Final answer:
Ecotourism is a sustainable form of tourism that seeks to preserve and appreciate natural environments without causing damage. It is also known as 'alternative tourism,' which contrasts with mass or resort tourism. Proper management of ecotourism is crucial to protect the places tourists visit.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term ecotourism refers to a type of tourism that aims to be sustainable and beneficial to the conservation of natural environments and wildlife. The goal is to minimize environmental impact while supporting local economies and promoting awareness of biodiversity. Considering the options provided, the other name for this form of tourism, sometimes referred to as low impact or "soft" tourism, is alternative tourism.
Ecotourism needs careful management to prevent the destruction of the environments that draw in visitors. Initiatives like ecotourism can provide monetary benefits that help preserve ecosystems while offering employment for local communities. This form of tourism contrasts with mass tourism, which often leads to environmental degradation due to large crowds and excessive consumption of resources.
Mass tourism and resort tourism typically describe more conventional forms of tourism that may not prioritize environmental sustainability. Adventure travel might align with ecotourism when it focuses on responsible experiences in natural settings, but it is not a synonym. Interpretive tourism has similar goals in educating tourists about the environment, but again, it is not synonymous with ecotourism.