeholders in identifying the product potential of a proposed site and reining the ecotourism concept.
1. Ecotourism Site Recognition
• Is there any recognition for the site? (UNESCO, Ramsar, International Bird Area, etc.)
2. Current Tourism Status
• Is the ecotourism site a tourism site or recreational site?
3. Current Target Market
• Is the ecotourism site target market to only domestic or international tourists or both international and domestic tourist?
4. Landscape Character
• What is the type of distinctive landscape character on the site? 5. State of Natural Resources
• Is it gazetted as a Protected Areas, or with similar status?
• What is the capacity of natural and cultural values to sustain the facility development impacts and visitor activity over time? Are there any speciic constraints or vulnerabilities?
• Are strategies required to protect sensitive habitat areas and/or avoiding activity in vulnerable or highly valued areas?
6. Ecotourism Products / Activities • Is the area unique in its appeals, a
little bit different, or similar to other tourism areas?
• What ecotourism activities were offered at the site?
• Does the area offer several distinct
7. Quality of Tourist Experience
• Does the area have high, moderate or quality tourist experience?
• Does visitor experience through responsible tourism practices (e.g. wildlife viewing) interfere with foraging, territorial or breeding patterns?
8. Level of Protection
• Is there any conservation effort takes place at the ecotourism • What is the level of protection of the quality transport, close/ moderately close / remote?
• Is the area close enough to other sites of interest to be part of tourist circuit?
• In providing access to the site, have existing roads, tracks and utility corridors been utilised?
11. Infrastructure
• Is the ecotourism infrastructure adequate to support ecotourism activities at the site? E.g. transportation, electricity and communication system.
• Has consideration been given to A checklist containing the various key
components should be developed to assist stakeholders in developing the ecotourism concept of a potential site.
12. Tourism Support Facilities
• Do tourism support facilities e.g. nearest town, airport and jetty provide the adequate support? • Is there intention to obtain third-party
sustainable building certiication or accreditation for the facility?
13. Local Community
• Will the indigenous cultural heritage and cultural values of the site be respected through sensitive visitor interpretive experiences and partnerships to contribute to the long-term preservation and protection measures of these values?
• Have any economic beneits for surrounding communities been identiied, e.g. local procurement of food and materials, construction, repairs and maintenance, local indigenous arts and craft for purchase by visitors (if appropriate)? 14. Guiding Facilities
• Is there intention to provide well researched information on the site for visitors with appropriate qualiied guides?
• What strategies will be employed to inform visitors of local indigenous
and non-indigenous customs and expectations regarding use of the site particularly in relation to cultural resources?
15. Management and Operation
• Has the site a management plan and operation procedure, and do managers strictly follow the plan? • Are sustainable features such as
recycled materials, eficient water and energy systems, and waste minimisation practices visible throughout the site?
16. Sold Within Tour Package
• Are there any linked sales or tour packages in the website?
• Is the site being sold and promoted by tour agents?
17. Added Value Factor
• Does the area offer ‘star’ or ‘lagship’ species attractions; other interesting or representative wildlife; distinctive wildlife viewing on foot, by boat or from hides?
• Have the special or unique environmental and cultural features of the site been identiied?
References
5.5
National Ecotourism Plan Malaysia (1996). Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Federal Government of Malaysia.
GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING ECOLODGES IN
NATIONAL PARKS
A6
Introduction
Objective
6.1
6.2
This guideline serves as a way for park managers and other relevant government agencies to evaluate
ecolodge development proposals in national parks and other ecotourism sites.
To put their sustainability quest in a proper framework all lodges ought to have their own statement of commitment towards conservation of the environment. This statement embodies the inspiration of the lodge to conserve the environment and serves as a reference to all their sustainability actions. Here are some examples:
Philosophy:
Asian Oasis was founded on the principle of sustainable development with emphasis on:
• Preservation of culture, traditions, nature and community life
• Building strong and vibrant communities and protecting the environment
• Sustaining and restoring the natural environment and the livelihoods of the community
• Delivering an authentic experience to the visitors
- Asian Oasis (Operator of Lisu Lodge, Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Vision:
happy working team that surpass the traveler´s expectations.
- Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Vision:
Become an exemplary hotel that preserves and protects part of the rain forest in the Osa Peninsula and, at the same time, creates awareness about the importance of the rain forest and living sustainably.
