The application of a 'sustainable livelihoods framework' is essential to developing pro-poor approaches. The distribution of livelihood impacts has to be considered. The poor are far from being a homogenous group. The positive and negative impacts of tourism will inevitably be distributed unevenly among poor groups, reflecting different patterns of assets, activities, opportunities and choices. The most substantial benefits, particularly jobs, may be concentrated among few.
Net benefits are likely to be smallest, or negative, for the poorest.
A first step is to recognise that enhancing the poverty impacts of tourism is different from commercial, environmental, or ethical concerns. PPT can be incorporated as an additional objective, but this requires pro-active and strategic intervention. These trade-offs need to be addressed. Reducing competition for natural resources, minimising trade-offs with other livelihood activities, using tourism to create physical infrastructure that benefits the poor and addressing cultural disruption will often be particularly important. Work through partnerships, including business and tourists National and local governments, private enterprises, industry associations, NGOs, community organisations, consumers, and donors all have a role to play.