Final answer:
Tourism is a significant source of income, especially in areas that lack other economic activities. However, it can cause problems such as environmental damage and economic leakage when not managed properly. Ecotourism is one way to sustainably leverage tourism for economic benefit. Tourism can indeed be a source of income for destinations, making the correct answer A. True.
Step-by-step explanation:
The impact of tourism is multifaceted, providing job opportunities and revenue in places where alternative economic activities may be limited. This is particularly true in areas with natural beauty and recreational potential, which draw visitors and their spending power. For example, remote locations like mountainous regions or scenic coastlines can significantly benefit from tourist dollars.
However, when tourism is poorly managed, it can lead to multiplier leakage, where much of the income generated does not stay local but instead benefits outside interests. This can happen in developing countries where outside corporations own large parts of the tourist industry, such as hotels and cruise lines. Although tourism does create jobs, these are often low-paying and do not necessarily lead to long-term economic development. Ecotourism is a branch of tourism that aims to minimize environmental damage and can sometimes promote conservation efforts. Destinations like Yosemite National Park serve as excellent examples of ecotourism, attracting millions of visitors while also protecting natural resources. Yet, the contrast is stark in other places such as the Caribbean, where the luxury tourism sector can overshadow local needs and create socio-economic disparities. In conclusion, tourism is a complex issue with the potential for both positive and negative impacts on local economies, environments, and societies. When managed well, it can provide valuable income and employment opportunities. When managed poorly, it can exploit local resources without providing significant benefits to the local population.