ECOTOURISM: BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND COMMUNITY WELL-BEING

Ecotourism has been created to focus on the environment and provide conservation, economic and social benefits. Ecotourism is often seen as an effective tool to provide conservation funding, employment opportunities in rural areas and improve well-being. As shown within this literature there are many factors that can affect the benefits. This article focuses on the benefits and challenges of using ecotourism. It shows how ecotourism can provide environmental benefits, economic benefits and improve well-being. A qualitative approach was taken by using academic literature, official sources and case studies. The research looked at ecotourism in Uzbekistan and protected areas. The results showed that ecotourism can help protect protected areas, provide diverse income and increase awareness. However, it can cause pressure on the environment, uneven income and lack of control within the community. To help ensure ecotourism is successful in the long term community based models should be used, clear guidelines, staff training, appropriate infrastructure and collaboration with the public and private sector.