Resumen de Ecotourism: an fundamental analysis by externality

Wu Xinbo

• Ecotourism has been widely documented as one of the promising alternative strategies to achieve sustainable development. The paper uses content analysis method for reviewing published literature, with the aims to advance the understanding of fundamental elements of ecotourism, providing an analysis by the externalities. It certifies ecotourism is a form of nature-based tourism focused on commodifying the environment for economic gain. Ecotourism offers a series of external benefits to local community. However, it may also create problems of its own with external costs. Ecotourism cannot solve all ecologic resources issues. How to balance ecotourism development and conservation is the core issue of ecotourism sustainable development. In this process, we stress the proper environmental policy and management is necessary.