Lower Kinabatangan Premier Competitive Sustainable Ecotourism Destination

Many famous tourism destinations of the eastern Himalayas have become severely polluted and environmentally vulnerable due to decades of unsustainable mass tourism practices. The recent popularization of the so called 'ecotourism destinations' as alternatives to these degraded sites have raised considerable debate among academia, planners and decision makers regarding community based development and environmental conservation. In this study, the newly initiated tourism ventures of a mountainous village named Silerigaon located in this region were evaluated as a case study through participatory appraisals among tourists and local residents to comprehend whether these ventures could truly be termed as ecotourism initiatives. Results derived from the analyses of the primary data collected through these appraisals showed that although the area possessed pristine natural environment and excellent scenic beauty, lack of proper civic amenities and physical infrastructure was hindering the development of sustainable tourism. Here, tourism activities had notably contributed to the increase in annual savings of community members but these financial gains had not equally transcended to all spheres of sustainable community based development. Till now, the activities have lacked the systematic long-term planning required for sustainable ecotourism and nature conservation. Accordingly, these could not be designated as ecotourism activities in their present orientation and capacity. In this regard, several necessary corrective measures to transform these activities into proper ecotourism ones have been suggested.

Ecotourism is the greener variant of tourism which advocates conservation of biodiversity and acts as a development strategy to build a self-sustainable system to help protect and further enhance the ecosystem through the income generated by ecotourism activities. There is a strong linkage between biodiversity conservation and ecotourism which has also been recognized by the UN and finds its place under the technical note on "Biodiversity and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development". But, are the stakeholders of the ecotourism destinations religiously following practices that will ensure biodiversity conservation at all times is something that needs continuous evaluation and validation. The authors have worked in the past on developing multi-stage methodology (ESA Framework, ESM Model and their validation) using Qualitative and Quantitative techniques and successfully developed Ecotourism Sustainability Assessment Method (ESAM) for such an appraisal. The present paper aims at devising a process which will show the applicability of ESM model in identifying the biodiversity related and other environmental factors, adversely impacting the ecotourism destination at present, or may impact it in times to come. In addition, it also offers the prescription to solve these issues and achieve the goal of ecotourism sustainability at the operational level. This proposed process initially will be defined with the help of a site-level case study of Mt. Kangchendzonga Base Camp Trek, Sikkim. Later, this would be extended to other ecologies and geographies so that in the future, a robust and useful model, applicable for most of the ecotourism destinations, can be developed.

Recognizing the importance of local community participation in responsible tourism and its benefits, this case study explores and analyses the local community participation and responsible tourism practices at Lower Kinabatangan, Sabah, a premier ecotourism destination from the stakeholders’ perspectives. It also describes the perception and attitudes towards tourism development including the key issues and challenges faced by the local communities. The case study adopted multiple methods involving focus-group interviews and survey questionnaires with the respective local communities residing in Lower Kinabatangan. Findings reveal that local communities recognized that Lower Kinabatangan has great potential to be developed as a sustainable ecotourism destination and to generate economic benefit. Despite this, there is limited participation of local communities in ecotourism development and responsible tourism practices among the local communities. The socio-economic demographic of the local community shows that only 42.4% of respondents have work related to tourism activities. Lack of capital and knowledge in tourism activities are the key barriers for local participation in ecotourism development. For Lower Kinabatangan to be a sustainable ecotourism destination, the participation and engagement of the local community and the practices of responsible tourism can no longer be ignored.

The role of information and communication technology (ICT) has become most essentials in tourism industry. However, use of ICT in Indian tourism industry is still in nascent state and as such will face difficulties to compete with their counterparts who have a sound ICT infrastructure. Indian tourism industries are facing problems with lack of various information, low resource availability, high transaction cost, and lack of infrastructure in ICT etc. Thus implementation of smart tourism practices with the help of ICT in eco-tourism destinations like Dooars are very challenging task as it is situated far away from the city and local community are not that much educated and aware for use of ICT in tourism activities. Therefore proper infrastructure and awareness are needed to overcome these challenges. ICT and smart tourism practices in Dooars region will help the tourist to identify better destination, accommodation, transportation, environment, local culture and products, community details, weather etc. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the potential of using ICT as smart tourism which may help the local community to get high-quality and equal opportunity for education; professional skill development, efficient governance and administration. This study is based on a literature review, secondary data analysis and field visit observations. The results of this study will help in understanding the need and future scope for innovative technology for the development of local people, which will be helpful for the growth of sustainable ecotourism in Dooars region of West Bengal, India.

