Ecosystem services of Ecotourism in Agricultural zones

Abstract

The tourism industry has become one the fastest growing global industries and contributes approximately 5 percent to global gross domestic product (GDP) and more than 10 percent to GDP in developing regions (UNWTO, 2015). Increasing tourism pressure around the world, if not managed sustainably, poses socio-economic and environmental challenges, including possible negative consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services (Box 16).

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves responsible travel to natural areas and helps conserve the environment; sustain the well-being of local communities socially, culturally and economically; and create knowledge and understanding through education (in staff, visitors and community members). In short, ecotourism is non-consumptive or non-extractive (i.e. it excludes hunting), creates an ecological conscience and promotes ecocentric values and ethics in relation to nature and its sustainable use.

The nature-based tourism sector (e.g. wildlife viewing, outdoor recreation such as hiking, agritourism), which is dependent on natural settings and environments, is a key ecotourism sector experiencing significant growth (Kuenzi and McNeely, 2008; Balmford et al., 2009). It is widely recognized that these types of tourism are an important ecosystem service (MA, 2005) and are able to generate significant financial resources for local economic development and conservation management.