About The International Ecotourism Society TIES

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance the cause of ecotourism. Established in 1990, TIES has played a leading role in shaping the ecotourism landscape by offering guidelines, standards, training, technical support, and educational materials.

TIES’ extensive global network comprises ecotourism professionals and enthusiasts who are at the forefront of leveraging tourism as a valuable tool for conservation, safeguarding bio-cultural diversity, and fostering sustainable community development.

Through its membership services, industry outreach, and educational initiatives, TIES is dedicated to assisting organizations, communities, and individuals in promoting and adopting ecotourism principles.

With members spanning over 190 countries and territories, TIES represents diverse professional fields and industry segments, including academics, consultants, conservation professionals and organizations, governments, architects, tour operators, lodge owners and managers, general development experts, and ecotourists.

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is presently characterized as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (TIES, 2015). The term “education” encompasses both staff and guests.

The fundamental principles of ecotourism revolve around the integration of conservation, communities, and sustainable travel.

Those engaged in, participating in, and promoting ecotourism activities are encouraged to embrace the following principles

Minimize Impact:
Strive to reduce physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts on the environment and local communities.

Cultivate Awareness and Respect:
Foster environmental and cultural awareness and respect among both travelers and hosts.

Enhance Experiences:
Aim to provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts, ensuring mutual enjoyment and satisfaction.

Support Conservation:
Contribute directly to the financial support of conservation efforts, recognizing the pivotal role of such contributions.

Generate Local Benefits:
Create financial benefits for both local populations and private industries, thereby promoting economic sustainability.

Offer Interpretative Experiences:
Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors, promoting an understanding of host countries’ political, environmental, and social contexts.

Low-Impact Facilities:
Design, construct, and operate facilities with minimal impact on the environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

Respect Indigenous Rights:
Acknowledge and respect the rights and spiritual beliefs of Indigenous People in the community, fostering collaborative partnerships that empower them.