Tourism has long been big business in Indiana. The industry has consistently pumped billions of dollars into the state’s economy and serves as the 13th largest employer of Hoosiers, according to a report from the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC)
Now, as people from all over the world continue to place more of an emphasis on their impact on the environment, the demand for greener travel experiences is widening an additional revenue stream in the travel and hospitality industry. Eco-tourism, where the destination is about reaching nature and culture, isn’t just a fleeting trend. Researchers predict that the global eco-tourism market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 14.5%, reaching over $998 billion by 2032.
That forward momentum is a major leap to sustainability with financial benefits that contribute a lot of green for local economies.
What is Eco-Tourism?
Think kayaking, hiking, camping, nature tours, trails, waterways, museums, and parks. Eco-tourism has been termed “responsible travel” for tourists interested in exploring areas while being mindful of their environmental impact. Eco-tourists elect destinations where they can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy the heritage of the area, and find learning opportunities about ecosystems, all while being aware of their carbon footprint.
It is about getting back to nature and enjoying areas where the land has been largely undisturbed and the history has been preserved. Indiana is rich in eco-tourism offerings, from farm-to-fork programs to winery tours. It’s the 24 state parks, however, that draw a wider interest in eco-tourism activities.
From the geological wonders in Shades State Park in the central part of the state, to the beach at Indiana Dunes State Park to the North and the miles of trails at Harmonie State Park along the Wabash to the south, there are ample opportunities for eco-tourists. The parks also appeal to different activity levels – from birdwatching to rock climbing.
An Economic Engine
Eco-tourism’s socioeconomic impact is both direct and indirect. In the immediate, eco-tourists are supporting local businesses including restaurants, specialty shops and adventure programs during the visit. Moreover, eco-tourism plays a significant role in stimulating long-term value for communities and industry through the “multiplier effect” or how that initial revenue continues economic activity in the community through paid wages and supply purchases.
Eco-tourism also offers a higher return on investment relative to preservation costs. Conservation, maintenance and lighter facility development costs can be considerably lower than the costs of implementing, operating and maintaining larger tourism attractions. The long-term revenue generated over time from eco-tourism outweighs the costs to preserve and maintain existing natural sites.
Tax revenue from tourism is a major economic driver. Dollars generated from sales, occupancy, and tourism taxes feed back into local and state governments for use in public services, including education, healthcare, utility expansion and other infrastructure. Improved and well-maintained facilities create areas that are more attractive for investors and business development.
As a growing and evolving landscape, eco-tourism is an ideal move toward strengthening Indiana’s economy while contributing to a healthier environment for Hoosiers.
