ECOTOURISM TRANSITIONS (2001-2025): FROM DISRUPTION TO REGENERATIVE PATHWAYS AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/tmsr.2025.6Keywords:
Regenerative Tourism, Circular Economy, Community Resilience, Smart Tourism, Ecotourism DynamicsAbstract
This documentary research comprehensively analyzes the evolution of global ecotourism from 2001 to 2025, synthesizing economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions. The study delineates three distinct phases: the pre-pandemic era of rapid growth and overtourism concerns; the COVID-19 crisis, which exposed systemic fragilities while accelerating digital adoption and domestic market shifts; and the post-pandemic recovery. The analysis reveals a critical paradigm shift in the latter phase, moving beyond traditional sustainable development toward Regenerative Tourism. This emerging model prioritizes the active restoration of natural and social capital, integrating Circular Economy principles and smart technology to address persistent inequalities. Results indicate that while ecotourism remains a vital economic driver, its future viability hinges on transcending mere conservation to foster deep community resilience. The study concludes that successful adaptation requires harmonizing high-tech innovations with local wisdom and enforcing rigorous policies. By mapping these transformative pathways, this review provides a foundational framework for policymakers and stakeholders to construct a robust, equitable ecotourism industry capable of navigating future global uncertainties.
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