Ecotourism Operators Research Articles

Enhancing green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) conservation for tourists at Little Liuqiu island, Taiwan: Application of deep learning algorithms

Observing marine life has emerged as a pivotal catalyst for the growth of the Blue Economy. Yet, overzealous and recurrent observations may exert undue stress on marine creatures, thereby complicating the sustainable management of marine assets. After the easing of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, a notable influx of tourists to Little Liuqiu Island, Taiwan puts considerable stress on its green sea turtle population. This surge intensified incidents of illegal harassment, triggering concerns from both the local community and administrative bodies. The prevailing challenge is to ensure tourists observe these turtles with respect, refraining from behaviors such as touching or pursuing them. Addressing this, our study harnesses deep learning algorithms to equip ecotourism operators and tourists with tools to detect green sea turtles across diverse coastal terrains, reinforcing conservation efforts. Our analysis scrutinized object detection AI models, namely YOLOv3, YOLOv5s, and YOLOv5l. Fieldwork was undertaken on the island to gather ample training images, capturing elusive green sea turtles in various settings, from coastline strolls to drone imagery. Supplemental images sourced from local social media platforms were later added. Contrary to expectations, we found that merely expanding the training dataset did not guarantee improved outcomes. Instead, the variance in image content, considering distances, angles, and turtle appearances, played a pivotal role in enhancing model precision. Through our experimentation, the streamlined YOLOv5s model consistently eclipsed its more complex counterparts in performance. An AI service, underpinned by the YOLOv5s model, has been launched to distinguish between green sea turtle types for tourist-focused conservation initiatives. Future iterations will incorporate user feedback to refine accuracy. Our research breaks new ground, spotlighting the intricacies of gathering natural environment data, pinpointing optimal AI models, and evaluating their practical implications for green sea turtle conservation.

ASSESSING THE RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE (KAP) ASSESSMENTS ON COVID-19 TRANSMISSION KNOWLEDGE AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES AMONG ECOTOURISM OPERATORS

This cross-sectional study conducted in rural Pahang state, Malaysia, aimed to validate a questionnaire examining ecotourism operators’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 transmission and preventive measures. Data collection utilised the snowball technique. The questionnaire, comprising 34 items covering knowledge, attitude, and practice constructs, underwent rigorous validation and piloting before the actual fieldwork. All factor loading scores (>0.65) and Cronbach’s alpha (α≥0.69) were greater than the reference value, relaying indicators of reliability and internal consistency of the measured latent variables. The findings revealed that the KAP model met the goodness-of-fit criteria (HTMT<.90, SRMR<0.08, NFI>0.90) and convergent validity was achieved (AVF≤0.50). The study confirms the meticulous instrument validation, ensuring the survey tool’s effectiveness in gauging KAP among ecotourism operators. This study’s novelty lies in its focus on the KAP spectrum vis-à-vis COVID-19 among operators engaged in these ecotourism domains. By bridging this gap, the research aspires to inform tailored interventions, ultimately fortifying resilience against future health crises in ecotourism communities.

Eco-destination image, environment beliefs, ecotourism attitudes, and ecotourism intention: The moderating role of biospheric values

This study examines the relationship between eco-destination image, environment beliefs, ecotourism attitudes, eco-behavioral intention, and ecotourism intention while also exploring the moderating role of biospheric values within the context of the Values-Identity-Personal (VIP) theory. The research aims to understand the correlation between these variables and the motivational forces driving individuals toward ecotourism. Drawing on a sample of 683 respondents from a well-known emerging eco-destination, Mang Den, the study tests the hypotheses using structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that eco-destination image, environment beliefs, and ecotourism attitudes significantly impact ecotourism intention. The moderating effects of biospheric values are also discovered in this study. The results of this study provide a theoretical framework for future research that integrates the VIP theory into the ecotourism context. The findings can be useful for policymakers and ecotourism operators in developing strategies that promote sustainable tourism by targeting tourists' values.

