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## Ecotourism Ecotourism was coined in 1965 by Claus-Dieter Hetzer but it was Hector Ceballos-Lascurain, a Mexican architect and environmentalist, who popularized the term in 1983. In the Philippines, the concept of ecotourism was introduced in 1992. The organizational structure for the developmen...

## Ecotourism Ecotourism was coined in 1965 by Claus-Dieter Hetzer but it was Hector Ceballos-Lascurain, a Mexican architect and environmentalist, who popularized the term in 1983. In the Philippines, the concept of ecotourism was introduced in 1992. The organizational structure for the development of ecotourism in the Philippines was formed on June 17, 1999, with the issuance of Executive Order 111 series of 1999 by then President Joseph Estrada. Ecotourism occupies a special place in Republic Act 9593, also known as Tourism Act of 2009. ### Definitions Ecotourism is "destination-based visits/ tours and considered to be small-scale tourism development using local products and produce with a clear orientation to local flora and fauna" tourism. - **Society's Dictionary:** Ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustain the well-being of local people". International Ecotourism Society (1991) - **Ecotourism** as "environmentally responsible travel and visitation to relatively undisturbed natural areas in order to enjoy and appreciate nature...". The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (1994) (now the World Conservation Union) - Indonesian: ecotourism as activities of responsible travelling in intact areas or in areas which are named according to the role of nature. - Thailand: the concept as "tourism in a natural environment where tourism resources are well". ### Potential Benefits of Ecotourism - More than several animals as well as a wide variety of unique species. - Underground rivers - Whale sharks - The migratory birds The benefits include: - Conservation - Raising awareness of local culture - Inclusion of women - A sustainable alternative to mass tourism which is often associated with negative environmental impacts - It can help to reduce the negative social impacts of tourism and increase local community ownership and participation. Instead of solving problems, Ecotourism has contributed to: - Tag the conscience of - Integrating sustainable ecotourism activities - Unveiling new destinations