In class, we have been talking about sustainable development and the use of standards and “labels.” Throughout Nepal, being surrounded in the sublime of the Himalayan Mountains, we have been awestruck at the wonders of nature. Thus, we found Pokhara and Dolaka so appealing because the lodges there accommodated to our comfort and our desire to experience the mountains of Nepal. And of course, their sustainable practices and eco-tourism labeling has given us the greater comfort and has helped to soothe our consciences.

I’m not saying that these practices are bad. On the contrary, I greatly appreciate it and hope that they continue. But the issue that was raised in class was that eco-tourism is drawing nature-seekers from all over the world. Now, people are travelling thousands of miles on huge boeings to participate in this eco-tourism. That is a significant carbon footprint.

Having said that, you cannot simply uproot these mountains and let each continent have their turn. There is really only one way to see these mountains. But is eco-tourism really sustainable if it brings more travelers to come to these mountains attracted by the labeling of “eco-tourism”? Maybe, maybe not.