Known for their independent and principled approach to traveling, backpackers have always been in step with notions of ecotourism and responsible travel. And, thanks to a new generation of hostels which encourage sustainable travel – from organic produce to compost toilets – there’s now even more opportunity to help protect and conserve the planet’s stunning scenery and natural resources for generations of travelers to come.

Green, green, green, green, green. It seems to be all we hear these days. I find the new ads and the companies emerging as "green" interesting so I don't tire at the word green. I cannot help but worry that some will be completely turned off at the concept since it's so aggressively being advertised. Of course some tuned out long before it became a topic and others have been full blown green well before the rest of us. I suppose most of us fall somewhere between the two.

Keep in mind that there have been a lot of people who have taken part in the studies of ecotourism and the whole world has been part of the study as well. You will find that there are many parts of the world and different locations that have become a better community or area because of the understanding of the side effects of ecotourism. You will want to make sure that you learn ho to survive under these conditions and that you learn how you can make things better for your community as well.