Ecotourism
emerged as a nature-based manifestation of alternative
tourism, which is still regarded by some academics
and practitioners as the most legitimate manifestation
of this sector. While an analysis of the three core
criteria of ecotourism points to the suitability of
high order protected areas as ecotourism venues, modified
spaces also have potential with regard to the latter,
and may have distinct environmental advantages. Urban
places, in particular, accommodate at least five types
of ecotourism product, suggesting that urban ecotourism
is a complex and high carrying capacity phenomenon
that can be focused around the themes of restoration
and enhancement, while diverting some visitation away
from vulnerable natural areas. The idea of mass ecotourism
also remains somewhat contentious in light of ecotourism’s
origins, yet like urban ecotourism is an increasingly
recognized phenomenon that has the potential to produce
positive environmental impacts because of its economies
of scale and tendency to be confined into manageable
restricted spaces. However, for these advantages to
be realized, it is essential that mass ecotourism
be implemented in conformance with a comprehensive
model of ecotourism that emphasizes ecosystems-based
attractions, transformational education, and sustainable
management that enhances the environment at a global
scale. |
