Ecotourism Development Research Articles

Development of cultural spatial concepts for the preservation of local culture and the environment in the ecotourism area of Tamansari Village

Areas designated as strategic tourism areas are those where tourism serves as the primary industry or has the potential to do so, as well as has a significant impact on one or more factors, such as the development of the economy, society, and culture, as well as the preservation of natural resources, the ability of the environment to support human habitation, and defense and security, through putting into practice the idea of ecotourism development, which is responsible tourism to natural areas that promote environmental preservation and enhances the well-being of locals. With a focus on local wisdom and a microcosm of Sundanese culture connected to Tamansari Village, the concept plan for developing the village's tourism areas combines ecotourism and local wisdom.

The Functions of Myth in Mangrove Ecotourism Development in Ibu Kota Nusantara, Indonesia

The mangrove area in Mentawir Village has the potential to be developed into an ecotourism site in Nusantara Capital City (Ibu Kota Nusantara or "IKN"), Indonesia. Apart from the mangrove conservation area, some myths add to the tourist attraction of IKN. Various myths continue to live and develop in the lives of the Paser indigenous people in Mentawir Village (Sepaku District, East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia). The functionalization of the myth is expected to support mangrove ecotourism. So, how can existing myths affect the use of mangroves to support the development of mangrove ecotourism in IKN? Ethnographic data collection conducted through participatory observation and in-depth interviews can reveal the existence of myths that affect the use of mangroves in people's lives. The results showed that three myths developed in Mentawir Village: the myth of yellow mangroves (lemit mangroves/bakau lemit), the myth of the Mentawir River (Sungai Mentawir), and the mystery myth of the peace stone (misteri batu perdamaian). Using the Malinowski cultural functionalization approach, it can be seen that these myths can support the development of mangrove-based ecotourism and creative economy as IKN tourist attractions that can support community welfare.

Effect of Destination Image on Tourist Satisfaction and Destination Loyalty: A Study of Ecotourism Destinations in Uganda

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of destination image on tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty, a study of ecotourism destinations in Uganda. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study emphasized that a positive destination image significantly influences tourist satisfaction, indicating that perceptions of an ecotourism destination directly impact visitors' overall experience and contentment. Additionally, the research highlighted that tourist satisfaction is a crucial driver of destination loyalty, suggesting that when tourists are satisfied with their experience, they are more likely to return to the destination or recommend it to others. Moreover, the study underscored the importance of promoting ecotourism destinations accurately to align tourists' expectations with the reality of the experience, thereby enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social exchange theory, theory of planned behavior and self-determination theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing effect of destination image on tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty, a study of ecotourism destinations in Uganda. From a practical perspective, the study offers actionable recommendations for destination management organizations (DMOs), tourism operators, and other stakeholders involved in ecotourism development. The findings have implications for policymaking aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development and conservation efforts in ecotourism destinations.

Ethnoecological Study of Local Community Food in Supporting the Development of Culinary Ecotourism in the Sekotong Region, West Lombok

Combining the concept of ecotourism with culinary delights based on local food resources in coastal communities in West Lombok district is one form of appropriate development strategy that will make the West Lombok district region have its own development characteristics leading to sustainable tourism and tourism support which will become the concept of future tourism development. This research examines in more depth the ethnoecological aspects of coastal communities, especially regarding local food. Through this research, data will be obtained regarding the diversity of local food types in coastal communities, mapping community wisdom in processing and utilizing local food. Local community interactions and perceptions of local food diversity. The type of research used is descriptive exploratory with research techniques in the form of exploration. The sampling techniques used in the research were purpose sampling and snowball sampling. Research data collection uses several techniques, including random observation to obtain qualitative and quantitative data on local food typical of the island of Lombok, which uses an open questionnaire targeting local communities according to predetermined criteria. The research results show that coastal communities have more food resources originating from marine resources, both fish and non-fish, these food resources are still protected because most people still harvest the results using simple equipment. There are around 11 types of processed food as a family practice. Tuna fish has the highest ICS (Index of Cultural Significance) value while mackerel fish has the highest variety of uses. Shrimp is the fish group that has the highest ICS value, while cassava leaves have the highest ICS value for the vegetable group. The local wisdom of the community which originates from their ancestors in order to protect their environmental resources is still maintained today.

