Biodivervity in Bulgaria :: BD and tourism

In Bulgaria the concern for the preservation of natural and cultural heritage and the national customs and traditions from the one hand, and from the other- the aim to develop the local communities and tourism, resulted in the elaboration of “National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan”.

The definition upon which the ministries of environment and water; economy; and agriculture as the main initiators of Strategy elaboration, agreed states: “ecotourism is travel to relatively undamaged natural areas, aimed at providing visitors with opportunities to view and enjoy nature and all accompanying cultural attractions, while at the same time encouraging their preservation and allowing the lowest possible impact. Ecotourism is also a form of small and medium enterprise development, which ensures the social and economic vitality of the local population, and the just allocation of responsibilities and benefits. Ecotourism comprises important elements of nature protection, conservation education, interpretation of the natural and cultural heritage, and it complies with all forms of sustainable tourism.”