What Is Ecotourism and Why Is It Important?

What is Ecotourism?
According to The International Ecotourism Society, the ecotourism definition is: “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

Ecotourism is focused on uniting conservation, communities and sustainable travel. There are several guidelines in place for those who partake in ecotourism. Namely, ecotourism:

• Focuses on pristine, unspoiled natural environments
• Minimizes impact on the environment
• Builds environmental and cultural awareness and respect
• Provides positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
• Provides direct financial benefits for conservation
• Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people
• Raises awareness to host countries’ political, environmental and social climate

Now, this may seem like a tall order, but the aim of sustainable travel is a big vision. Given the very real threats of deforestation, a decline in biodiversity, and global climate change, ecotourism is more important than ever.

On the other hand, what is NOT Ecotourism?
Just as important as the question “what is ecotourism” is understanding what it isn’t. For instance, someone may consider a walk through the rainforest to be an ecotourism activity. But this isn’t the case unless perhaps the particular rainforest trail benefits the environment and/or the local community. Some may also consider a rafting trip to be an ecotourism activity; however, this cannot be considered ecotourism unless it raises awareness and/or funds to help protect the watershed.

When in doubt, it’s best to consider all the definition parameters as set forth by The International Ecotourism Society.

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