Final answer:
A significant portion of tourism revenue should be allocated to local development to ensure environmental conservation and provide economic benefits to local communities, reduce cultural disparities, and promote sustainable growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
A reasonable part of income from tourism should indeed be used for local development of the related geographic areas because tourism income can represent a significant portion of a region's economy. When tourism is poorly managed, there can be negative impacts such as environmental damage and minimal economic benefits to local populations due to multiplier leakage, where the profits are not retained locally but go back to foreign owners. However, when managed well, such as through ecotourism, tourism can promote environmental conservation and provide much-needed employment and revenue to local communities. In regions like the Caribbean Basin, where poverty is widespread, the influx of tourism dollars is essential. Though much of the revenue may end up with international corporations or local elites, the job creation and associated income are critical for helping to lift people out of poverty and should, therefore, be funneled into local development projects, such as improving schools, roads, and medical facilities.
In contrast, locations like Yosemite National Park show how tourism can simultaneously protect natural resources and stimulate the local economy without causing significant harm. Thus, it underscores the necessity of careful management to ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximized for local communities and environments. This careful balancing act can help reduce cultural disparities, support local economies, and preserve the environment for future generation.