Stakeholder perspectives on ecotourism in Jordan’s protected areas: Navigating sustainable development goals, challenges ,and opportunities

• Alsaqer, Zakaria ^[1] ; Saladié-Borraz, Òscar ^[1]
  1. [1] Universitat Rovira i Virgili

     Universitat Rovira i Virgili

     Tarragona, España

     
• Localización: Repensando los destinos turísticos en tiempos de cambio global / Adrián Ferrandis Martínez (ed. lit.), Carmen Zornoza Gallego (ed. lit.), José Vicente Sánchez Cabrera (ed. lit.), 2024, ISBN 978-84-9133-737-9, págs. 117-138
• Idioma: inglés
• Enlaces
  • Texto Completo Libro
• Resumen

  • Ecotourism has significantly impacted the worldwide tourism industry, gainingacknowledgement for its ability to promote environmental preservation, safeguard biodiversity, andinvolve local communities. Travellers are attracted to unspoiled natural environments for leisure and aprofound connection with the ecosystems they are exploring. The global significance of ecotourismstems from its capacity to advance sustainable travel practices, mitigate adverse environmental effects,and enhance the welfare of indigenous communities. Jordan, known for its notable historical and naturalresources, is prominent in the international tourism industry, substantially contributing to employmentand wealth. With its ancient wonders, such as Petra, and its varied ecosystems in protected areas, thecountry presents a wide array of attractions. The tourism industry, which includes ecotourism, plays acrucial role in generating employment opportunities by involving local communities in activities suchas guiding, hospitality, and other related services. Ecotourism initiatives prioritise sustainable practicesand promote responsible utilisation of natural resources, creating employment opportunities. In additionto employment, tourism activities, such as ecotourism, are essential for generating wealth and supportinglocal economies by contributing to small businesses and services. Therefore, the objectives of this studyare (i) to analyse how ecotourism practices in three of Jordan's protected areas contribute to or hinderglobal sustainable development goals and (ii) to identify the key challenges and opportunities associatedwith managing ecotourism in protected areas, impacting both ecological preservation and socioeconomic aspects. The case studies are Dana Biosphere Reserve, Azraq Wetland Reserve, and Ajloun Forest Reserve in Jordan. The research employs a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews withten key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Environment,NGOs, protected area and eco-lodge managers, and academics. The research reveals a positive synergyamong public and private stakeholders involved in ecotourism initiatives within the selected reserves.The reserves emphasise joint efforts to address environmental challenges and promote responsibletourism practices. For example, respondents from the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation ofNature (RSCN) highlight collaboration with local communities, involving them in conservation effortsand creating income-generating initiatives. Additionally, the research indicates that the RSCNcollaborates with the local community to secure support for preserving reserves, demonstrating apartnership-oriented approach to conservation. This collaborative spirit between public and privateentities showcases a shared understanding of balancing ecological preservation with socio-economicbenefits. These insights offer valuable guidance for shaping future endeavours to promote Jordan'ssustainable development.