Restorative Tourism: Benefits for Tourism and Hospitality Sectors

Biodiversity loss poses a threat to the hospitality and tourism industry, as thriving natural environments are a key attraction for tourists. Generating $36 billion per year from coral reefs alone, the global tourism sector is dependent—like all living organisms—on healthy ecosystems. At the same time, mass tourism is a threat to biodiversity and ecosystems. A harmonious relationship between local communities and businesses that provide support services is needed to ensure the local environment is preserved while benefiting local communities economically and socially. Local environments including mountains, jungles, and other high-biodiversity areas are often the mainstay of tourism and will inevitably be affected when tourism sites are developed.