Preparation of Ecotourism Development Strategy in Sungai Langka Village, Gedong Tataan District, Pesawaran, Lampung Province

Tourism is all activities related to tourism and is multidimensional and multidisciplinary in nature which emerges as a manifestation of the needs of each person and country as well as interactions between tourists and local communities, fellow tourists, local governments and entrepreneurs. Factors that influence ecotourism development strategies come from within and outside the tourist attraction with a focus on efforts to encourage sustainable tourism. Tourism village planning should also be followed by the development of human resources and tourism supporting facilities while still paying attention to environmental elements. One of the areas in Lampung Province that is developing regional potential in the tourism sector is Pesawaran regency. Sungai Langka village is one of the villages with potential for ecotourism in Pesawaran district. This research aims to analyze ecotourism development strategies in Sungai Langka Pesawaran Village, Lampung. The research method uses SWOT analysis to determine the internal and external factors of tourist villages with the QSPM matrix to determine the development priority scale. Data collection was carried out through direct observation and distributing questionnaires to village officials, village communities, visitors and local government agencies. The results of this research are regarding the form of ecotourism development strategy that will be used to increase the role of tourism in Gedong Tataan.

STRATEGI AKSELERASI DESTINASI EKOWISATA POTRE KONING DI DESA SUMBERCANTING, BONDOWOSO

This article is about the strategy to accelerate the development of the Potre Koning ecotourism destination in Sumbercanting Village, Wringin District, Bondowoso Regency which has the potential for attractive natural scenery, namely hills, teak and kedawung trees, niches in the form of paddy fields dividing the hills, siring terrace cultivation on the hillsides, waterfall, and Mustajab cave. The preparation stage including initial observation activities, mapping problems in the field, and drafting mentoring activities. Initial observations were carried out to understand the complexity and dynamics that occurred in the field. The data from initial observations was classified based on various problems, obstacles, and shortcomings faced by the Potre Koning ecotourism destination managers. In developing Potre Koning ecotourism, the management needs to pay attention to (1) management by Pokdarwis in managing the ecotourism destination; (2) management of a variety of attractions that can be developed to attract tourists; (3) spatial planning, comfort and ecotourism infrastructure, (4) promotion and marketing through conventional mass media, electronics and social media; (5) security of the ecotourism destination location, and (6) sustainability of the Potre Koning ecotourism destination. Based on the results of service in the field, it was known that the development management factor by Pokdarwis and the role of the village government, Muspika (District Head, Danramil, Kapolsek) were key factors in the success of destination development. Potre Koning ecotourism's development was expected to positively impact local economic growth in Sumbercanting Village, increasing the number of tourists, preserving ecotourism objects, and maximum community participation.

Spatial Differentiation of Ecotourist Perceptions Based on the Random Forest Model: The Case of the Gansu Section of the Yellow River Basin

Ecotourism is vital for coordinating regional ecological protection with socio-economic development. The Gansu section of the Yellow River Basin is a typical ecologically fragile area in China, and it holds a distinctive position in ecological protection and high-quality development. This study explores spatial differentiation in ecotourist perceptions and their distinct effects on ecotourist satisfaction, revisitation, and recommendation. It uses four cities (Gannan, Linxia, Lanzhou, and Baiyin) in the Gansu section of the Yellow River (mainstream) as examples, employing a questionnaire survey to collect ecotourists’ perception data and applying a random forest model and one-way ANOVA for analysis. It was found that: (1) rich ecotourism potential exists in the Gansu section of the Yellow River Basin as an ecologically fragile area; (2) there is spatial differentiation in ecotourist perceptions, and among the four regions, Baiyin stands out for its nature and atmosphere perception, and Lanzhou excels in accessibility and service perception; (3) spatial disparities exist in the influencing factors of ecotourist satisfaction, revisitation, and recommendation. Ecotourists in districts with unique natural resources, such as Gannan and Baiyin, prioritize nature perception, whereas districts with abundant natural resources and an established foundation for ecotourism development, such as Linxia and Lanzhou, emphasize service and atmosphere perception. This study constructs a new research framework to explore spatial variations in ecotourists’ perceptions, assisting ecotourism destinations to meet the needs of ecotourists from the supply side, and presents distinctive strategies and recommendations for the development of ecotourism in similar ecologically fragile areas.

