Ecotourism, Stated Preferences, a Paradox between Environmental Awareness and Environmental Actions: The Case of Monteverde, Costa Rica

Abstract

This study aims to assess the relation between the so called “Ecotourism” behavior and Willingness-To-Pay (WTP) in order to compensate on site for their carbon foot print, plus their familiarity with common environmental terms, in the Monteverde Region of Costa Rica. A Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was decided upon as the best way to determine the willingness to pay (WTP). While the scope of this study is limited by the low season for tourism, the study finds a paradox between the behaviors of the self-called ecotourist suggesting that the term is more related to the location of the area visited, rather than any attempt by the tourist to alter their travel behavior. That could have a negative impact on the very wildlife where the park is trying to protect.