Chapter 4: Understanding How Social Entrepreneurship Fit into The Eco-Tourism Discourse

Abstract

This chapter attempts to understand the way of social entrepreneurship can fit into eco-tourism discourse. The impact of social entrepreneurship in eco-tourism has changed the local community economy and society. Different contexts of eco-tourism account for how they embrace these channels to society. The effectiveness of social entrepreneurship matters more for eco-tourism sectors when the sustainability and development of society are low. With limited opportunities in local communities, eco-tourism is becoming a viable option for a social solution. An understanding of this chapter guiding this study focuses on the concept of eco-tourism, in terms of local community development (income generation and wellbeing) and the environment. Social and environmental are major types of social entrepreneurship in eco-tourism that deal with social complexities and contribute to job creation and economic growth. The foremost purpose of this chapter is to appraise a strategy for eco-tourism development as a platform for the sustainable local community, at the same time promoting environmental sustainability. This chapter mainly considers current opportunities for social entrepreneurship practices in eco-tourism, where tourism is one of the fastest expanding sectors, which has been leaving positive impacts on sustainable development.