Abstract. Ecotourism is recognised as a sustainable tourism paradigm that harmonises environmental preservation with economic and cultural advantages. This study examines the integration of advanced technologies, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and mobile applications, in evaluating and developing Alula's ecotourism opportunities. It employs a mixed-method approach to examine Alula's viability for ecotourism, including essential environmental, topographical, and infrastructural elements, as well as evaluating tourist preferences and stakeholder perspectives on technology adoption. The GIS and remote sensing research determined that Alula's mild temperature (22.5°C), low population density (2.44 individuals/km2), and slope changes (0–27%) render it an appropriate location for ecotourism. Moreover, the prominent visibility of picturesque locations, closeness to historical sites (0–15 km), and accessibility through road infrastructure augment its tourism potential. Water shortage (21 mm annual rainfall) and habitat fragmentation persist as challenges necessitating sustainable management techniques. The mobile application survey indicated a significant preference for real-time navigation, cultural heritage information, and sustainability education functionalities. Stakeholder interviews highlighted the significance of integrating smart technology to enhance visitor management, resource conservation, and tourist planning. This study combines GIS-based suitability analysis with mobile technology uptake to develop a comprehensive framework for smart ecotourism planning in ecotourism destinations. The findings emphasise the need for GIS and remote sensing for land-use optimisation, mobile apps for visitor interaction, and sustainable infrastructure policies. Tourism planners, environmentalists, and lawmakers might learn from the proposed paradigm on sustainable ecotourism and smart tourism in heritage-rich places.

This review paper assesses the role of tour operators towards sustaining ecotourism in Tanzania. The motive behind it is based on the argument that tour operators have an important role within the ecotourism multi-stakeholder. However, little has been documented on how best to engage them for sustainable ecotourism. Thus, this paper provides a concise overview of the relevant literature, highlighting existing knowledge and gaps for prospective future research. In addition to the literature review and methods, the result section of the paper is organized in such a way that it elaborates on key concepts and provides the setup and organization of tour operators. As a core part of the review, this study underlined four key roles of tour operators towards sustainable ecotourism: their involvement in planning, development, promotion, and implementation of ecotourism products. The study concluded that ecotourism supporting and regulating machinery must work closely and strategically with tour operators at the individual level or through their existing tourism associations in order to ensure that those four identified areas are effectively and efficiently carried out, not only to enhance their business but also to conserve and market the destination sites and contribute to the country’s revenue.   Key words: sustainable ecotourism, tour operators, Tanzania.

Mudal River, one of the potential ecotourism destinations in Indonesia, faces challenges in implementing sustainable management practices. Ecotourism management is a strategic approach that supports environmental conservation while providing good economic impacts for local communities. This study aims to identify ecotourism potential and evaluate management strategies in Mudal River, with a focus on environmental conservation and community involvement. This study used a mixed method, that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. Qualitative data were collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews with key informants, and literature studies related to ecotourism and environmental conservation. In addition, to support qualitative analysis, questionnaires were also distributed to tourists and local communities to evaluate tourism potential using the 4A concept (Attraction, Accessibility, Amenity, Ancillary). The results of the study indicate that local community involvement is very important in maintaining the environmental quality and biodiversity of Mudal River. The community is involved in various conservation activities, such as river clean-up programs, waste management, and environmental education. Based on data analysis, the lack of environmental awareness and education is a challenge in increasing active participation. Quantitative data analysis shows that the tourism potential in Mudal River is quite high in terms of natural attractions, accessibility, and supporting facilities, although there is still room for improvement, especially in terms of tourism services. Collaborative efforts between ecotourism managers and local communities have had a positive impact on the sustainability of ecotourism. This study concludes that ecotourism management in Mudal River based on environmental conservation and community participation can improve environmental quality and ecosystem sustainability. Recommendations for further development include improving environmental education, better waste and water management, and the need for stakeholder involvement in monitoring and sustainable development.

