Ecotourism: A Sustainable Approach to Travel - TOEFL iBT® Reading Practice Test

In the TOEFL Reading test, you’ll encounter passages aimed at evaluating your ability to comprehend, analyze, and interpret text. Passages like 'Ecotourism: A Sustainable Approach to Travel' are crafted to engage you with relevant, real-world topics while testing critical reading skills. Working through these passages helps build the focus and insight necessary to tackle complex information effectively.

Practicing with such content can sharpen your readiness for the TOEFL Reading section, building the analytical and comprehension skills needed to succeed.

Reading Instructions: 

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions related to it.
• Most questions are worth 1 point, but the last question is worth more. The directions indicate how many points you will receive for that specific question.
• The specific section/paragraphs have been provided again with the question for ease of understanding and quick solution.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference.

Directions: Once you have read the passage, answer the following questions.

Paragraph 1

Eco-friendly travel has become an important movement within the larger tourism industry. It encourages responsible travel to natural areas while protecting the environment and supporting local communities. This type of tourism focuses on long-lasting practices, education, and preserving the variety of life. The idea gained popularity in the late 20th century, especially during the 1980s and 1990s. People became more aware of environmental issues and the negative effects of mass tourism on fragile ecosystems. As a result, eco-friendly travel aims to create a harmonious relationship between visitors and the ecosystems they explore, encouraging a deeper appreciation for nature.

Factual Information Question

1. According to paragraph 1, what is one of the main focuses of eco-friendly travel? 
   
   1. Reducing travel costs 
   2. Supporting local communities 
   3. Increasing the number of tourists 
   4. Promoting luxury accommodations 

Negative Factual Information Question

1. In paragraph 1, each of the following is mentioned as a characteristic of eco-friendly travel EXCEPT: 
   
   1. Responsible travel to natural areas 
   2. Education about environmental issues 
   3. Encouragement of mass tourism 
   4. Preservation of biodiversity 

Paragraph 2

One of the main rules of eco-friendly travel is reducing ecological footprints. This means using practices that cut down on waste, save resources, and protect living areas. For instance, many eco-friendly travel operators use renewable energy sources, like solar or wind power, to lessen their reliance on fossil fuels. They also promote the use of local materials in construction and encourage visitors to adopt sustainable practices, such as recycling and responsible waste disposal. By focusing on caring for the environment, eco-friendly travel aims to reduce the negative effects associated with traditional tourism, which can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. Therefore, adopting sustainable practices is not just helpful but essential for the future of both the tourism industry and the ecosystems it relies on.

Inference Question

1. What can be inferred about the relationship between eco-friendly travel and traditional tourism based on paragraph 2? 
   
   1. Eco-friendly travel is more expensive than traditional tourism. 
   2.  Eco-friendly travel aims to mitigate the negative impacts of traditional tourism. 
   3. Traditional tourism has no impact on the environment. 
   4. Eco-friendly travel is less popular than traditional tourism. 

Vocabulary Question

1. The phrase "ecological footprints" in paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to: 
   
   1. The physical size of a tourist's luggage 
   2. The environmental impact of human activities 
   3. The distance travelled by tourists 
   4. The number of tourists visiting a location 

Paragraph 3

In addition, eco-friendly travel strongly emphasizes community involvement and support. Local communities are often key to the eco-friendly travel experience, providing cultural insights, traditional knowledge, and services to visitors. This teamwork can bring economic benefits to these communities, as they receive a share of the income from eco-friendly travel activities. For instance, in Costa Rica, many indigenous groups have developed eco-friendly travel projects that let them showcase their culture and natural heritage while also preserving their land and traditions. This model supports local economies and fosters a sense of pride among community members, encouraging them to protect their environment. However, its important to ensure that such projects genuinely benefit the community and do not misuse local resources or people.

Rhetorical Purpose Question

1. Why does the author mention Costa Rica in paragraph 3? 
   
   1. To illustrate a successful eco-friendly travel project 
   2. To criticise the lack of community involvement in tourism 
   3. To highlight the challenges faced by indigenous groups 
   4. To suggest that eco-friendly travel is only possible in certain countries 

Paragraph 4

Despite its many benefits, eco-friendly travel faces challenges. Some opponents argue that the term "eco-friendly travel" is often misused, leading to practices that don't align with its core rules. For example, some operators may label their activities as eco-friendly while actually engaging in harmful practices, like excessive development or exploiting wildlife. This issue, known as "greenwashing," can weaken the trustworthiness of real eco-friendly travel initiatives and mislead travellers looking for sustainable options. So, its important for travellers to do their research and choose operators that follow established eco-friendly travel standards and certifications. Additionally, the lack of regulation in some areas can make these problems worse, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines and accountability.

Sentence Simplification Question

1. Which of the sentences below best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 4? 
   

   "Some operators may label their activities as eco-friendly while actually engaging in harmful practices, like excessive development or exploiting wildlife." 

   1. Some operators genuinely follow eco-friendly practices. 
   2. Some operators misrepresent their activities as eco-friendly. 
   3. All operators are committed to eco-friendly travel. 
   4. Eco-friendly practices are always beneficial for wildlife. 

