Why is ecotourism a good idea?
Ecotourism can present a sustainable alternative for the development of natural areas. For instance, the government of Gabon announced in 2002 that 11% of its land would be protected, generating income through ecotourism, also representing security for highly valuable tracts of rainforest. There are great examples of successful ecotourism. The award winning Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Borneo is a model of sustainable ecotourism. The lodge is built on stilts to minimise soil erosion and vegetation damage. It is entirely self-suffiencient, using solar energy and rainwater. Electric motor boats are used for tours to reduce noise and water pollution. Another example is the Tanjung Putin National Park Orang Outang reserve in Borneo. Tours are limited to 12 individuals who are also invited to take part in Orang Outang research programs. Ecotourism has been shown to benefit local people. For instance, the Maasai are a group of cattle herders in Kenya and Tanzania. Their job opportunities were v
