Ecotourism equations: do economic benefits equal conservation?
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This chapter compares the outcome of the two conservation paradigms (equations) with a descriptive analysis of selected case studies in ecotourism. The chapter begins by reviewing a (non-exhaustive) set of case studies that illustrate the first equation. Again, that equation predicts conservation as an outcome primarily of economic benefits from ecotourism. Second, the alternative paradigm is discussed, which posits that conservation results when economic benefits from ecotourism are combined with the institution-building benefits of community participation. Then, presents a brief case study of ecotourism and sea turtle protection in Praia do Forte, Bahia, Brazil. In this case, local residents have received economic benefits - employment and income - from ecotourism, but have not participated in management, which exemplifies the first equation. It is argued with this case that economic benefits are important for short-term conservation goals of ecotourism, but that greater involvement of the community in conservation efforts may help sustain conservation success over time.