Business Models and Strategies for Managing Indigenous-based Natural Tourism in and around Danau Sentarum National Park (Ecotourism Meliau Hamlet)

Danau Sentarum National Park (DSNP), situated in West Kalimantan's Kapuas Hulu region, stands out as a unique destination. Meliau Hamlet, located within and around DSNP, servesasasettlementfortheDayak Ibantribe, preserving theirdistinctcustoms. The surrounding area boasts captivating landscapes, including lakes, swamps, rivers, and hills, drawing both domestic and international tourists. Recognizing this potential, the Melemba Village government established KPP Kaban Mayas, an ecotourism initiative. However, challenges such as limited human resources, insufficient infrastructure, and management issues hindered Meliau Hamlet's ecotourism operations. This research aimed to assess ecotourism development feasibility, economic viability, and community engagement. It also outlined the ecotourism management's business model and strategies. Data was gathered through field visits, interviews, and surveys. Analysis encompassed scoring tourist attractions, evaluating stakeholders, financial assessments, and community capital. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) described the business model, while strategies were formulated using SWOT analysis, Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM), and Blue Ocean Strategy (BOS). Results underscored natural resources as vital assets for ecotourism. Meliau Hamlet's ecotourism could thrive by focusing on value proposition, keyresources, keyactivities, and keypartnerships.

Inclusive Practices in Malaysian Eco-Tourism: A Comprehensive Roadmap for the Future of Sustainable and Diverse Tourism

This study, aimed to investigate the extent to which eco-tourism ventures in Malaysia incorporate inclusive and sustainable practices. The problem identified was a lack of comprehensive strategies that encompass environmental protection, social inclusion, and economic benefits. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that involved surveying 500 tourists and interviewing 20 eco-tourism operators, we examined the existing practices and perspectives on inclusivity and sustainability. Findings revealed that only 30% of eco-tourism ventures implemented concrete inclusive policies, such as providing facilities for individuals with disabilities or incorporating local communities in decision-making. Furthermore, while 70% of operators reported some sustainable practices like waste management and limited deforestation, these measures were often ad hoc and lacked a holistic approach. As for tourists, 80% expressed that inclusive practices significantly influenced their choice of eco-tourism activities, yet 65% were unaware of the actual inclusive policies of the ventures they patronized. The study concluded that although some initiatives are in place, a structured framework is necessary for a truly inclusive and sustainable eco-tourism industry in Malaysia. Recommendations include the development of national guidelines for inclusivity, more rigorous audits of existing eco-tourism operators, and public awareness campaigns aimed at both tourists and operators. Governmental support in the form of tax incentives and grants for ventures that adopt inclusive and sustainable practices can also catalyze the change needed. This research thus serves as a roadmap for stakeholders, suggesting a multi-pronged approach to making Malaysian eco-tourism a beacon for inclusivity and sustainability. Keywords: Inclusive Practices, Malaysian Eco-Tourism, Sustainability, Policy Framework, Stakeholder Involvement

The promise of posthumanism in wildlife ecotourism: a set of case studies of veterinarians’ role at wildlife rehabilitation centers in Costa Rica

ABSTRACT This study explored wildlife rehabilitation centers (WRCs) in Costa Rica as a potential posthumanist model for wildlife ecotourism. Posthumanism attends to the rights, welfare, and agency of nonhumans to depart from a conservation biology ethos that focuses on the species-level, to consider all particular individual animals in wildlife tourist attractions (WTAs). A team of 16 US-based researchers composed of faculty, a wildlife rehabilitation professional, and 12 university students conducted a 16-day pilot study to understand the context of wildlife rehabilitation, veterinarian practices, and ecotourism operations at three WRCs and a veterinary teaching hospital. Three rehabilitation centers are rated using a posthuman multispecies livelihoods framework. Ethnographic insights highlight practical challenges in operating rehabilitation centers and also the ethical challenges in promoting individual rights, welfare, and agency. Findings suggest that the level of treatment toward each individual animal in WRCs and ecotourism sites differs, based on the actions and beliefs of human actors who hold power over nonhumans. A major unforeseen ethical dilemma arose during the study concerning the treatment of prey species, which foregrounds the need for future research on this topic. By attending to ethical beliefs in WTAs, WRCs show their potential as a pathway for posthumanist ecotourism.

