Community based ecotourism management to strengthen environmental ethics and supports sustainable development in Pelalawan district, Indonesia

Abstract

Pelalawan District has several natural attractiveness and indigenous knowledge potentially to be developed as ecotourism. The community-based ecotourism management (CBEM) by utilize indigenous knowledge as a part of tourist attractions is one of ways to improve environmental ethics and achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper was prepared to examine the potential of indigenous CBEM in Pelalawan District. Secondary data was used compiled from relevant literatures of previous research or provided by authorized agency. The data analysis method carryout by comparative descriptive interpretative qualitative analysis. It identified the gaps between the existing condition of CBEM versus standards. A conceptual framework and CBEM strategy were arranged to eliminate current management gaps. The analysis result shows that current indigenous CBEM yet optimal. It shows by the lack of management dimension aspect, includes: tenurial license, local ecotourism norm, land use planning, marketing, supporting regulation, environmental education, management capacity, infrastructures development, and business incentives. The strategies to eliminates CBEM gaps, as follows: (1) Integrated planning; (2) Feasibility analysis of village own enterprise (BMUDes); (3) Capacity development of staffs and community; (4) Enhances marketing system; (5) Accountability of management; (6) Integrated environmental education curriculum; (7) Continuous improvement; and (8) Supporting regulation. The research result was recommended as one of references for policy makers to develop indigenous CBEM planning for strengthen environmental ethics and SDGs achievement as integrated manner. Authors recommend to future researchers would be expanded the scopes of the literatures and collect primary data for its accuracy improvements.