By Contributing Writer
Ecotourism can be controversial, with critics claiming it puts environments at risk, displaces local populations, and even threatens indigenous cultures. However, ecotourism provides many benefits, such as increasing awareness in global sustainability, growing local communities and economies, and creating environmental protection regulations.
Definition
Ecotourism is defined as tourism dealing with natural resources, with minimal impact on the environment a chief concern.
Awareness
Ecotourism raises awareness of environmental issues. Many destinations offer specific information and tips on how to reduce one's economic impact.
Green Star System
The Green Star System helps tourists decide which ecotourism destinations are best at preserving the environment; the money made with ecotourism is then put back into environmental preservation.
Strategies
Ecotourism often gives rise to environmental protection strategies, which are then implemented to protect the ecology of the surrounding environment.
Growth
Revenue from ecotourism has been used to build roads, schools and other public works projects; it also provides jobs for the local community and continues to protect the local environment.
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