Sustainable Business Practices and Value Creation: Ecotourism Operators and Small and Medium Businesses in Sandakan

Sustainable Business Practices and Value Creation: Ecotourism Operators and Small and Medium Businesses in Sandakan

COMPLEMENTING EASTERN PACIFIC GREEN TURTLE POPULATION MONITORING WITH LOCAL ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE: BASELINE ASSESSMENT OF Chelonia mydas SURROUNDING PARQUE NACIONAL ZONA MARINA FROM THE ARCHIPIÉLAGO ESPÍRITU SANTO, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR, MEXICO

To improve analysis of the current Eastern Pacific Green (EPG) turtle population status, a spatial assessment is needed on their presence and frequency in their frequented habitats. This study aims to develop a framework from which a baseline study could be undertaken focused on EPG turtles surrounding the waters of Parque Nacional Zona Marina from the Archipiélago Espíritu Santo. Two years of data and a research survey focused on Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) from ecotourism guides operating out of La Paz, BCS, México were used. Due to the University of California’s Institutional Review Board’s (IRB) protocol and small sample size of survey participants, survey data may not be used to extrapolate to the population of ecotourism operators in La Paz. Although past studies have integrated LEK from fishers, this is the first study to introduce LEK from the ecotourism sector to inform EPG turtle conservation efforts in México. The results from this project will contribute to a better understanding and further insight of how this species utilizes this area.

The determinants of virtual reality adoption for marine conservation

Initiatives for marine conservation are funded by revenue from marine sites. However, the emergence of COVID-19 has restricted travelling, thus leading to decreased revenue and weakening conservation efforts. Virtual reality technology to support marine conservation efforts is explored as it allows users to experience marine sites, without having to be there physically. This study examines factors influencing users' desire to adopt virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. With the integration of Stimulus-Organism-Response framework and three behavioural theories (i.e. health belief model, attitude, and eTrust), a hypothetical model was constructed to investigate consumers’ intention to adopt virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism amidst the pandemic. The data were analysed and interpreted using structural equation modelling after 451 survey responses were obtained via an online questionnaire. Outcome expectation, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, self-efficacy, and cues to action exhibit significant positive effects on attitude towards virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. Consequently, attitude has a direct and indirect influence on use intention via eTrust. Post hoc analysis revealed that self-efficacy has a direct impact on eTrust and use intention. Total effect analysis further concluded that attitude has the greatest influence on use intention of virtual reality technology in marine ecotourism. This research contributes to the existing literature by utilizing health belief factors to explain use intention of technology towards marine conservation efforts. Recommendations including policy formulation and marketing initiatives were generated for marine ecotourism operators and policymakers.

Relationship Analysis of Local Community Participation in Sustainable Ecotourism Development in Protected Areas, Iran

Nature conservation efforts cannot succeed without stakeholder participation. The inherent complexity of nature-based ecotourism has made the development of sustainable ecotourism operations a challenge, so it is essential to increase community stakeholder participation. Hence, this study investigates local community participation in Lar National Park (LNP) and the Jajrud Protected Area with the Sustainable Use of Natural Resource Areas (JPA) in Iran and evaluates how this influences the sustainability of ecotourism. This study found that in LNP, sustainable ecotourism development involving local communities is increasing because of the high level of attachment and interest to this part of pristine nature. In the JPA, the relationship between local community participation and ecotourism sustainability is significant too. As a result, natural habitats have been degraded and sustainability has decreased. To conserve these critically endangered natural areas, managers and decision-makers must increase community participation and education to encourage local communities to engage more in developing sustainable ecotourism.

