Concepts, models and features of the development of ecological tourism in the Carpathian region of Ukraine

Abstract

The main concepts of ecological tourism are analyzed. Ecotourism models in the world were considered, and the most optimal option for the Carpathian region of Ukraine was proposed. Since the recreational and touristic potential of the Carpathian region is almost limitless for the possibilities of organizing ecological tourism. Ecological tourism is not a separate species, it is a direction of development of the tourism industry, which is based on the principles of sustainable development. Ukraine has significant tourist and recreational potential, and with the right approach, ecological tourism can become one of the locomotives for filling the state treasury.

The strengths and weaknesses of the development of ecological tourism in the Carpathian region are given. The strengths are: the presence of naturally protected territories and objects, preserved environment, unique flora and fauna, specialized structures and departments have been created in national parks, forestry companies that are engaged in the arrangement of ecological trails, the favorable geographical location of the region facilitates the creation of interregional and international hiking tours and routes, active cooperation between protected areas and public organizations in the development and implementation of international technical assistance projects.

Weaknesses are also identified: there is no uniform marking system of eco-trails in each park, low quality of equipped stops and tourist shelters on eco-trails, lack of the necessary number of instructors, lack of comprehensive information on the possibilities of ecotourism in the region, non-compliance by tourists with the rules of staying in protected areas, a small number of tourist enterprises that offer eco-friendly tours.

An analysis of the main problematic issues was made, and the ways of their solution were identified.