Ecotourism is considered a sustainable solution for ecosystem preservation around the globe. However, there is controversy surrounding the claims of the industry and if it is sustainable as it seems. Developing a pros and cons list regarding the debates of ecotourism is a great way to asses the credibility of ecotourism.
Pros
Provides a sustainable income for local communities: Ecotourism can bring new jobs accompanied by a source of income for the community.
Assists in research and development: In ecotourism, people have the opportunity of exposure to new management practices and research. Furthering environmental conversation efforts and knowledge.
New environmental experiences: Eco-tourists gain a greater respect and knowledge pertaining nature and its renewable qualities. While the industry provides people with new experiences working in the environment.
Environmental Education: Develops environmental education programs and a focus on conservation of the environment in the community.
Cons
Potential for destroying natural habitats: With increased traffic in ecosystem there can be disorderly tourism leading to harmful actions such as littering, destruction of wildlife, disruption in the food chain...etc.
Conflicts between ecotourism and locals: If an ecotourism agency wants to develop without consent of the locals there will be conflicts in upkeep. Local efforts to manage ecotourism locations is crucial for a sustainable practice.
Risk in disrupting ecosystems: In a concentrated cycle of people going to ecotourism locations, there is a higher risk of disrupting the organisms who reside there.
Misuse by local communities: Local communities will openly harbor ecotourism sites but not for any of the PROS listed above, rather it is only being used for the income. This leads to a rapid decline in the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Either way ecotourism will have good and bad affects on the environment and surrounding communities. They must have well planned dynamics and motives in order to be sustainable.
Let me know your thoughts based on the pros and cons list above!
Check out the LINK BELOW for some ecotourism examples in the U.S.
https://ecotourism-world.com/5-recommended-ecotourism-sites-in-the-united-states-2/