Ecoturismo, conservação da natureza e Deep Ecology: Uma reflexão sobre o turismo como experiência de ampliação da consciência

Abstract

This work is a reflection on the relationship between thoughts and actions focused on nature conservation, conservation biology, the ethical and philosophical principles established by Deep Ecology and the principles and practices developed by ecotourism. It deals with the potential that the practice of ecotourism, permeated by the values of an ecocentric ethic, based on the notion that nature has an intrinsic value, is as an interpretation and education tool for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. The research was based on extensive literature on ecotourism, history of nature conservation and Deep Ecology. The main conclusions refer to the idea that ecotourism, as a segment focused on the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, biodiversity and sociodiversity, depends on a deep reflection in relation to the values and ethical principles that guide its practice. And only the focus on building the supply of experiences based on these principles can guide the demand for practices that deliver the desired benefits, with a focus on nature conservation.