Coordinated development of island ecotourism: A comprehensive evaluation of Amami-Oshima Island

Island tourism has garnered growing attention especially with the rapid expansion of ecotourism in island destinations. While past research has explored the integrated development of island tourism, environment, and economy, there exists a demand for a more comprehensive exploration that incorporates social aspects. This study aimed to establish a comprehensive evaluation index system for island ecotourism using Amami-Oshima Island as an example. It uses four tourism subtypes, including environment, economic, social, and other-sector tourism, within the framework for island ecotourism. We employed a Coupling Coordination Degree Model and a Grey Verhulst model, utilizing data from Amami-Oshima Island from 2010 to 2021 as a basis for quantitative analysis of the current status of island ecotourism coupling coordination development and for making predictions. The research outcomes reveal the following: (1) Between 2010 and 2021, Amami-Oshima Island exhibited an overall upward trajectory in the comprehensive development of ecotourism. The environment-tourism subsystem demonstrated robust performance, the social-tourism subsystem displayed fluctuating growth, and the economic and the other-sector tourism dimensions generally progressed in tandem. (2) The coupling degree and coordination level of Amami-Oshima Island ecotourism showed an overall upward trend, with coordination evolving from a state of minimal coordination to an intermediate level. However, opportunities remain to enhance high-quality coordination through mutual influences and interdependencies. (3) Predictions indicate a slight increase in ecotourism coupling coordination on Amami-Oshima Island over the next nine years (2022–2030). Based on these findings, this paper presents several policy recommendations, serving as a guideline for ecotourism development on Amami-Oshima Island. The research results carry significant implications for understanding the present status and future trends of ecotourism on Amami-Oshima Island and offer valuable policy suggestions for the development of ecotourism on other islands.

SWOT analysis of Ecotourism development in Sembilang National Park, Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Tourism is one of the dynamic industrial activities for a country's income. Tourism can take the form of ecotourism with potential factors for nature conservation and development. Ecotourism is a form of tourism that is primarily inspired by the natural history of an area, including the area's indigenous culture. Effective sustainable ecotourism management must use strategic planning. Strategic planning can use the SWOT matrix. In general, the strengths of Sembilang National Park are the uniqueness of migratory birds from Siberia that do not exist anywhere else and the presence of exotic animal habitats. The weakness of Sembilang National Park is that transportation is still dominated by waterways and there is a lack of clean water sources. The opportunities for Sembilang TN include financial assistance and international recognition. Meanwhile, the threat to Sembilang National Park is weather conditions which greatly affect waterways. From the weighting results, it is found that the position of Sembilang TN is on the X axis with a value of 9. So it can be concluded that Sembilang TN is at a positive point on the The position of the Sembilang National Park development strategy is in Quadrant I, namely the strategy of utilizing all strengths to seize and exploit maximum opportunities.

Land Use, Built-Up, and Vegetation Index in North Halmahera Regency through Spatio-Temporal Analysis

Monitoring land use, buildings, and vegetation index of ecotourism areas in North Halmahera can support planning space utilization in urban areas for tourist areas as the concept of land use management and urban planning. This study offers ideas for analyzing the distribution of buildings, vegetation index, and land use in the mangrove ecotourism area of North Halmahera Regency using the spatio-temporal analysis method. The spatio-temporal analysis method comprises several stages: data selection, preprocessing, data integration, spatial analysis, temporal analysis, spatio-temporal analysis, data visualization, interpretation and understanding, and data visualization. The results of this study show that changes in the livelihood strategy of local people, from farmers and fishermen to traders, also affect land use patterns, from agricultural activities to economic activities, which triggers an increase in the number of buildings for production activities to product distribution. The implications of these findings on ecotourism development programs and policies and infrastructure development in the North Halmahera Regency are to consider community livelihoods and space or land use behavior in ecotourism areas based on vegetation, soil, and building index values. Thus, the intensification of building distribution and changes in vegetation index values from 2013-2023 reflect changes in people's livelihood strategies from agrarian activities to trade and from fishermen's activities to tourism transportation service providers.