Despite efforts to improve employment outcomes for autistic individuals, internationally their employment rates remain low. There is a need to better understand the factors influencing successful employment for autistic adults in the labor market from the perspectives of multiple key stakeholders. This study represents the second in a series of papers conducted as part of an International Society for Autism Research policy brief aimed at improving employment outcomes for autistic individuals. A community consultation methodology using focus groups, forums, and interviews was applied with autistic individuals (n = 19), family members (n = 18), service providers (n = 21), employers (n = 11), researchers (n = 5), and advocacy group representatives (n = 5) in Australia, Sweden, and the United States, aiming to identify the factors perceived to determine gaining and maintaining employment for autistic individuals. Directed content analysis, guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), was conducted to investigate the key factors influencing employment outcomes for autistic individuals. Meaningful verbal concepts, or units of text with common themes, were also derived from the qualitative data and then linked and compared to the ICF Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Core-sets. Across countries, activity and participation and environmental factor categories of the ICF were the most associated with employment outcomes. Results suggest that removal of environmental barriers and enhancing environmental facilitators may assist to remediate ASD-related difficulties in the workplace. Autism Res 2019, © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: This study sought to understand the perspectives of autistic individuals and key stakeholders on factors influencing if autistic adults get and keep jobs. Across Australia, Sweden, and the United States, focus groups and interviews were conducted to understand international perspectives on what helps and hinders getting and keeping a job for autistic individuals. The environment, including supports, relationships, attitudes, and services, were perceived to be the most important for workplace success. Intervention targeting barriers and facilitators in the workplace environment may support autistic adults to be successful in the labor market.

This dissertation chiefly examines the difficulties and principles of establishing sustainable ecotourism based on local communities. Furthermore, mainly address management techniques of sustainability in Costa Rica, a country with a growing reputation as an ecotourist destination; meanwhile, throw light upon that effective management and setting up Green Certification Program could improve efficiency. It have been noted that the importance of establishing ecotourism in promoting sustainable maintenances, cultural preservation, and biodiversity conservation within indigenous communities. However, widely management methods to identify the potential and gauge the progress of ecotourism sites have yet to emerge, which is due to there have been few practical assessments of the status of ecotourism at specific locations. In addition, putting ecotourism theory into practice would be much more complicated than originally thought. As far as I am concerned, practical principles combining the most integrated approach would considerably bring mutual benefits between ecotourism and local communities, as appropriate management could help to achieve a balance between conservation and development. With regard to the overall research approach, a case study in Costa Rica will gain prominence in the establishment of sustainable ecotourism since previous research and experience would be highlighted and explored in depth. To some extent, it could be predicted that some gaps between theory and practice of ecotourism would be improved by promoting its sustainability based on communities, resources and economics. As a whole, establishment of benchmark for assessing sustainable ecotourism would be explored as a broader conservation strategy and offers suggestions for further improving the potential of ecotourism.

Sustainable ecotourism is a part of sustainable agricultural development. Sustainable Ecotourism Development contributes to biodiversity contribution, natural resource protection, and brings about sustainable livelihoods to local communities. Therefore, in this study, the author analyzes the weighting factors affect on tourists’ decision to choose Binh Chau Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve (BCPBNR). The research model includes one dependent variable (destination choice decision) and five independent variables. Primary data were collected through direct interview survey method and Google Form. Using Likert scale with 5 lowest levels from (1) to highest (5) to record the evaluation of tourists who have traveled to Binh Chau Phuoc Buu. The number of questionnaires that met the requirements for analysis included 235. Data were used in Excel software and analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software. The results of the regression equation between the factors impacting the choice of destination and the decision to choose the destination are Quality of service at the destination (0.254), Means of transport to the destination (0.232), Experience of the destination (0.170), Resources at the destination (0.119) and Tourism motivation (0.092). Each factor has a positive influence on tourists’ decision to choose an ecotourism destination. This shows that the quality of the nature reserve destination is the most important factor. Tourism motivation is the factor with the lowest impact. The research also proposes some solutions to attract tourists to Binh Chau Phuoc Buu. Those are maintaining and improving the quality of tourism services and constantly improving and enhancing the quality of transport to the tourist destination and in the tourist area. At the same time, it is needed to maintain and preserve the wild, natural beauty of the BCPBNR and the integrity of the natural landscapes. To involve the participation of local residents in informing and communicating activities in Binh Chau Phuoc Buu is an important solution to abstract visitors to this destination.

