What is a benefit of ecotourism?

The correct answer highlights a fundamental aspect of ecotourism, which is its focus on promoting conservation and benefiting local communities. Ecotourism is designed to support sustainable practices that protect the environment while also providing economic opportunities for local populations. By emphasizing the conservation of natural resources, ecotourism helps maintain biodiversity and preserves ecosystems. Additionally, when local communities are involved in and benefit from tourism activities, it can lead to improved livelihoods, empowering residents through job creation and other economic benefits. This approach ensures that tourism is not just about travel experiences but also about fostering a responsible and sustainable relationship between visitors and the destinations they explore.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles of ecotourism. All-inclusive resorts often lead to environmental degradation and do not necessarily foster local economic growth. Encouragement of mass tourism typically results in overcrowding and strain on resources, which contradicts conservation efforts. Additionally, exclusivity to wealthy travelers is contrary to the inclusive nature that ecotourism promotes, which aims to provide accessible benefits to all stakeholders involved in the tourism experience.