Sustainable tourism helps protect the

environment:

Many countries around the world depend on tourism as their main

industry in providing jobs in rural areas and bringing in funds that
would be otherwise out of their reach. Financial resources and
employment are critical for local livelihoods and security. But as more
and more countries focus on expanding their tourism sites, they often
encounter problems with overconsumption of their finite natural
resources, pollution, and degradation. This easily spirals into
undesirable situations of negative impacts on the local environment
and society.

Tourism as a fast-growing industry must follow the principles of

sustainability in order to last long term while maintaining positive
impacts for an area. In terms of environment, this means consumption
of natural resources within acceptable limits, protecting biodiversity
and making sure that essential ecological processes can take place,
while providing a pleasant experience to visiting tourists.

A part of striving towards sustainability is also raising awareness

about the unique natural features of an area and educating visitors
about their sustainable management. This helps them to understand
the rules set in place and respect differences.