Paragraph 5

Also, the growing popularity of eco-friendly travel can lead to unexpected consequences, like overcrowding in sensitive areas. As more visitors flock to natural destinations, the ecosystems that eco-friendly travel aims to protect can become stressed. This can lead to habitat degradation, increased pollution, and disturbances to local wildlife. For instance, in the Galpagos Islands, a rise in tourist numbers has raised concerns about the impact on unique species and fragile habitats. To tackle these issues, many eco-friendly travel destinations are putting visitor management strategies in place, such as limiting the number of tourists allowed in certain areas or creating designated trails to reduce environmental impact. These measures are crucial for ensuring that eco-friendly travel remains a workable option for future generations, as they help balance visitor needs with the need to protect natural resources.

Prose Summary Question

1. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of paragraph 5 is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the TWO answer choices that express the most important ideas in the paragraph. 
   

   The growing popularity of eco-friendly travel can lead to: 

   1. Overcrowding in sensitive natural areas. 
   2. Increased awareness of environmental issues. 
   3. Strategies to manage visitor numbers and protect ecosystems. 
   4. A decline in the number of eco-friendly travel operators. 

Paragraph 6

To sum up, eco-friendly travel offers a hopeful approach to travel that prioritises environmental conservation and community well-being. By fostering a deeper understanding of environmental systems and encouraging sustainable practices, eco-friendly travel can create positive changes in both local communities and the natural world. However, it is essential for everyone involvedtravellers, operators, and policymakersto stay alert in their efforts to uphold the principles of eco-friendly travel. As the movement continues to grow, ongoing discussions and collaboration will be vital in addressing the challenges it faces and ensuring its long-term success. Ultimately, eco-friendly travel not only provides a unique travel experience but also serves as an important tool for promoting global sustainability and environmental awareness, leaving room for further exploration into its effectiveness and potential for growth in the future.

Purpose of the Passage Question

1. What is the main purpose of the passage? 
   
   1. To promote eco-friendly travel as the only option for tourists 
   2. To discuss the principles, benefits, and challenges of eco-friendly travel 
   3. To compare eco-friendly travel with traditional tourism 
   4. To provide a history of the tourism industry 

Insert Missing Sentence Question

1. In paragraph 6, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added. 
   

   "By engaging in eco-friendly practices, travellers can contribute to the preservation of the environment." 
   

   Where would the sentence best fit? 

   1. To sum up, eco-friendly travel offers a hopeful approach to travel that prioritises environmental conservation and community well-being. 
   2. By fostering a deeper understanding of environmental systems and encouraging sustainable practices, eco-friendly travel can create positive changes in both local communities and the natural world. 
   3. However, it is essential for everyone involvedtravellers, operators, and policymakersto stay alert in their efforts to uphold the principles of eco-friendly travel. 
   4. As the movement continues to grow, ongoing discussions and collaboration will be vital in addressing the challenges it faces and ensuring its long-term success. 

Prose Summary Question

1. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. 

   Eco-friendly travel is a movement that aims to: 

   1. Encourage responsible travel while protecting the environment. 
   2. Promote mass tourism as a sustainable option. 
   3. Support local communities and preserve biodiversity. 
   4. Address the challenges of traditional tourism practices. 

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Ecotourism: A Sustainable Approach to Travel

1. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage explicitly states that eco-friendly travel encourages responsible travel while protecting the environment and supporting local communities. This indicates that supporting local communities is a primary focus of eco-friendly travel, distinguishing it from other forms of tourism.

2. Answer: C

Explanation: The passage discusses how eco-friendly travel aims to create a harmonious relationship between visitors and ecosystems, particularly in contrast to mass tourism, which is noted for its negative effects on fragile ecosystems. Therefore, encouraging mass tourism is not a characteristic of eco-friendly travel.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage highlights that eco-friendly travel focuses on reducing ecological footprints and mitigating the negative effects associated with traditional tourism, such as habitat destruction and pollution. This suggests that eco-friendly travel is a response to the challenges posed by traditional tourism.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: "Ecological footprints" refers to the overall impact that human activities have on the environment, including resource consumption and waste generation. This aligns with the context in which the term is used in the passage, focusing on reducing negative environmental impacts.

5. Answer: A

Explanation: The mention of Costa Rica serves as an example of how indigenous groups have developed eco-friendly travel projects that showcase their culture while preserving their land. This illustrates a successful implementation of eco-friendly travel principles, highlighting the positive outcomes for local communities.

6. Answer: B

Explanation: The original sentence discusses how some operators falsely label their activities as eco-friendly while engaging in harmful practices. Option B succinctly captures this idea of misrepresentation, making it the best choice.

7. Answer: A and C

Explanation: The passage discusses how the popularity of eco-friendly travel can result in overcrowding, which stresses ecosystems. It also mentions that destinations are implementing management strategies to address these issues, making both A and C the most important ideas.

8. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage provides a comprehensive overview of eco-friendly travel, including its principles, benefits, and the challenges it faces. This aligns with option B, which encapsulates the main purpose of the text.

9. Answer: B

Explanation: The missing sentence complements the idea of encouraging sustainable practices, making it a logical addition to the discussion about how eco-friendly travel can lead to positive changes.

10. Answer: A, C and D

Explanation: The passage emphasizes the goals of eco-friendly travel, including responsible travel, community support, and addressing the negative impacts of traditional tourism. Option B is incorrect as it contradicts the principles of eco-friendly travel.

Studying passages like 'Ecotourism: A Sustainable Approach to Travel' provides valuable practice for TOEFL Reading. These exercises not only improve comprehension but also prepare you to analyze diverse subjects with ease, giving you the tools to approach the TOEFL with greater confidence.

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