Sustainable development of forest parks for active recreation: A balance between nature conservation and physical education

Abstract

The study aims to comprehensively assess the negative impacts of various activities carried out by visitors to natural areas, including forest parks, on ecosystems. The research methodology included an analysis of forest park ecosystems Gotova-Dangel and Logara forest parks, monitoring ecosystem changes, which provided objective data on the impact of human activity. The study developed recommendations aimed at minimising the negative effects of these activities on the environment. The main results of the study demonstrated that walking leads to soil compaction, which in turn hurts water circulation and aeration of soil layers. This phenomenon can also cause damage to rare species of plants and trees that are vulnerable to changes in their natural environment. In addition, cycling causes soil erosion, which leads to the destruction of vegetation, which in turn negatively affects the environmental sustainability of the region. This can create conditions for the degradation of natural ecosystems and a decrease in biodiversity. Camping causes pollution of the area, including dumping garbage and other waste, which leads to a decrease in the number of animals living in forest environments, with serious consequences for the ecological balance and conservation of wildlife. The findings highlight the need to introduce clearly defined trails for pedestrian traffic, create specialised bicycle routes, and develop environmentally responsible camping practices. This will significantly reduce the negative impact on the forest ecosystem. The research is relevant for the conservation of biodiversity as well as for maintaining the ecological balance in forest parks, which is critical for the sustainable development of natural resources and the preservation of the environment for future generations