Ecotourism as Environmental Learning

Commercial ecotourism is a rapidly growing part of the global tourism industry. Although potential negative impacts must be addressed, ecotourism offers a substantial opportunity for environmental learning. However, simply taking visitors to unique sites does not guarantee learning. In the present article, methods to emphasize the learning content of ecotourism, while retaining the entertainment value, are identified. A Smithsonian Institute study trip led by the author is discussed as an example. Additional informationNotes on contributorsJames R. Kimmel James R. Kimmel is an associate professor in the Department of Geography and Planning at Southwest Texas State University.