Mission:
To operate sustainably with the natural environment and contribute to the social economic base by facilitating and operating our hotel with involvement and creating more awareness around our sustainability program with our guests.
-Luna Lodge, Costa Rica
Vision:
To become the role model for world-class eco-tourism by providing quality affordable lodging, offering a highly-trained guide service second to none, and delivering exemplary assistance to all of our clients’ needs.
Lisu Lodge, Thailand
Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Planning, Design and Construction
6.3
The basic principles of sustainability - protecting the present for the future by maintaining bio-diversity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting place - for an ecolodge is decided from the planning of the location, the siting of the buildings and the form of their design, to the selection of building materials and the management of the construction process. Thus, the following are recommended for planning, design and construction of an ecolodge:
• The planning and design of the ecolodge in general should be in total harmony of the local culture and the local environment. The ecolodge should blend in as part of them in all aspects rather than appearing ubiquitous on its own. • Minimal destruction of the natural
environment ensured through proper site selection, good site planning, sensitive design and appropriate construction method. Minimal cutting of trees is encouraged and trees of certain size, age or of particular importance should be conserved. • Capitalising on nature to provide
certain ecosystem services and minimise energy requirement. Buildings built elevated on stilts, for instance, beneit from natural cooling and ventilation while conserved trees can provide suficient shading, rendering air conditioning unnecessary. Rooing made from locally available thatch helps to insulate buildings and keep temperatures pleasant. Natural wetlands can be improved to act both as a wastewater treatment system and lood mitigation system. • The working of the whole natural
ecosystem of the area should be understood and incorporated in the planning and design of the ecolodge. For instance, wildlife corridor is to be
• The design should prioritise use of sustainable materials and employ non-polluting services, such as roof water collection, grey water treatment systems, composting toilets and energy-eficient solar or water power.
• Construction materials and method should as far as possible be sourced from the area and together with design should relect the rich culture of the people. This in itself would become an attraction for the lodge. • Use of local materials, construction
method and design usually entails employment of local artisan and workers that goes very well with the concept sustainable tourism. Further, maintenance of these buildings would also favor local expertise.
• Replanting of area disturbed during construction should be carried out to minimise erosion and sedimentation but the replanting has to be with native species.
• Construction noise should be kept to the minimum to ensure minimal disturbance.
Example of ecolodge design in harmony with the local culture and local environment.
Operation
6.4
• Given the often-remote locations of ecolodge, off-grid energy from renewable resources such as solar, wind or water-generated energy should be given a priority. Nearby headwaters in a remote jungle or sunny or windy part of an island, for example, could supplement energy needs of an ecolodge if not fulilling the total demand.
• If connected to the grid, excess clean energy generated by the lodge could be supplied back to the main grid during off-peak hours or stored in battery storage for later use. • Hybrid system of solar or other
renewables and fossil fuel generators should be the next choice rather than totally relying on the supply grid.
• Conduct an energy audit for the whole resort and have a target in terms of energy eficiency.
• Design of ecolodge should insist
on environmentally friendly open structures that allow the use of natural light and natural ventilation to reduce energy needs.
• Think about more eficient and cost-effective energy use options such as use of LED lighting, solar water heaters and energy eficient appliances (freezer, cooler, pool pump, air conditioner, etc.).
• Energy for heating or cooking is best sourced from methane gas produced by bio-digestion of organic waste from the kitchen.
• All stakeholders involved with the ecolodge from the owners, operators and guests should be roped in the idea of energy savings through informational brieings and pamphlets.
True water sustainability for ecolodges has lately been interpreted as no connection to water supply mains or to the centralised sewerage system, especially given their relatively remote locations. Even better for its image, an ecolodge should have a water management system that closely follow the natural water cycle where clean natural water is used with minimal treatment and returned to the environment after naturally cleansed using natural systems with no or minimal chemical added. Wetlands and aquatic plant systems are becoming common in the polishing of wastewater prior to reuse.
Sustainable water cycle for an ecolodge requires no decline in the stock of fresh water, no accumulation of persistent pollutants and no interruption of the natural cycle of other materials in the water environment. Thus, the following guidelines should be adopted by an ecolodge to ensure sustainable water/ wastewater management:
• Conduct a water footprint audit for the whole ecolodge and set a clear target in terms of water usage. • Natural water cycle should be the
guiding principles and as far as
possible steps should be taken not to deviate from the natural cycle. • On-site clean natural water sources
such as groundwater, streams or rainwater with minimal treatment should be used as a water source prior to any other source.
