After reading this sustainability article, there are two ways of looking at the word sustainability and it’s usage with tourism. Does sustainable tourism mean that the businesses within the industry sustain themselves over time, regardless of the impact made on the community? Or does sustainable tourism mean that the environment is used respectfully and resourcefully so that there is minimal impact made by tourism?
I believe that the best way to use sustainable tourism to it’s highest potential is a mixture of the two. Drawing customers/tourists to a location is difficult if the area is soley based on the environment. There has to be a business aspect to bring potential clients into the area. However, going completely overboard with retail and buildings in an area that it’s not needed is irresponsible. In each different location there is a happy medium that should be met.