I. Introduction
- 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.
II. Supporting View 1: Environmental Impact
- 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.
III. Supporting View 2: Cultural Commodification
- 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.
IV. Opposing View 1: Economic Growth
- 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.
V. Opposing View 2: Cultural Exchange and Global Understanding
- 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.
VI. Conclusion
- 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.