Ecotourism anywhere? The lure of ecotourism and the need to scrutinize the potential competitiveness of ecotourism developments

This study critiques attempts to develop ecotourism operations at sites with low ecotourism potential. It draws on 34 interviews from five mangrove forests in the Philippines that were developed for ecotourism under various co-management arrangements involving private entrepreneurs, local government, and community participation and empowerment. These stakeholders were initially lured by a vision of the economic, social, and environmental benefits that ecotourism can deliver. However, most sites were located far from major cities and tourism hubs, with limited infrastructure, and unable to outcompete other attractions such as beaches. Financial and business challenges ensued, including low tourist numbers and insufficient revenues to cover operational and maintenance costs. Subsequently, some ecoparks experienced mismanagement, embezzlement, and the psychological and political disempowerment of local communities. The study cautions that despite ecotourism's allure, stakeholders could have much to lose from pursuing the ecotourism vision and failing to realise it.

Empowering voluntary approaches for environmental sustainability and resilient communities: a case study from Okinawa, Japan

What can government do to secure environmental sustainability and resilient communities? We discuss an emerging policy approach in natural tourism resource management in the Okinawa Prefecture using the case of the ‘Conservation and Use Agreement’ (CUA, hereafter) defined in the Act on Special Measures for the Promotion of Okinawa. The CUA is the certification by the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture, which endorses the self-regulation concluded by site-level eco-tour operators. We analysed the legal and administrative structure of the CUA and the implementation process of nine (existing/expired) CUA cases based on thorough literature reviews and in-depth interviews. We discuss three points from the analysis. Firstly, the number of CUAs remains small because of its huge transaction costs compared to the benefits of the status. Secondly, the CUA generally works as a precaution; however, it is not effective for solving the existing overuse issues for its voluntary characteristics. Thirdly, the administrative resources need to be strengthened for better communication with operators to further enhance the implementation.

First descriptions of the seasonal habitat use and residency of scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) and Galapagos sharks (Carcharhinus galapagensis) at a coastal seamount off Japan

BackgroundThe Northwestern Pacific is a data-poor region for studies into the movements and habitat use of open ocean and pelagic sharks. However, this region experiences considerable pressure from commercial fishing. Therefore, shark movement data from this region carry significant implications for conservation and management, particularly for threatened species. Here, we provide the first data on seasonal residency and movements of scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) and Galapagos sharks (Carcharhinus galapagensis), using acoustic and satellite telemetry, and dive logbooks, off Japan.ResultsEight female sharks, four of each species, were tagged around a coastal seamount off southeastern Japan (Mikomoto Island) in August 2015, and monitored for a period of up to 363 days using an array of six receivers around the island. Analyses of the more abundant scalloped hammerhead acoustic data suggest high seasonal residency predominantly from August to November associated with lower chlorophyll-a concentrations, before sharks then leave the island and return the following summer. Residency for scalloped hammerhead sharks were highest among those receivers closest to the Kuroshio Current, which produces strong coastal upwelling, however SST was not found to be predictive of occurrence at Mikomoto. Shark presence was corroborated by analysis of dive-log data from a local ecotourism operator. We also produced two unique satellite tracks, whereby a scalloped hammerhead exhibited a 200-km dispersal into a coastal embayment west of the tagging location and a Galapagos shark migrated over 800 km offshore into the high seas.ConclusionThis study provided some of the first behavioral and movement data for scalloped hammerhead and Galapagos sharks in Japan. Our findings suggest varying spatial and temporal visitation of two shark species to a coastal seamount, underscored by some degree of seasonal residency and site fidelity and linked, for scalloped hammerhead sharks at least, to varying productivity. Furthermore, we provided preliminary evidence for long-distance dispersal of these species, and some site fidelity to seamounts in the region. This study highlights the importance of describing shark movements to aid in filling critical data gaps for poorly understood, endemic populations of threatened species.

