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Ecotourism

By definition, ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people” (The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990). This was established for the following purposes in tourism: 

  • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
  • Provide financial benefits and empowerment for indigenous people
  • Conservation of biological diversity and cultural diversity through ecosystem protection
  • Minimization of tourism's own environmental impact
  • Affordability and lack of waste in the form of luxury 
Responsible ecotourism is comprised of programs that lessen the adverse aspects of traditional tourism on the environment. This also enhances the cultural integrity of indigenous people. Also, in some countries, this is an integral part for the promotion of recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation, and creation of economic opportunities for the local communities.  

The concept of ecotourism was actually introduced in the 70's but gain prevalence decade later when several countries started taking seriously the preservation of local tourist destinations without compromising the total travel experience. Reserves gain popularity and eventually made ecotourism arguably the fastest growing sub-sector in the tourism industry. This brought a change in tourist perceptions, increased environmental awareness, and a desire to explore natural environments.