Help build a "definitive" list of bullet points pertaining to the positive and negative impacts of tourism on host destinations by joining the discussion below or by directly editing this page. Spirited debate is welcome in the discussion forum below!

Positive impacts of tourism:-

"Sustainable" or "responsible" tourism development focuses on the "triple bottom line". Responsible developers pursue the economic benefits of tourism while maximising the positive impacts on the environment and the host society and culture upon which the industry is based.

Economic

• Foreign exchange
  
• Tax revenues
• Job opportunities

Environmental

• Puts an economic value on "unspoiled" natural resources
• Encourages the establishment of national parks and protected areas

Sociocultural

• Puts an economic value on traditional arts, crafts, and cultural practices
• Encourages the preservation of historical sites and heritage buildings
  
• Fosters within the host society tolerance and acceptance of different cultures
  

Negative impacts of tourism:-

Ironically, the value of the very environmental and sociocultural assets that attract travellers can erode over time. This is particularly the case where tourism development is unregulated, blinkered by volume growth, and focused only on short-term economic benefits. This is "unsustainable" and "irresponsible" and completely unacceptable in the 21st century.