Yes, there is a significant risk that excessive mass tourism could harm local communities and environments. When destinations become overrun with tourists beyond their carrying capacity, it puts immense pressure on natural resources such as water supply or wildlife habitats. Local cultures may also face erosion due to homogenization caused by catering solely to tourist preferences.
Furthermore, mass tourism often leads to issues like overcrowding at popular sites leading to degradation of historical monuments or natural wonders. The influx of visitors can strain infrastructure like roads or sewage systems not designed for such high volumes which impacts the quality of life for residents.
To mitigate these risks associated with mass tourism harming local communities and environments requires careful planning by authorities including managing visitor numbers through permits or quotas at sensitive sites ensuring development is sustainable without compromising cultural heritage or ecological integrity.