Ecotourism is responsible
travel to fragile, pristine,
and usually protected areas
that strive to be low impact
and (often) small scale (as
an alternative to mass
tourism).
Its purpose is to educate
the traveler; provide funds
for ecological conservation;
directly benefit the
economic development and
political empowerment of
local communities; and
foster respect for different
cultures and for human
rights.
Generally, ecotourism
focuses on volunteering, or
voluntourism, personal
growth and environmental
responsibility. Ecotourism
typically involves travel to
destinations where flora,
fauna, and cultural heritage
are the primary attractions.
Responsible ecotourism
includes programs that
minimize the negative
aspects of conventional
tourism on the environment
and enhance the cultural
integrity of local people.
Therefore, in addition to
evaluating environmental and
cultural factors, an
integral part of ecotourism
is the promotion of
recycling, energy
efficiency, water
conservation, and creation
of economic opportunities
for local communities.
