Impact of sustainable tourism on costa rica

"Impact of sustainable tourism on Costa Rica"

A literature review

Table of Contents

Abstract………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1-2

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2

Historical Background………………………………………………………………………………………. 2-3

Impacts of Eco-tourism on the Environment of Costa Rica………………………………….. 4-5

Impacts of Eco-tourism on the Culture of Costa Rica Locals…………………………………. 5

Impacts of Eco-tourism on the Economy of Costa Rica…………………………………………. 5-7

Problems or Gaps in the Existent Body of Literature…………………………………………….. 7

Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7-8

References……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8-9

ABSTRACT

Sustainable tourism, or nature-oriented travel, is a rapidly growing phenomenon. Developing countries can realize many economic and environmental benefits through a combination of ecotourism, parks management and community development. Eco-tourism can play a significant role, providing community benefits that in turn provide incentives for nature conservation.

The purpose of this paper is to report and analyse the positive and negative effects caused by eco-tourism in Costa Rica; critically examine the impacts and challenges of eco-tourism; analyse the impact it has on the natural environment, the fauna and the flora; the potential effects generated on the locals; the economic and financial benefits it brings to the local community; and look at ways in which ecotourism and sustainable development can be evaluated in Costa Rica.

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What are the impacts and challenges of ecotourism? What are the possible benefits that ecotourism can bring? Should eco-tourism be encouraged even more?

INTRODUCTION

Sustainable tourism, or eco-tourism, is a phenomenon which is rapidly growing and spreading all over the world since the early 1980s,making people want to responsibly travel to natural areas trying to conserve the environment and improve the welfare of the locals. Sustainable tourism aims not to reduce the availability of resources and not to inhibit future travellers from enjoying the same experience. It includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in...