Environmental Challenges in the Development of Ecotourism in Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia has great potential in the tourism sector, with its natural beauty serving as an attraction for both local and international tourists. This beautiful natural potential is an asset in the development of ecotourism. The tourism sector can boost national revenue and drive growth in other sectors, especially in the creative industries, trade, and services. The existence of the Tourism Law and its derivative regulations supports ecotourism development. Ecotourism is an environmentally-friendly type of tourism that prioritizes conservation and sustainable development. Ecotourism development needs to consider three aspects—social, economic, and environmental equitably and fairly. However, the current development of ecotourism villages often focuses more on economic growth, neglecting sociocultural and environmental aspects. Through normative juridical research, this study will examine tourism regulations in supporting ecotourism and analyze environmental challenges related to ecotourism development in Indonesia. This study aims to understand the government's efforts in supporting the local economy while simultaneously protecting the sustainable environment. Additionally, this research seeks to identify the challenges in ecotourism development and provide recommendations to the government so that tourism development aligns with the concept of ecotourism. In developing ecotourism, it can improve environmental quality and avoid causing environmental problems.