نقش حمایت از توسعه بوم‌گردی و اثرات آن بر جوامع محلی (موردمطالعه: نواحی روستایی شرق استان مازندران)

Mazandaran Province, a prominent tourist destination in Iran, attracts over three million rural tourists annually. The eastern mountainous areas of the province, particularly notable for their natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, are key attractions. However, despite these assets, Mazandaran faces significant challenges, including a youth unemployment rate of 87,607 out of 623,162 active individuals. To address these challenges, improvements are needed in the business environment, international and regional connections, banking and insurance systems, and economic management. Employment distribution in Mazandaran shows 19.3% in agriculture, 28.5% in industry, and 52.2% in services, indicating low agricultural employment. Rural development is essential for addressing these issues and meeting the needs of rural populations. The Sixth Development Plan emphasizes the importance of rural development projects, leveraging local capacities, and improving infrastructure. However, challenges in eastern Mazandaran's rural areas persist, including land use changes, insufficient investment, marketing difficulties, industry overemphasis, high migration rates due to lack of sustainable employment, inadequate infrastructure, and weak rural management. Migration to cities is often driven by poor job opportunities and low income levels in rural areas. This study aims to analyze eco-tourism in the rural areas of eastern Mazandaran, specifically in Golestan, Behshahr, and Neka districts. These districts were selected for their distinctive economic, social, and cultural conditions, offering a unique opportunity for eco-tourism due to the region's diverse climate and landscapes. Eco-tourism has gained national significance, with government efforts increasing the number of eco-lodges and promoting local traditions and cuisine. The number of eco-lodges has grown from 400 to 1,700 under the current administration. However, unregulated tourism poses risks of environmental degradation and social issues. This research addresses key questions related to transportation, accommodation, services, natural attractions, market conditions, environmental impact, cultural acceptance, and organizational factors in rural eco-tourism development.

Methods

This study is applied in nature concerning its goals and expected outcomes and has been conducted using a survey method with a descriptive-explanatory approach. The statistical population of this research includes individuals over 18 years of age from the rural districts of Behshahr, Neka, and Galugah in Mazandaran Province. Based on Cochran's formula, a sample size of 384 individuals was selected using a cluster sampling method. The clustering criterion in this study considers regions that partially lie in coastal areas, with a significant portion in mountainous areas, while also benefiting from the beautiful attractions of the plains. Moreover, considering the measurement level of variables, sampling was conducted at two levels: rural and individual. a Level 1 Sampling: In the first stage, out of 14 rural districts in the eastern part of Mazandaran Province, three were selected—one in a mountainous climate, one in a plain area, and one in a coastal region, each from different counties. b Level 2 Sampling: This level pertains to the measurement of variables at the individual level and is related to the variable "attitude towards the effects of ecotourism." One village was selected from each rural district as a sample. The research data were collected using researcher-designed questionnaires on a Likert scale during the spring of 2020, covering 15 villages in eastern Mazandaran Province. Cronbach's alpha test was used to estimate the internal consistency or reliability of the questionnaire, and expert opinions were sought for the face validity of the questionnaires. SPSS software version 22 was employed for data extraction and processing.

Results

The descriptive-analytical results of this study, based on the Inscape model, address fundamental research questions related to eco-tourism in the studied area. The research followed a systematic approach, with specific stages. 1-Current Situation Assessment: This phase examined situational, geographical (topographical, climatic, natural environment), and cultural aspects of the three districts, focusing on key attractions and points of interest. 2-Analysis of the Current Situation: This stage involved analyzing various eco-tourism indicators:

3-Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Most villages produce traditional arts, but local markets for souvenirs are lacking. 4-Transport Infrastructure: Issues include the lack of public transport, insufficient maritime infrastructure, and inadequate rail stations. 5-Accommodation: Modern lodging facilities are mostly unavailable, with a significant reliance on unlicensed rural homes. 6-Hospitality: There is a shortage of traditional dining spaces and forest or mountain restaurants. 7-Eco-tourism Attractions: Recommendations include promoting thermal springs, summer resorts, bird-watching tours, and preserving the Caspian Sea’s natural beauty. 8-Environmental Status: Problems include inadequate sanitation facilities and waste management, though clean drinking water and health centers are present. Recommendations include developing regional handicrafts, improving transportation infrastructure, upgrading accommodation facilities, and enhancing hospitality services. A detailed survey of 325 respondents from 14 villages across three districts analyzed demographic factors and attitudes towards eco-tourism. The results indicate moderate local support for eco-tourism initiatives, with varying levels of understanding and acceptance among different communities. The study highlights the need for comprehensive development and promotion strategies to effectively leverage eco-tourism in these regions.



Conclusion



Eco-tourism represents a unique approach to nature tourism and adventure, emphasizing the preservation of natural heritage and local culture while enhancing the welfare of local communities. Unlike mass tourism, which often leads to environmental degradation and cultural disruption, eco-tourism prioritizes environmental considerations and sustainable development. This study evaluated local communities' awareness in three counties regarding the economic, social, and environmental impacts of eco-tourism, revealing both positive and negative effects. Positively, eco-tourism can generate economic benefits, enhance natural area management, create job opportunities, raise awareness about conservation, and encourage the preservation of traditional lifestyles. Negatively, it can lead to environmental damage, cultural shifts, increased living costs, and greater social and environmental pressures. In Mazandaran Province, eco-tourism is prioritized for sustainable rural development and job creation, aligning with broader economic strategies. However, balancing rural development with the preservation of traditional village character remains a challenge. The effectiveness and stability of the economic system ultimately depend on robust institutional frameworks.

Funding

This article is based on the research project titled "Assessment of Ecotourism in the Rural Areas of Eastern Mazandaran," conducted by the Research Department of Mazandaran University and sponsored by the Provincial Directorate of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Mazandaran.



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