An offshoot of the environmental movement of the 1970s, ecotourism has come into its own over the past two decades. Thanks to an increasing awareness of environmental issues such as climate change, combined with a high demand among European and North American travelers for unspoiled locations, authentic cultural experiences, and recreational challenges, ecotourism is growing at a rate of 20 percent annually, making it the fastest-growing sector in the tourist industry. The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and the welfare of local people." The International Union for Conservation of Nature characterizes ecotourism as economically sustainable, ecologically sensitive, and culturally acceptable. Closely related is the concept of sustainable tourism identified in Our Common Future, the Brundtland Commission's report to the 1987 World Commission on Environment and Development: development that "meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

Ecotourism's principles clearly distinguish it from conventional mass tourism. Instead of classic tourist meccas, ecotourism seeks out remote locations with strict environmental protections, and operates on a small scale. Tourists, businesses, and local residents are encouraged to minimize their impact on environment by recycling materials, conserving energy and water, safely treating human waste and properly disposing of garbage, using alternative energy, and building in a manner that fits in with natural surroundings. The financial benefits from ecotourism are passed on to the community through conservation projects, employment, partnerships, and local participation in the development and management of local resources. Synonymous with "green" tourism, ecotourism promotes cultural sensitivity and respect for traditions and customs in order to avoid the kind of exploitation that has turned tribal ceremonies into side shows and relics into souvenirs. Last but not the least, ecotourism plays a political role in its support of human rights and democracy.

The International Ecotourism Society defined Ecotourism as __________.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below

responsible travel to natural areas

The correct answer is Option 3: responsible travel to natural areas.

The passage states that the International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and the welfare of local people." This definition emphasizes the importance of ecotourism being environmentally and socially responsible.

The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the definition of ecotourism. Travel to unexplored places is not necessarily ecotourism, as it could still have a negative impact on the environment. Travel to grow the economy of a place is not the primary goal of ecotourism, although it can have a positive economic impact on local communities. Travel to view local people is not ecotourism, as it could lead to exploitation of local cultures and traditions.