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Can eco-tourism ever really be eco?

Eco-tourism says it protects nature and supports local economies.

Costa Rica is known as a world leader in eco-tourism. It has lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and protected wildlife and is famous for sustainable travel.

It’s part of a growing market that promises to protect nature, support local economies and let people explore the world without harming it.

But can tourism ever really be eco-friendly? Or is the very act of getting on a plane, staying at a resort or hotel, and taking selfies in pristine places fundamentally at odds with sustainability?

Graihagh Jackson, a ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ journalist who also presents the Climate Question Podcast, takes us through what eco-tourism is and what issues tourism can cause for local communities.

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Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Emily Horler
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

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14 minutes

Last on

Fri 15 Aug 2025 02:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Thu 14 Aug 2025 17:50GMT
  • Fri 15 Aug 2025 02:50GMT

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