The Ecotourism‐Extraction Nexus: Balancing Conservation, Resource Use, and Community Well‐Being

With growing concerns over resource depletion by large industries, ecotourism has emerged as a sustainable alternative to generate income while minimizing environmental impact. Promoted as a way to protect ecosystems, respect local communities, and reduce resource use, ecotourism still faces significant challenges. This chapter traces the evolution of ecotourism, critically examines its role in resource extraction, and explores whether it mitigates or exacerbates exploitation. Ethical considerations are also discussed, highlighting the complexities of balancing sustainability with economic and social priorities.