Tourism is unnecessary. To what extent do you agree?

Hook: In the era of climate change and globalisation, the necessity of tourism is increasingly questioned.
Background: Brief overview of the tourism industry’s role in the global economy and its environmental and cultural impacts.
Thesis Statement: While some argue that tourism is unnecessary due to its environmental impact and cultural commodification, it remains a vital industry that fosters economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding, demonstrating that its benefits outweigh the drawbacks when managed sustainably.

Topic Sentence: Critics argue that tourism is unnecessary because it significantly harms the environment.
Example 1: The environmental degradation caused by mass tourism in popular destinations like Venice, where over-tourism has led to pollution and the destruction of local ecosystems.
Example 2: The carbon footprint of air travel, which contributes to global warming and climate change, as highlighted by studies from organisations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Analysis: Discuss how these examples demonstrate the substantial negative impact of tourism on the environment, supporting the argument that it is unnecessary.

Topic Sentence: Tourism often leads to the commodification of cultures, undermining their authenticity and value.
Example 1: The transformation of indigenous practices into tourist attractions, which can strip cultural traditions of their original meaning and context, as seen with the Maasai tribes in Kenya.
Example 2: The proliferation of “Disneyfication” in historic cities, where cultural heritage sites are altered to meet tourist expectations, diminishing their historical significance, as observed in cities like Prague.
Analysis: Examine how these examples illustrate the cultural costs of tourism, arguing that such commodification diminishes its value.

Topic Sentence: Tourism is a critical driver of economic growth and development, particularly in developing countries.
Example 1: The economic boom experienced by countries like Thailand, where tourism significantly contributes to GDP, job creation, and infrastructure development.
Example 2: The role of tourism in revitalising rural and economically disadvantaged areas, such as the Scottish Highlands, where it supports local businesses and communities.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples highlight the economic benefits of tourism, demonstrating its necessity for economic sustainability.

Topic Sentence: Tourism promotes cultural exchange and global understanding, fostering peace and mutual respect.
Example 1: Educational and cultural exchange programmes, such as study abroad opportunities, which enhance intercultural competence and global awareness among students.
Example 2: Community-based tourism initiatives, like those in Costa Rica, which allow tourists to engage with local cultures in meaningful ways, promoting sustainable practices and mutual respect.
Analysis: Explore how these examples show the positive impact of tourism on cultural understanding and global cooperation, underscoring its value.

Restate Thesis: While tourism faces criticisms for its environmental and cultural impacts, its role in driving economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding affirms its necessity, provided it is managed sustainably.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasise the need for sustainable tourism practices that mitigate negative impacts while maximising benefits, ensuring that tourism remains a valuable and necessary part of global society.