Conceptual Framework of Ecotourism
Ecotourism is defined as a
“purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the culture and natural
history of the environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the
ecosystem, while producing economic opportunities that make the conservation of
natural resources beneficial to local people” (McCormick, 1994). Based on this definition, the conceptual
framework was formulated. The operationalization of the framework included
an assessment procedure, the ecotourism standards and its corresponding
management guidelines. and a communication plan. These tools were guided by the
principles presented by Jeffries (1997) on biodiversity and conservation,
Kersten (1997) on Community Based Ecotourism and Community Building, Kusler
(1991) on Strengthening Resource Conservation through Ecotourism, and McCormick
(1994) on how ecotourism can save a rainforest. Furthermore, the experiences gained by Regis
et al. (2000) from the Ecotourism project for the two municipalities of
Sorsogon reinforced the management guidelines put together based on the
Philippine situation.