Ecoturism
Ecoturism, commonly spelled ecotourism, is a form of sustainable travel to natural areas that aims to protect the environment while supporting the well-being of local communities. It emphasizes conservation, respect for wildlife and habitats, and educational interpretation of ecosystems and cultures. The goal is to minimize negative impacts and to provide financial and social benefits for conservation and local development.
Core principles include minimizing physical, biological, and cultural impacts; building environmental awareness; providing direct financial benefits
Practical approaches include small group visits, low-impact transport, careful waste management, use of licensed guides, defined
Critics warn that ecotourism can fail to deliver benefits or cause harm when external demand bypasses local
Proponents point to examples in regions such as Costa Rica, Namibia, Belize, Madagascar, and parts of the