Assessing dynamics of ecotourism using multi-methods analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: Ecotourism promotes sustainable and responsible travel and tours. It preserves nature and sustains and promotes the environment. The study focused on assessing the dynamics of ecotourism and its impacts on socio-economic development. Methodology: The study is based on a multi-method approach to exploring trends, themes, and influential contributions in ecotourism through a multi-method analysis. First, it applied a systematic literature review (SRL) based on predefined criteria. SRL helped to explore the themes and trends from the Literature, which were later verified through structured interview findings. The interviews were conducted with professionals following the snowball sampling technique to further explore the phenomenon of interest. Findings: The study found that community involvement, environmental conservation, and training and education in ecotourism discourse significantly impact social and economic development in the context of ecotourism. Furthermore, the study explored the critical challenges of ecotourism and proposed a model based on SLR and interview findings for ecotourism development. Originality: The findings provide valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand and promote sustainable tourism practices. The contextual and theoretical synthesis contributed to the body of knowledge and practices and demanded collaboration, cooperation, and coordination to enhance ecotourism.