Analyzing the applicability of wetland ecological modes in the Minjiang Estuary wetland

Wetlands are badly damaged in many parts of the world. The wetland management of Minjiang Estuary wetland has achieved remarkable results. This provides valuable experience for wetland management in other areas. Minjiang Estuary wetland can achieve the effect, mainly because of the adoption of the water quality management, ecological restoration, and ecological tourism development. However, different management modes have their own scope of application. In order to spread its successes, three differential game modes related to Minjiang Estuary wetland management are constructed, and their equilibrium results are compared and analyzed. Finally, research shows that the amount of water quality control by governments is directly proportional to the resilience of wetlands. The amount of social organization culture is proportional to the degree of better water quality. The amount of development by the government and social organizations is directly proportional to the decrease of investment in the spontaneous tourism industry. When the loss caused by flood or the ecological restoration effect is large, the wetland should adopt the ecological restoration mode. When the increased income or reputation of ecotourism is large, the ecotourism development mode should be adopted. This provides a reference for how to manage wetlands and how to promote the management mode of Minjiang Estuary wetland to other areas more effectively.

ANALISIS STRATEGI DALAM PENGIMPLEMENTASIAN ECOTOURISM DI DESA WISATA HIJAU BILEBANTE, LOMBOK TENGAH, NTB, DI TENGAH ERA PEMBANGUNAN BERKELANJUTAN

This journal discusses ecotourism applied in Bilebante village as a form of tourism that emphasizes nature conservation and environmental sustainability. This journal aims to analyze strategies in implementing ecotourism in the green tourism village of Bilebante, Central Lombok, NTB. The method that will be used in writing this journal is qualitative research by collecting secondary data and observation through the interview process. In this context, Bilebante Village in Central Lombok, NTB, applies the concept of ecotourism to green tourism as a sustainable development effort. This itself will certainly have a domino effect on several dimensions in the economic space with a wider range, the development of ecotourism makes the local community have many options in using the benefits of tourism as employment. This research will use the concepts of ecotourism and sustainable tourism to analyze the implementation in Bilebante Village, with a focus on nature conservation, community participation, and the environment. In the end, this research is expected to conclude on how the strategy of implementing ecotourism in Bilebante Village without feeling that sustainable development is a threat to the concept of tourism applied in the village, and can provide insight to readers related to ecotourism, especially in the green tourism village of Bilebante, Lombok, NTB.

A SUSTAINABLE ECOTOURISM PLANNING MODEL: DOES IT MATTER?

Objectives: This study aims to analyze the condition of tourism in the future and make a sustainable ecotourism planning model. The sample is East Java of areas, namely The Tapal Kuda region. This is because the tourism sector is one of the main sectors to increase economic growth in East Java. This potential is not only to increase the local revenue, but also to excess business opportunities, create new jobs, reduce unemployment and economic recovery. But, COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on tourism because decrease in tourist visits, thus providing a domino effect on the other sectors. In addition, tourism has threats, such as disaster; inflation; and the economic condition. Based on literature studies, the threats have a negative impact on the demand for tourists to visit and threatens tourism sustainability. Methods: This research used quantitative descriptive analysis with three steps, input; matching stage; and decision stage. The data in this research is primary with used a survey method. Observation collection data techniques used interviews, questionnaires, documentation and secondary data from literature. The strategy formulation techniques of decision-making stage can be integrated in three from identifying, evaluating, and selecting strategies can be applied to all types and sizes of organizations. Results: Tourism villages are one of the potentials that can be developed in the Tapal Kuda area, East Java. Tapal Kuda area consists of Pasuruan, Probolinggo, Bondowoso, and Banyuwangi. Based on the identification results, such as tourist attractions, tourism facilities, accessibility, community and environmental aspects, market aspects, management and services, linkages of tourist attractions, as well as community participation in the form of decision making, participation in implementation, participation in benefit-making, and evaluation, the results of almost all indicators have been met. A Sustainable ecotourism planning must pay attentionto various aspects economic, social, and environmental. Ecotourism development planning strategies with increasing human capital through community participation; stakeholder collaboration; integraty destination tourism; and promotion be the main factor to sustainability of tourism. Conclusion: A Sustainable ecotourism planning model must pay attention to various aspects economic, social, and environmental. Human capital through community participation and involvement of stakeholders in this development strategy is important, not only to increase tourism visiting and economic growth, but also integraty destination tourism, preserving the environment and welfare in the society.