The Ecotourism Hub: A joint cross-border marketing strategy for peripheral islands

Notwithstanding their ecotourism potential, small peripheral islands have been closely associated with the enjoyment of sun, sea and sand (3S) as their major tourism product. Fieldwork was conducted in a group of islands/archipelagos collectively known as the Maltese-Sicilian archipelago to identify marketing challenges. Interviews were held with stakeholders to assess their views on the use of a joint cross-border marketing strategy to overcome such challenges. Marketing challenges identified included limited promotion, mostly conducted indirectly, and spearheaded by 3S tourism operators owing to the limited resources of ecotourism operators. Results indicate that several joint marketing and cross- border initiatives are already in place and others are being developed. This approach has the potential to avoid a scenario where small islands are overshadowed by bigger islands and reduces futile competition. By pooling resources, islands will be in a better position to determine their brand, reach more markets and showcase their distinctiveness. Furthermore, products that promote cross-border island hopping increase the competitiveness of small peripheral islands and archipelagos which have experienced habitat fragmentation or islands which are too small to serve as an ecotourism destination on their own.

A comparative study of sustainability profiles between small-scale mariculture, capture fisheries and tourism communities within the Anambas Archipelago Small Island MPA, Indonesia

Mariculture is viewed by some as an unsustainable economic activity in marine protected areas (MPAs). Surprisingly, no study has confirmed or rejected the veracity of the view. In Indonesia's multi-purpose MPAs, mariculture is considered as part of the local communities' livelihood and resilience strategy. This study aimed to determine whether small-scale fish farming, along with small-scale fisheries and eco-tourism, contributes to the livelihood sustainability of communities in Indonesia's small island MPAs, and if the practice is compatible with the overall MPA objectives. The study was conducted in the Anambas Archipelago MPA and interviewed 66 respondents from three household groups (small-scale fish farmers, fishers, and eco-tourism operators) from 15 villages. A closed- and open-ended questionnaire was developed to determine the sustainability profile of each livelihood group. The questionnaire consisted of 75 questions representing the sustainability indicators (SIs) of the five capital assets described in the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF). The SIs were measured using a Likert-scale and a Likert-type scale with multiple scales. The data were standardised using linear transformation and aggregated to calculate the SIs composite values. The study found that the livelihood sustainability of the small-scale fish farmer group is comparable to small-scale fisher and tourism operator groups. Interestingly, the fish farmer group outperformed the other two groups in relation to human capital assets by developing a strong social network. Small-scale fish farmer, fisher and eco-tourism operator groups have a composite sustainability index value of 0.55, 0.61, and 0.50, respectively, categorised as intermediate sustainability. This study concluded that the sustainability profile of each livelihood group could be improved for the specific underperforming capital assets by increasing support from the government and MPA authority.

Exploring the ecotourism service experience framework using the dimensions of motivation, expectation and ecotourism experience

This study explores the ecotourism service experience framework by analysing ecotourists’ motivations and expectations, as well as the dimensions of ecotourism experiences. A total of 51 ecotourists were interviewed in person at ecotourist lodges in Lower Kinabatangan, Malaysia. Interview responses were analysed using thematic analysis, and a multi-data triangulation was carried out to identify key service experience dimensions guided by the co-creation concept. Findings reveal that motivations and expectations of ecotourists are connected to the dimensions of ecotourism experiences. Several findings reveal that key dimensions include ‘wildlife’, ‘nature/environment’ and ‘experiences driven from ecotourism activities’ (such as riverboat cruises and jungle trekking). Based on the interviews, these dimensions can be further interpreted and conceptualised as ‘education’, ‘aesthetic’, ‘escape’ and ‘entertainment’, similar to the four realms of experience in the experience economy model by Pine and Gilmore (1998 , 1999) . Hence, an ecotourism service experience framework, comprising both tangible and intangible elements, is proposed as a sound and practical approach to understanding ecotourism service experiences. This study offers empirical evidence and an innovative approach by identifying the ecotourism service experience dimensions and exploring a relevant framework, which was previously neglected. Ecotourism operators should utilise the four identified service experience dimensions to stage unique ecotourism experiences and enhance destination attractiveness and competitiveness. Experiential marketing can capitalise on these dimensions as innovative selling points and attract ecotourists, thus providing practical value in marketing ecotourism destinations.

