Ecotourism Implementation, Practices, And Sustainability

@article{1717734,
      author = {Maynen G. Lubuguin, Anelyn A. Janaban, DM, Erly M. Martir, Ph.D., DM},
      title = {Ecotourism Implementation, Practices, And Sustainability},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {11},
      pages = {1730-1751},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1717734.pdf},
      abstract = {This study assessed the extent of ecotourism implementation, practices, and sustainability in the Province of Antique, Philippines, during 2024. Data were gathered from 135 ecotourism destination personnel in both northern and southern Antique through convenience sampling. A researcher‑made questionnaire, adapted from existing literature and validated using the Good and Scates criteria, was employed, with reliability pilot‑tested among ecotourism destinations personnel in the province of Iloilo. Statistical tools such as frequency count, percentage, mean, rank, Chi‑Square, Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H, and Spearman’s rho were applied, with computations processed through SPSS at the 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that most personnel were doctorate degree holders, engaged primarily in nature‑based activities, concentrated in northern Antique, and supported by long‑established enterprises. Ecotourism implementation was rated “To a Great Extent,” with waste management, tourist participation, and enforcement of regulations as the strongest indicators. Practices were rated “Mostly Practiced,” prioritizing conservation, habitat protection, and tree planting, while artisan support, eco‑transport, and low‑impact accommodations received less emphasis. Sustainability was rated “High,” with reinvestment in conservation, waste disposal, and community awareness as the strongest measures. Significant differences in ecotourism implementation and sustainability were observed across educational attainment, type of tourism activity, and years of business operation, whereas differences in ecotourism practices appeared only when classified according to length of service. Correlation analysis confirmed that implementation, practices, and sustainability were positively interconnected, with implementation emerging as the strongest driver of sustainability.},
      keywords = {Ecotourism Implementation, Practices, and Sustainability},
      month = {May},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1717734}
  }