The Impacts Of Ski Resorts On The Surrounding Environment Essay

The Impacts Of Ski Resorts On The Surrounding Environment - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the rise in tourism, and the resultant environmental and ecological inconsistencies arising out of the same, has led to an increased concern regarding the sustainability of the tourist destinations, as well as the surrounding environment. Governments, across the globe, are now increasingly and actively participating in efforts directed towards promoting eco-tourism, with a view to ensure maximum protection to the tourist destinations and to reduce the adverse environmental impacts arising out of increased human activities. There is now an increased emphasis on developing and implementing sustainable practices in ski-resorts particularly owing to the increase in ski tourism over the years. This is because Ski resorts which are mainly developed in mountainous regions where the impact of human activities is far more adverse as compared to other tourism destinations located at lower altitudes. For the purpose of this study, two qualitative research methods will be used, namely Literature review and Case study. The literature review will help in laying a basic foundation for the study, with a complete and comprehensive description of the prototypical sustainability measures that have been and can be undertaken at various levels to ensure the protection of wildlife habitat in and around ski-resorts. The validity of the claims made and observations as seen in the literature review can then be tested by way of case studies and comparing the same with other available information on ski resorts. Potential Ecological Impacts over the surroundings: The increase in human activity in mountainous regions, have contributed to the rise in global warming, primarily owing to the adverse environmental impacts caused by the development and construction of ski resorts. The constant rush of tourists, and the over the use of natural resources at popular ski resorts, take a toll on the surrounding environment, disturbing the natural habi tat in the process. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of ski resorts attracts tourists in hordes, thus leading to an increased pressure on the natural resources by way of increased demand and consumption of water, energy, and other natural resources, thus further raising deep concerns regarding its sustainability in the long run. Ski resorts, rely heavily on energy to lift and pump water to high altitudes, provide drinking water, operate heavy machinery, and fuel vehicles used for transportation. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding soil degradation caused by construction and constant human activities in ski resorts; leading to loss of vegetation, soil erosion and may lead to increased chances of floods. Flora and fauna are deeply affected due to activities such as the construction of ski slopes. The surrounding environment and the natural habitat of fauna are disturbed due to increased sound levels and noise pollution caused by tourists. Ecological Impacts on the birds' h abitat Almost all types of aspects of tourism have a direct or indirect impact on the wildlife in the surrounding areas.