A Comparison of Vulnerability Risks and Conservation Perceptions between Mariculture, Fishery and Ecotourism Livelihood Groups in a Multi-Use MPA in Indonesia

Different livelihoods have different vulnerability risks and influences on the management of marine protected areas (MPAs). This research aimed to compare the seasonal, trend and shock livelihood vulnerability indicators (LVIs) of three dominant livelihood groups and the groups’ perceptions towards supporting MPA conservation efforts. The Anambas Archipelago MPA was selected as the study site. A total of 66 respondents from the three major groups were selected using stratified random sampling and interviewed using a questionnaire containing 14 LVIs. The responses were standardised and aggregated using functional relationships. The groups’ perceptions were determined using frequency distribution and thematic analyses (NVIVO 10). The LVI composite values showed that fishers were the most vulnerable (0.65), followed by fish farmers (0.62) and ecotourism operators (0.47). Fishers and fish farmers expressed high vulnerability due to their dependency on the coastal resources. The ecotourism operators had low vulnerability due to their lower dependency on natural resources, smaller impacts from seasonal weather, low involvement in resource conflicts and greater political support. The three groups supported the MPA regimes despite differences in their knowledge of the MPA restrictions on their livelihood practices. The study’s findings provide key alternative strategies to address the vulnerability risks of the three major groups and to increase their support for conservation goals in similar MPAs.

Navigating assumptions of wildlife viewing impacts

Wildlife viewing is an important activity that has the potential to raise money for conservation efforts and support small, local ecotourism operations, and communities. It is often assumed to be low impact since it is non-consumptive; however, research shows there can be negative impacts to wildlife as a result of viewing activities, which we explore in different examples below. We provide recommendations for organizations that manage these operations to keep in mind as they consider the potential impacts of these activities and develop strategies to minimize them.

Seeking a deeper level of responsibility for inclusive (eco)tourism duty and the pinnacle of practice

As a form of tourism that aims to be sustainable and, in broader terms, responsible and ethical, ecotourism occupies a peak position in terms of people’s understanding of sustainable tourism. The purpose of this paper is to articulate how responsibility can be actuated through a deeper consideration of duty (good as intrinsic) and strategic (good for business) perspectives. In pursuit of this overall aim, the paper investigates a sample of Ecotourism Australia (EA) certified company websites to examine inclusivity barriers based on the social model of disability: physical, attitudinal, and informational. The choice of Australia is based on the observation that ecotourism providers in this region are often cited as highly advanced in terms of policies and practices. Results suggest that there is only limited statistical support for the hypothesis that the “leading” ecotourism operators (with advanced EA certification) in Australia pay more attention to disability issues than those in the “following” group (with lower categories of EA certification). The paper concludes by suggesting that the responsibility agenda is most likely to move forward by providers adopting ways of "thinking" and "doing" that emphasise duty and justice instead of following accepted business practice.

Studi Evaluasi Formatif Pengelolaan Ekowisata ‘Burung Indonesia’ di Mbeliling, Flores

Covid pandemic is hitting global tourism, Indonesia is no exception. However, there is hope that tourism will improve in the future. Ecotourism is one product that is considered to be capable of being the solution. Burung Indonesia is the main ecotourism operator in Flores, its activities are located in the Mbeliling area about 50 km from Labuanbajo. Is the ecotourism management carried out well and in accordance with global sustainable tourism standards? This study aims to evaluate the management of ecotourism in Mbeliling, Flores by referring to the overall criteria and indicators required by GSTC v2.0 The method used in applied social research formative evaluation is descriptive qualitative. Data collection was carried out directly through comprehensive observation and in-depth interviews for five days in the field. Secondary data obtained through documentation, historical comparison, and supported by quantitative non-reactive data. In the next stage, the analysis of research is more emphasized on the analysis of literature conducted descriptively. The results of the study revealed unsatisfactory results for managers. The results of this evaluation should be used as a reference for future improvements, so that they become superior ecotourism operators and in accordance with sustainable tourism practices.
 Keyword: Ecotourism; Formative Evaluation Research; GSTC v2.0; Mbeliling; Sustainable Tourism