Environmental Awareness
Promoting earth friendly travel, even on the small scale, spurs an interest in nature and increases the desire of visitors to protect the environment and reduce their carbon footprint on future vacations.
Economic Growth
Ecotourism attractions promote economic growth within a community. When the path less traveled is promoted as a natural attraction, local businesses enjoy increased sales.
Business Development
New businesses take shape, even when the natural attraction is not as large as the Smoky Mountains or a Florida seashore. Campgrounds, rails to trails projects and tour guide services grow as eco-tourists discover an area.
Trail Maintenance
The infusion of funds gained by small-scale ecotourism is not limited to the business sector. Government grants and donations to maintain trails and develop roads leading to natural attractions benefit the overall condition of an outdoor area.
Cultural Tolerance
Exposure to various cultures or a rural community enhances cultural tolerance and a sharing of ideas between visitors and residents.
Article Written By Tara Dodrill
Tara Dodrill began writing professionally in 1990. She is a travel writer and photographer working for print and online media, primarily covering Florida, ecotourism and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Her writing credits include RUMBUM, Yahoo News, Visit South magazine,and North Carolina Coastal Guide. She studied journalism and education at Ohio University and real estate at Hondros College.