This study examines the potential of tourist attractions in Ciliwung Muara Bersama as an ecotourism destination in Jakarta. This location provides natural beauty and preserved Betawi cultural elements, which constitute potential for development into an attractive and sustainable ecotourism destination. However, the potential inherent in Muara Ciliwung has not been developed into ecotourism attractions to help preserve the environment and contribute to the well-being of the local community. The research method involves collecting primary and secondary data through observation and interviews. Secondary data is obtained from relevant literature studies. A qualitative descriptive approach is used to analyze the data. The research findings indicate that Ciliwung Muara Bersama has attractive tourism potential, including pristine natural beauty, the flow of the Ciliwung River, and Betawi culture. Development efforts with ecotourism principles are necessary to optimize this potential, which includes increasing active community involvement, environmental conservation, and improving supporting facilities as key factors for the success of ecotourism development. This research emphasizes that the development of Ciliwung Muara Bersama as an ecotourism destination requires a holistic approach that considers environmental, cultural, and economic aspects. By addressing the existing challenges, the potential of this destination can be optimally realized, providing benefits for the environment, local communities, and visiting tourists.

This paper is directed to study the effect of local community participation and visitors’ satisfaction on ecotourism sustainability at Badung regency of Bali province, Indonesia. Two important aspects regarding ecotourism sustainability had been studied, i.e. (a) economic benefits for local people and (b) tourists’ satisfaction. Applying variance-based structural equation modeling, data were collected in July 2015 from local community leaders of Kiadan Village at Badung regency and tourists whom visited this village, were analysed. Four latent variables, namely (a) community participation, (b) economic benefits, (c) tourists’ satisfaction, and (d) ecotourism sustainability, were used to build structural model. The results showed sustainability of Kiadan’s ecotourism was significantly affected by local community participation and visitors’ satisfaction although community participation’s effect slightly greater than tourists’ satisfaction with path values for participation and satisfaction as much as 0.651 and 0.627, respectively.

This study examines the impact of environmental awareness, service quality, destination attractiveness, visitor satisfaction, and behavioral intention on the sustainability of marine ecotourism in the South Coast of West Java. A quantitative approach was employed, using structured questionnaires distributed to 312 tourists at various marine ecotourism sites. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results revealed significant relationships between environmental awareness, service quality, and destination attractiveness with visitor satisfaction and behavioral intention, which, in turn, positively affected the sustainability of marine ecotourism. The study highlights the critical role of fostering environmental awareness and improving service quality and destination appeal in promoting sustainable tourism practices. These findings offer practical recommendations for stakeholders, including policymakers and tourism operators, aiming to enhance the sustainability of marine ecotourism in the region.

ABSTRACTThis research focuses on word-of-mouth behavior as a form of customer influencer behavior, which represents an important facet of customer engagement. While recent research suggests positive direct effects of engagement on loyalty and customers’ price perceptions, this research contributes to the literature by examining customers’ affective attitude toward the destination, extending previous research approaches. The study was conducted at the WWF-funded visitor center in a national forest park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Results indicate that engaged customers form more positive attitudes, resulting in increased future loyalty and positive price perceptions, empirically supporting various conceptual approaches. Furthermore, the results show that purely cognitive approaches are inadequate for understanding customers’ price perceptions. This is of importance for sustainable services or ecotourism destinations, as customers’ attitudes and willingness-to-pay judgments are influenced by, among other things, environmental beliefs and an interest in ecotourism.

Tourism is the world's fastest-growing sector. In the recent era, ecotourism has boosted the tourism sector in Bangladesh as well as the world. This study explores the potential of sustainable ecotourism in Bangladesh with a SWOT analysis method. This research mainly identifies eight key ecotourism destinations, including Cox’s Bazar, the Sundarbans, Saint Martin Island, Kuakata Sea Beach, Madhupur Sal Forest, Sitakundo Eco-Park, Sajek Valley, and Hakaluki Haor, and applies SWOT analysis. By using the SWOT analysis research method, the researcher finds out strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The ecological, economic, and social benefits of ecotourism are the strength of these destinations. On the other hand, environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure, and unregulated tourism are challenges these destinations face. There are also opportunities and threats like domestic & foreign income and over tourism & natural disasters. This study provides specific recommendations that are effective for conserving the eco-environment in tourism destinations in Bangladesh as well as the world. This study mainly helps the authority bodies that are responsible for tourism planning and policy making and preserving tourism over the world, including UNWTO, UN, ATAB, WTTC, IATA, and PATA, as well as Bangladesh, including BPC, BTB, and TOAB.