Can eco-tourism ever really be eco? episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 14, 2025 · 14 MIN

Can eco-tourism ever really be eco?

from What in the World · host BBC World Service

Costa Rica is known as a world leader in eco-tourism. It has lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and protected wildlife and is famous for sustainable travel. It’s part of a growing market that promises to protect nature, support local economies and let people explore the world without harming it.But can tourism ever really be eco-friendly? Or is the very act of getting on a plane, staying at a resort or hotel, and taking selfies in pristine places fundamentally at odds with sustainability?Graihagh Jackson, a BBC journalist who also presents the Climate Question Podcast, takes us through what eco-tourism is and what issues tourism can cause for local communities. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Emily Horler Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

Costa Rica is known as a world leader in eco-tourism. It has lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and protected wildlife and is famous for sustainable travel. It’s part of a growing market that promises to protect nature, support local economies and let people explore the world without harming it.But can tourism ever really be eco-friendly? Or is the very act of getting on a plane, staying at a resort or hotel, and taking selfies in pristine places fundamentally at odds with sustainability?Graihagh Jackson, a BBC journalist who also presents the Climate Question Podcast, takes us through what eco-tourism is and what issues tourism can cause for local communities. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Emily Horler Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

NOW PLAYING

Can eco-tourism ever really be eco?

0:00 14:07

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of What in the World?

This episode is 14 minutes long.

When was this What in the World episode published?

This episode was published on August 14, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Costa Rica is known as a world leader in eco-tourism. It has lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and protected wildlife and is famous for sustainable travel. It’s part of a growing market that promises to protect nature, support local economies and...

Can I download this What in the World episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!