Ecotourism in SC – South Carolina Public Radio

Report on Sustainable Ecotourism Development at Isle of Palms, SC

Introduction

Tourism remains a significant economic driver for the state, contributing substantially to local economies. A notable development within this sector is the rise of ecotourism, which aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), life below water (SDG 14), and life on land (SDG 15).

Profile: Barrier Island EcoTours

Barrier Island EcoTours, co-founded and operated by Shane Ziegler, is a pioneering ecotourism enterprise located at the Isle of Palms, South Carolina. The company exemplifies sustainable tourism practices by promoting environmental awareness and conservation through guided nature tours.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

1. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Barrier Island EcoTours emphasizes sustainable use of natural resources.
   • Educational tours encourage tourists to minimize their ecological footprint.
2. SDG 14: Life Below Water
   • The tours focus on the protection and appreciation of marine ecosystems surrounding the barrier islands.
   • Activities are designed to avoid disruption of aquatic habitats.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Conservation of coastal and island terrestrial habitats is a key component of the tours.
   • Participants learn about local flora and fauna, fostering a conservation mindset.

Economic and Environmental Impact

• Supports local economy by attracting eco-conscious tourists.
• Promotes sustainable job creation within the community.
• Enhances public understanding of environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Barrier Island EcoTours serves as a model for integrating sustainable development principles into the tourism industry. By aligning with key SDGs, it contributes to economic growth while preserving the natural environment for future generations.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The article highlights tourism as a major economic contributor, emphasizing sustainable economic growth through ecotourism.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Ecotourism promotes sustainable practices in tourism, encouraging responsible consumption of natural resources.
3. SDG 14: Life Below Water
   • Barrier Island EcoTours likely focuses on marine and coastal ecosystems, supporting conservation of aquatic life.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Ecotourism activities on the Isle of Palms contribute to the protection and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.8: Ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.
3. SDG 14: Life Below Water
   • Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. SDG 8 Indicators
   • Indicator 8.9.1: Tourism direct GDP as a proportion of total GDP and in growth rate.
   • Indicator 8.9.2: Proportion of jobs in sustainable tourism industries out of total tourism jobs.
2. SDG 12 Indicators
   • Indicator 12.8.1: Extent to which sustainable development information is integrated into education and awareness-raising activities.
3. SDG 14 Indicators
   • Indicator 14.2.1: Proportion of national exclusive economic zones managed using ecosystem-based approaches.
4. SDG 15 Indicators
   • Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area.
   • Indicator 15.1.2: Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: southcarolinapublicradio.org