DEVELOPMENT OF A GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZING TOURIST ROUTES IN THE ULYTAU NATIONAL NATURAL PARK

This article analyzes the development of ecotourism in the Ulytau Nature Park using innovative Geographi c information systems technologies. The main purpose of the study is to create a favorable and innovative environment for the development of the tourist experience, including the search and discovery of historical sites, the development of optimal routes and infrastructure improvements. The use of GIS maps in ecological tourism contributes to the development of optimal routes, improvement of tourist infrastructure and provision of informative services. The analysis of the study makes it possible to identify recommendations for public and private organizations in the field of using GIS technologies for the sustainable development of ecotourism. The created GIS map provides information about the park's territory, the location of objects and routes, which contributes to a more informative and oriented tourist experience. The experience of working with GIS technologies enhances the ability of tourists to navigate, discover and obtain information about historical sites and attractions in ecotourism and help enrich the tourist experience.

COMPREHENSIVE PARTICIPATION: A THEORETICALLY HAILED YET PRACTICALLY DISREGARDED APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE ECOTOURISM

The commitment and attitudes of all stakeholders, as well as giving recognition to their value as partners in the ecotourism domain, are crucial elements in ensuring sustainable ecotourism development. The social capacity theory (SCT) posits that implementing networks of relationships is a fundamental basis for successful and sustainable tourism development. However, research has shown that the planning and management of numerous ecotourism development programs are marred by a top-down approach. This study examined the level of stakeholder participation in ecotourism activities in the Umfolozi Municipality to determine if any gaps exist in the participation structure of this key economic enterprise. A concurrent exploratory mixed methods design was operated using qualitative and quantitative survey. Qualitative data that were collected from purposefully sampled participants were thematically analysed, while quantitative data that were collected from conveniently sampled respondents were analysed using SPSS software. The findings highlight the centralisation of power and a fragmented ecotourism landscape in the study area that is plagued by manipulative participation, lack of collaboration, lac k of co-ordination, lack of awareness, and apathy among key stakeholders.

An evaluation on community participation in ecotourism activities post Covid-19 pandemic at Tan Loc islet, Thot Not district, Can Tho city

The article aims to assess the status of community participation and the factors affecting community participation in ecotourism activities at Tan Loc islet, Thot Not district, Can Tho City after the Covid-19 pandemic. This study is conducted through documents, field trips, and questionnaires. The empirical results show five factors affecting community participation: perception of economic benefits, social capital, local resources, local policies, and lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic. Based on those mentioned earlier, the paper proposes several solutions to enhance community participation in ecotourism development in this area.

THE USE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND SOCIAL NETWORKS IN ECOTOURISM MARKETING

Ecotourism is the main product of the tourism industry in Kazakhstan, but its competitiveness in the global market is still low. However, it occupies an important place in the country's tourism sector and represents a key element for its development. This article highlights the topic of eco-tourism in Kazakhstan and the challenges it faces in the global market. Special attention is paid to the use of digital technologies and social networks in the field of ecotourism promotion. The paper analyzes the impact of the Internet and social media on the growth of ecotourism. In addition, the results of research containing information useful for potential tourists are presented, as well as promising directions for the development of ecotourism in Kazakhstan and methods of informing potential visitors about available opportunities are considered. The article also analyzes current trends and opportunities in the field of ecotourism marketing. Examples of tourism campaigns, nature parks, and nature reserves that use social networks and new IT technologies to attract the attention of ecotourists are given.

