The Role of Supporting Ecotourism Development and Its Effects on Local Communities, A case study of Rural Areas in Eastern Mazandaran Province

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

2 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

Abstract

ABSTRACT
The primary objective of this study is to examine the role of support for ecotourism development and its impacts on rural areas in eastern Mazandaran province. This research follows a quantitative approach and employs a survey method with a descriptive-explanatory perspective. The statistical population consists of three rural districts, Behshahr, Neka, and Galugah, where, based on Cochran’s formula, 384 individuals were selected using a cluster sampling method. Data were collected through researcher-designed questionnaires based on a Likert scale and analyzed using SPSS software (version 22). The findings indicate that the local community is highly positive toward ecotourism. They are well aware of ecotourism initiatives' social, economic, and environmental consequences and recognize both the positive and negative impacts. Furthermore, the level of community support for ecotourism development is remarkably high. Lastly, based on the DAS model, the feasibility of ecotourism development in the region is significant. The evolving nature of tourism necessitates that destinations adapt to these changes for their survival. Recognizing and responding strategically to environmental transformations is crucial for their sustainability. More than ever, these destinations require effective strategic and interactive planning with their surroundings. Those that can effectively seize emerging opportunities while mitigating potential threats will have a promising future in attracting tourists.
Extended Abstract
Introduction
In one definition, ecotourism is considered a tool for protecting natural areas through income generation, environmental education, and local people's participation (both in the decision-making process related to appropriate development and in the field of related benefits). The main objective of this study is to investigate the role of supporting ecotourism development and its effects on rural areas in eastern Mazandaran province.
 
Methodology
This study is a quantitative research and was conducted using a survey method and a descriptive-explanatory approach. The statistical population includes three rural districts of Behshahr, Neka, and Galugah in eastern Mazandaran province. For sampling, 384 people were selected based on the Cochran formula and cluster sampling method. The basis of clustering in this study is to pay attention to the criterion that a region that is partly in the coastal area and a large part in the mountainous area, and at the same time, also benefits from the beautiful attractions of the plain area. At the same time, according to the level of measurement of variables, sampling was carried out at 2 levels village and individual. A) Level 1 sampling; in the first stage, out of a total of 14 rural districts located in the east of Mazandaran province, 3 rural districts were selected, one rural district in the mountainous climatic regions, one rural district in the plain regions, and one rural district in the coastal regions, and they are from three different counties. B) Level 2 sampling; at this level, it was related to the level of measurement of variables at the individual level and was related to the variable "attitude towards the effects of ecotourism." One village was selected as a sample from each rural district. Research information was collected through researcher-made questionnaires on a Likert scale in the spring of 2019 at 15 villages in the eastern regions of Mazandaran province. Data were collected using researcher-made questionnaires on a Likert scale, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22 software.
Results and discussion
The results of the study show that the attitude of the local community towards ecotourism is quite positive, and the local community is aware of the social, economic, and environmental consequences of the ecotourism project. Also, the local community's awareness of the positive and negative consequences of the ecotourism project is high. The local community's support level for the ecotourism development project has also been assessed as very high. In addition, the possibility of developing ecotourism based on the Das model in the region is significant. The research findings in the section of demographic variables (age, gender, marital status, level of education, employment status and monthly income) indicate differences in some of these variables. For example, the level of support for ecotourism development in the two counties of Behshahr and Galugah varies according to age. Young people support ecotourism development more than other groups. Neka County's level of support for ecotourism development varies according to education. Through education and access to more information, young people are more sensitive to environmental issues and see ecotourism as a way to economic development and conservation of natural resources.
 
Conclusion
The results of this study indicate the importance and necessity of paying attention to strategic planning in the development of ecotourism in rural areas of eastern Mazandaran province. Given the positive attitude of the local community and their awareness of the various consequences of ecotourism, it can be concluded that the cooperation and participation of the local community in tourism development plans will be a key factor for the success of these programs. In addition, the continuous changes in the tourism industry require flexibility and the ability of local communities to adapt to new conditions. These communities must identify emerging opportunities and existing threats and exploit these opportunities with appropriate planning. Finally, tourism destinations that can exploit these changes well and manage threats can have a bright future in attracting tourists. Therefore, it is suggested that tourism policymakers and planners pay special attention to strengthening infrastructure, educating local communities, and creating cooperation networks among stakeholders to use the potential of ecotourism efficiently.
 
Funding
There is no funding support.
Authors’ Contribution
All of the authors approved thecontent of the manuscript and agreed on all aspects of the work declaration of competing interest none.
 
Conflict of Interest
Authors declared no conflict of interest.
 
Acknowledgments
We are grateful to all the scientific consultants of this paper.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Human Geography Research
Volume 57, Issue 3
November 2025
Pages 141-158

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