Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas -- in the remote wilderness or urban environments. According to the definition and principles of ecotourism established by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990, ecotourism is "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990). Martha Honey, expands on the TIES definition by describing the seven characteristics of ecotourism, which are:

Involves travel to natural destinations

Minimizes impact

Builds environmental awareness

Provides direct financial benefits for conservation

Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people

Respects local culture

Supports human rights and democratic movements[4]
[5][6] such as:

conservation of biological diversity and cultural diversity through ecosystem protection

promotion of sustainable use of biodiversity, by providing jobs to local populations
sharing of socio-economic benefits with local communities and indigenous peoples by having their informed consent and participation in the management of ecotourism enterprises

tourism to unspoiled natural resources, with minimal impact on the environment being a primary concern.

minimization of tourism's own environmental impact

affordability and lack of waste in the form of luxury

local culture, flora and fauna being the main attractions

local people benefit from this form of tourism economically, often more than mass tourism