Ecotourism as a Core of Sustainability in Tourism

Ecotourism, since it was introduced to tourism science through the definition created by Ceballos-Lascurain in 1987, has developed (especially in the theoretical aspect) from the simple admiration for undisturbed natural spaces to the care for these areas as well as for local communities. This approach places it at the centre of sustainable tourism, ensuring even development in three pillars—environmental, social and economic. However, there are still difficulties in introducing its principles to the world of practice and business, despite the growing acceptance of the fact that only such an approach to the development of tourism will ensure success. On the basis of an in-depth literature review that analyses various approaches and definitions, as well as aspects of the phenomenon, such as the impact on natural resources and local communities (both positive and negative), along with the controversy arising in this context, this chapter presents the author’s attempt to show contemporary problems in the development of ecotourism as well as present some examples of good practices in this area.