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Ecotourism is nature-oriented tourism,
which consists of the following:
- Purposeful travel to natural areas to understand
the natural and cultural history of the area and the surrounding
environment.
- Taking care of and not altering the integrity
of the ecosystem
- Producing economic opportunities that make
conservation of the natural resources beneficial to the local
people.
The International Ecotourism Society defines Ecotourism as "responsible
travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves
the well-being of local people."
This means that those who implement and participate
in ecotourism activities should follow the following principles:
- Minimize impact
- Build environmental and cultural awareness
and respect
- Provide positive experiences for both visitors
and hosts
- Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
- Provide financial benefits and empowerment
for local people
- Raise sensitivity to host countries' political,
environmental, and social climate
- Support international human rights and labor
agreements
Other websites: http://www.uneptie.org/pc/tourism/ecotourism/other_websites.htm
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