Use of English

Sustainable Tourism

Tourism can bring jobs, investment and cultural exchange, but these benefits may come at a cost if destinations are not managed responsibly. In recent years, the idea of sustainable tourism has moved from being a niche concern to a (0) CENTRAL issue for governments, businesses and travellers alike. At its heart is the belief that tourism should (1) .......... local communities rather than exploit them, and that natural environments should be protected instead of being gradually worn (2) .......... by uncontrolled development. For this reason, many experts argue that tourists should think carefully about the choices they make. Even seemingly minor decisions, such as where to stay or how to travel, can have a significant (3) .......... on a region’s economy and ecology. Hotels that employ local staff and source food nearby, for example, are more likely to (4) .......... a positive contribution to the area. Sustainable tourism also depends on visitors showing respect for local customs. In some places, behaviour that seems harmless to outsiders may be deeply (5) .......... to residents. Learning a few basic norms in advance can therefore help to (6) .......... misunderstandings. Ultimately, if tourism is to remain a force for good, it must be based not only on profit, but also on a long-term (7) .......... to preserving places and cultures. Without such an approach, many destinations may lose the very qualities that (8) .......... them attractive in the first place.