Forests

Ecotourism as a Market-Based Conservation Scheme

Research Papers and Case Studies
Ecotourism is actively promoted by a large variety of governmental and non-governmental actors, as the new and innovative way to finance the conservation of forests and other ecosystems. In India, ecotourism is convenient because it becomes a lucrative way to speak the conservation language. This paper questions whether ecotourism is actually leading to conservation. Categorised as a market-based conservation scheme, the paper shows how incentives are geared to promote only tourism and not conservation! It analyses the implications of national and state ecotourism policies and regulations, the impacts of financial incentives provided for investment in ecotourism and the resultant alienation of local communities at ecotourism destinations.
Geographies
India
Local Regions/Cities
Chattisgarh, Uthranchal, Madhya Pradesh

EQUATIONS is a research, policy, and advocacy organisation working on tourism and development issues in India. Our work has focused on the economic, environmental, social, cultural, political and administrative impacts of tourism particularly on people living in and around tourism destinations. We collaborate closely with organisations and peoples movements, to influence people-centered forms of tourism & policies that ensure significant local benefits and take into account the negative impacts of an unbridled growth of tourism.

 

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