New paradigms of ecotourism in the international scenario

Ecotourism was a concept in the past, now it's a word encompassing many different practices in the nature-based tourism, and sometimes being used instead of "sustainable tourism". Most recent and advanced projects go beyond... [ view full abstract ]

Ecotourism was a concept in the past, now it's a word encompassing many different practices in the nature-based tourism, and sometimes being used instead of "sustainable tourism". Most recent and advanced projects go beyond the old definitions (from IUCN, UNWTO, etc.) focusing on the original meaning of "eco" (from ancient Greek: "home") and stressing the indissoluble linkage between local community and environment which must be the first assumption for any ecotourism activity. Therefore tourism activity became an experience of meeting a "territory", and must be a win-win exchange between ecotourist, local inhabitant and environment (including cultural assets). Eco-tourists must come back home with upgraded awareness of sustainability concerns, resident must upgrade his awareness of local heritage and his capacity in influencing tourism-related decisions. Some recent studies will be quoted on new perspectives of ecotourism-based activities and products.