• For easier recycling of water, grey water should be kept separate from black water.
• Extracted water should be returned to the environment with no or little preferred over a mechanical system that energy intensive and requires use of chemicals.
• All wastewater should be treated to a standard that allows reuse for non-potable purposes such as gardening or outdoor washing or safely returned to the environment. • Promote smart water consumption
among all stakeholders from workers to guests to minimise both consumption and pollution.
Energy Supply
Water and Wastewater
Management
• Practise cleaner production techniques to ensure: i) minimal generation of wastewater as a result of minimal water consumption; and ii) reduction of wastewater contamination. Minimal water usage and wastewater generation or volume reduction can be achieved if the following measures are enforced where appropriate:
• Cleaner production also requires either no chemicals are used or replaced with natural substitutes to reduce contamination of wastewater. Among measures that can be taken are:
1. Lower water usage by altering work practices such as channeling washing runoff into gardens and covering unused swimming pools to reduce evaporation. Also restrict access for example by having fewer taps.
2. Promote wise use of water amongst staff and guests.
3. Install water eficient devices (water pressure balancing devices, low low shower heads, dual lush toilets, aerated taps, low restrictors, manual urinals, hand pumps to sinks and baths) and appliances. Use of composting toilets is also encouraged in areas with limited water source.
4. Conduct regular maintenance and check for water leaks.
5. Reuse water wherever possible for non-potable uses (e.g. ire ighting, gardens, vehicle washing).
6. Collect uncontaminated rainwater (e.g. from roofs) and store.
7. Natural landscapes should be used in place of man-made gardens and if a man-made garden is necessary then priority should be given xeriscape (low water) gardens of native species with the following practices applied; i) sprinklers with eficient watering patterns and droplet sizes to encourage soil penetration; ii) drip irrigation or sub-surface hoses which eliminate runoff and evaporation; and iii) soil conditioners that encourage water
1. Adopt use of non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients as alternatives to chemical cleaners such as baking soda, pure soap, washing soda, white vinegar and lime. They can be used for almost everything from cleaning to disinfection to grease removal as well as water softening.
2. Use only biodegradable toiletries and detergents to protect water resources.
Solid Waste Management
6.4.3
Ecolodges should have an integrated solid waste management system that comprehensively addresses the solid waste issue from cradle to grave. Management of solid waste starts from purchasing of materials to disposal of discarded materials where adherence to the practice of 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) is of utmost importance. All decisions on solid waste management should give priority to Reduce before Reuse and inally Recycle. As such, the following measures are recommended as guidelines on solid waste management for ecolodges:
• Procurement of goods and materials should be made with the conscience to reduce unnecessary solid wastes such as packaging. For example, buying food and supplies in bulk to reduce packaging materials, especially plastic. Also soap and shampoo in guest rooms can be served from dispensers, not from throwaway plastic bottles or plastic sachets.
• Use of reusable items and reuse of discarded materials for different purposes should always be a priority over recycling. Use of re-usable water bottles, plates and cups during a trekking trip for example is always better than using their disposable counterparts. Instead of being disposed of, discarded materials such as some packaging can still serve as containers and the
like around the ecolodge. One just needs to be creative enough to ind their usefulness.
• Discarded materials that can no longer be reused should therefore be sorted into recyclables or wastes. Recyclables in the form of metals, plastics of different grades and papers can be carted offsite to the recylers while organic wastes such as food and garden wastes should be composted onsite for alter use as soil conditioner or carted offsite as animal feeds if the volume and distance allow. Worm garden and organic garden are other alternative use for organic wastes.
• Materials that can no longer be environment or left accessible to the wildlife for fear of their well-being or even dependence on human. • Separation of the solid wastes at
the source is an essential step in an integrated solid waste management practice and it should be followed closely to avoid cross-contamination of the wastes.
• All stakeholders should be properly informed of the solid waste management practice at the ecolodge and invited to participate.
• Supplies in terms of foods or materials should irst come from local sources to lower carbon footprint, to support local industry and to create a sense of belonging towards the ecolodge by the locals. The ecolodge can work together and the importance of conserving its environment.
• Take steps to avoid overexploitation of local food sources by using only what is in season and respecting the harvesting protocol.
• Materials other than food too should be sourced from the local community for a complete sustainability practice of the lodge.
