Why is ecotourism necessary?

• To provide an opportunity to visit protected or relatively unexplored areas without damaging or change the original character and appearance.
• To provide economic incentives for local communities to safeguard their unique natural resources
• To increase the chance that money spent by travelers will remain within the local community

Has ecotourism lived up to its promise?

There are differing views. The links below provide an introduction to the debate. The books suggested in Read About It offer in-depth discussion on the issue.

Why the Shift to Ecotourism?

Ecotourism Primer

Economic Impacts of Ecotourism

Ecotourism and its Effects on Wildlife

Ecotourism Statistics