Issues of Ecological Tourism Development on the Territory of Pribaikalye

Over the past few years, Russians' interest in domestic tourism has been steadily growing. This trend is due not only to external factors, but also to the initiatives of the Russian Government and governors implemented at the federal and regional levels. Tourism is becoming a strategic resource for the development of the Russian economy. The article gives examples of regions that are leaders in eco-tourism, demonstrates data confirming the development of tourism in Russian regions. Irkutsk region is characterized by the richness of flora and fauna, diversity of specially protected natural areas (SPNA). Protected areas are represented by two federal reserves (Baikal-Lensky and Vitimsky), Pribaikalsky National Park, two wildlife sanctuaries (Tofalarsky and Krasny Yar). Also in the Irkutsk region there is a part of the territory subject to protection — Lake Baikal World Natural Heritage Site. The ecosystems of protected areas are fragile in their structure, and serious interference in their structure can lead to destruction and death. Therefore, it is important to strike a balance between the development of tourism infrastructure and the preservation of natural heritage. In the world practice ecological tourism is a tool that allows designing modern ecological centers of international scale. This issue is particularly relevant for Pribaikalsky Krai; a number of documents at the federal and regional levels have identified the development of eco-tourism as one of the priority directions. In this context, it is very important to find such tools and mechanisms that will allow to preserve the environment for future generations, since the influx of tourists not only brings profit, but also leaves behind unfavorable consequences for the environment.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ECO-TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ON THE EXAMPLE OF SPECIALLY PROTECTED NATURE AREAS OF RA IN THE CONTEXT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGIONS

The article explores various aspects of the potential for ecotourism development within Armenia's Specially Protected Nature Areas (SPNA’s). With growing global interest in sustainable travel practices, ecotourism presents a promising avenue for promoting conservation efforts while simultaneously providing socio-economic benefits to local communities. Armenia's SPNAs, characterized by their rich biodiversity and unique landscapes, offer an ideal setting for ecotourism initiatives, however, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited visitor facilities, insufficient marketing strategies and absence of data analytics hinder the realization of ecotourism potential in SPNA’s. By capitalizing on the natural and cultural assets of SPNAs and adopting sustainable tourism practices, Armenia has the opportunity to establish itself as a leading ecotourism destination in the region, attracting environmentally conscious travelers and contributing to the country's socio-economic development. The primary objective of the article is to assess the existing situation of the recent 5 years by providing respective data analysis, as well as highlight the gaps and opportunities, ultimately striving for a balanced and sustainable outcome both for affected communities and natural ecosystems.

Ecotourism Strategy and Potential of Delleng Simpon, Ulumerah, Pakpak Bharat Regency

Ecotourism can be developed into a sustainable development model because its management concept is oriented to the economy and maintaining forest preservation and community empowerment. Delleng Simpon is a forest area with a beautiful panoramic expanse. The Delleng Simpon area is critical and has the potential to be developed. This study aims to find strategies and potentials in the management of Delleng Simpon ecotourism by considering the community's ecological, economic, and socio-cultural conditions. This research used the qualitative descriptive case study method. Data collection was carried out through surveys and interviews in the field. The data was analyzed using the SWOT method. The analysis results showed that (42%) of respondents were not involved in tourism management because ecotourism is managed directly by the Tourism Office, visitor participation in maintaining cleanliness is still low, and only (14%) always dispose of garbage in its place. Respondents' perceptions of ecotourism development, including access, facilities, cleanliness, and promotion, are still less than optimal; all respondents agreed to build public facilities and support facilities immediately. The SWOT analysis results for the Delleng Simpon ecotourism development strategy are in Quadrant I by implementing the Strength-Opportunities (SO) strategy. The priority of the SO's strategy is the development of ecotourism by involving more local communities; its management must be carried out with the principles of preserving the environment, increasing educational value, and maximizing local wisdom.