Other distinctive qualities of ecotourism are educational features, which specialized touroperators for small groups generally, but not exclusively, organize. Service provider partnersat the destinations tend to be small locally owned businesses. Also, ecotourism minimizesnegative impacts upon the natural and socio-cultural environment, supports the maintenanceof natural areas that are used as ecotourism attractions by generating economic benefits forhost communities. It helps the organizations and authorities to manage the natural areas withconservation purposes, providing alternative employment and income opportunities for localcommunities while increasing awareness towards the conservation of natural and culturalassets, both among locals and tourists. (UNWTO 2002).