Modern Economics & Management Forum

This paper aims to study how ecotourism can promote the economic development in less developed areas. As a form of tourism based on natural resources, ecotourism is in line with the concept of sustainable development. Through the rational development and utilization of natural resources, a win-win situation between economic development and environmental protection is achieved. This paper first introduces the theory of sustainable development and analyzes the role of ecotourism in it. Subsequently, the direct and indirect effects of ecotourism on the economy of less developed areas, as well as the long-term benefits, including increased employment opportunities, improved infrastructure, improved social services, and balanced development of ecological protection and economy, are explored.