Provides a long-run justification for the protection, preservation and enhancement of natural and built resources, including the protection of biodiversity
Provides access to internationally recognized quality standards for environmental resources
Stimulates improvements to the quality of the physical environment available to residents
Provides an economic justification and means for the regeneration of degraded/disused heritage environments based
Creates economic value/generates markets for natural or built environments that otherwise may have no direct economic contribution to resident populations
Generates revenue which may be used for conservation goals
Provides employment and opportunities for small businesses. Stimulates compatible new economic activity to supply tourism businesses
Raises the standard of living for resident populations, especially if tourism generates otherwise unobtainable foreign currency and tax revenues
Underpins the provision of restaurants, sport recreation facilities, local transport and generally improves the quality of life for residents
Supports and helps to fund local music, theatre, the arts, folk traditions, festivals and events
Provides a market for local crafts and manufacturing
Reinforces and focuses local identifies and the traditions of particular places. Helps to sustain and focus pride of place
Provides a medium for demonstrating and communicating environmental appreciation and values to both visitors and residents