What is Sustainable Tourism or Ecotourism?
The Rainforest Alliance defines Sustainable Tourism as “not just limited to areas of ecological significance, but (tourism that) actively aims to reduce negative impacts in a holistic way, in urban, rural, and wilderness areas. Issues confronted include economic viability, socio-cultural sensitivity, and environmental sustainability, at destinations of natural and cultural significance, in both mass tourism and the various niche tourism segments. Sustainable tourism not only examines and responds to the needs of the present, but how current actions will also reduce negative impacts in the long term. ” The International Ecotourism Society (IETS) defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” According to IETS, this means that ” those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following principles: • Minimize impact • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respec
