Sustainable tourism is a way of positively managing tourism for the benefit of the visitors, residents and the environment (working with the environment rather that against it). This ensures the long-term survival of the environment, to be enjoyed by future generations.
Sustainable tourism helps local people create and maintain quality long-term jobs. It also aims to buy goods and services locally and generally fit in with the character of the area.
Sustainable Tourism brings many benefits:
- The environment is protected and enhanced; resources are used sparingly, reducing waste and pollution.
- The local community benefit through support for the local economy and local services - such as transport and shops.
- Sustainable Tourism creates new business opportunities for local people; by providing accommodation, for example.
- Visitors and tourists benefit from the maintenance of the local landscape. Adopting the concept of sustainable tourism fosters a better relationship with the local community, making the visitor's stay even more enjoyable.