Ecotourism as a mechanism to achieve a green economy in Iran
Subject Areas : environmental economy
فروغ شادمان لاهیجی
1
*
,
مریم جعفری گلویک
2
1 -
2 -
Keywords:
Abstract :
Ecotourism seeks to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment. Green economy as an economic system is based on human welfare and social equality that seeks to significantly reduce environmental risks. The present study surveys one of the specialized potentials of tourism in the country- ecotourism- to apply the principles of this development model. Ecotourism with natural management of a tourist area can create jobs without destructive and exploitative actions in nature, which will be beneficial for the region in the future. Also, ecotourism, as a possible potential can encourage the community to extensively implement green economy, in addition to promoting environmental awareness and providing benefits and financial empowerment of local people. Therefore, the present study, identifies the opportunities and threats of external factors and the strengths and weaknesses of internal factors for the development of ecotourism as a driving force of green economy in the country meanwhile examining the existing national and international background using SWOT analysis. The results indicate the need to take advantage of opportunities such as attracting regional, international cooperation and foreign investment by taking principles advantage of biodiversity and geographical location in the country along with the participation of local communities in decision-making, job creation and earning money. Therefore, in addition to the role that the tourism boom plays in the development of a green economy, it will also performs a significant role in the country's GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and foreign exchange income of the country.