Tourism And Biodiversity: Achieving Common Goals Towards Sustainability
UN Tourism
Download
Abstract: This UNWTO publication explores the interdependence between tourism and biodiversity, highlighting how tourism can support biodiversity conservation while relying on it as a primary attraction. It frames biodiversity as foundational to tourism economies, particularly in biodiversity-rich hotspots such as coastal areas, mountains, and protected zones. The report outlines both positive and negative tourism impacts?ranging from ecosystem degradation due to unregulated development to conservation financing through sustainable tourism models. Global frameworks like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) are discussed, alongside best practices from the private sector, governments, and NGOs. The guide calls for integration of biodiversity into tourism planning, capacity building, and ecosystem valuation. It also links tourism with poverty alleviation, presenting biodiversity-centered tourism as a driver for inclusive green growth.