Ecotourism in the Digital Age: A Sustainable Approach

Dr.N.Gurumurthy, Dr. N.K. Pradeep Kumar

Ecotourism, Digital Transformation, Tourists, Community Empowerment

Ecotourism has become a pivotal element in the sustainable development of the nation, intertwining economic growth, community empowerment, and conservation efforts. At its core, ecotourism involves responsible travel to natural or protected areas, fostering an appreciation for the environment and promoting awareness to mitigate adverse environmental impacts while simultaneously enhancing societal well-being. The current trend is characterized by a digitalized economy, where all economic activities are increasingly reliant on the integration of technology and digital innovations. The rise of digital technology has been remarkable on a global scale, with the travel and tourism industry being one of the earliest sectors to adopt digital transformation. This transformation encompasses the integration of digital tools such as augmented reality, mobile applications, and data analytics into ecotourism practices. By leveraging these digital resources, ecotourism operators can offer visitors engaging and educational experiences that deepen their connection to nature and foster a sense of environmental stewardship. To ensure a viable future for both tourists and the nation, it is essential for ecotourism to fully embrace this digital evolution. Nonetheless, the sector faces challenges, including limited resources, environmental degradation, social unrest, and market competition. This study emphasizes the implications of digitalization on sustainable ecotourism and explores potential solutions to these challenges.

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