What can be done to solve the problems caused by international tourism Essay

What can be done to solve the problems caused by international tourism - Essay Example 39). When it comes to resource usage, international tourism puts pressure on the available natural resources due to increased consumption. Water is one of the resources that is overused for swimming pools, hotels and golf courses among other uses. Secondly, resource usage creates pressure on the local resources such as food, energy and raw materials. Finally, international tourism may lead to land degradation, where the need for recreational and tourism facilities has put pressure on forests, minerals, wetlands and wildlife (Sunlu, 2003 p. 264). The second aspect is pollution, and the main forms of pollution include air pollution, solid waste discharge and sewage pollution. Just as there are varied impacts of international tourism on the environment, so are the solutions. Some of the key strategies that can be used are discussed. First, many have called for the development of Environmental Education, which aims at making the local populations aware and conscious of their environment (Skanavis & Sakellari, 2011 p. 241). Such programs target the tourists and teach them on how best to enjoy their holidays/vacations without causing significant damage to the environment. This appears to be the most effective way since it places the idea of environmental conservation in the hands of the locals and the tourists themselves who are the major stakeholders in this industry. Secondly, there is need for governments and local authorities to put measures in place that will promote responsible and sustainable forms of tourism (Borelli & Brogna, 2000 p. 8). Through this approach, the government can regulate the types of tourist activities that take place in the country . This will also control the materials/products brought into the country by the tourists which could harm the environment. Since this is a legislative approach, there is the likelihood that political interference might derail the formulation of necessary laws. If such legislation or