ESG Principles And Ecotourism: Environmental Sustainability, Social Responsibility, And Governance In Ecotourism
- IJLLR Journal
- May 24
- 1 min read
Lalitha M, Research Scholar, Alliance School of Law, Alliance University
Dr. Showkat Ahmad Wani, Associate Professor, Alliance School of Law, Alliance University
ABSTRACT
Ecotourism has emerged as a critical instrument for achieving sustainable development, particularly in ecologically sensitive and biodiversity-rich regions. Simultaneously, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have evolved from corporate accountability metrics into a broader normative framework influencing public policy, regulatory governance, and judicial reasoning. This article undertakes an in-depth legal and policy analysis of the convergence between ESG principles and ecotourism governance. It examines how environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance accountability are operationalized through constitutional mandates, statutory regimes, international legal instruments, and judicial interventions. Using doctrinal and comparative methodology, the paper analyses Indian environmental jurisprudence alongside comparative international case law from the United Kingdom, the European Union, the International Court of Justice, and the World Trade Organization. The study further integrates empirical ESG indicators and reporting models relevant to tourism and conservation sectors. It argues that ESG principles provide a coherent and enforceable framework for strengthening ecotourism governance, balancing conservation imperatives with socio-economic development, and ensuring institutional transparency. The article concludes with comprehensive policy and regulatory recommendations aimed at aligning ecotourism practices with ESG benchmarks in India and comparable jurisdictions.
Keywords: ESG Principles, Ecotourism, Environmental Sustainability, Social Responsibility, Governance, Comparative Environmental Law, Sustainable Development.
