INTEGRATING DISASTER MITIGATION AND ECOTOURISM: A MODEL OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TURTLE CONSERVATION IN NAGARI AMPIANG PARAK

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Mira Hasti Hasmira, Lucky Zamzami, Junardi Harahap, Aprizon Putra, Erianjoni, Adri Febrianto, Hanafi Saputra

2025 Geojournal of Tourism and Geosites Vol. 59 Issue 2 Article Cited by 2 Quartile

Abstract

This research aims to develop a disaster mitigation-based ecotourism model in Nagari Ampiang Parak, integrating ecotourism management, turtle conservation, and local entrepreneurship with disaster mitigation strategies. The research addresses the need to simultaneously enhance community resilience and economic stability in disaster-prone coastal regions. A mixed - methods approach combined ethnographic qualitative studies with quantitative data collection through structured questionnaires. Qualitative methods included in-depth interviews with community leaders, ecotourism stakeholders, and residents, while quantitative data focused on disaster awareness, economic benefits, and conservation participation. The research spanned one year, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of community practices and outcomes. This research develops a disaster mitigation-based ecotourism model in Nagari Ampiang Parak by integrating turtle conservation, local entrepreneurship, and environmental management. The findings show that 57% of respondents are aware of disaster risks, and 53% participate in preparedness activities. Ecotourism and conservation involve 53%-57% of the community, with mangrove planting and turtle protection as key strategies. Economically, 50%-55% of respondents feel ecotourism increases income, new businesses, and job opportunities. Turtle conservation is also seen to protect biodiversity (65%) and contribute to disaster mitigation (63%). This model strengthens community resilience by combining environmental sustainability with local economic empowerment in disaster-prone areas. The research also shows that community empowerment through leadership roles, social cohesion, and active participation in conservation strengthens resilience and sustainability. Environmental efforts such as mangrove planting and turtle protection offer dual benefits for ecosystems and disaster reduction while increasing public awareness, strengthening local capacity, and supporting environmental education programs. The research concludes that the proposed ecotourism model boosts community resilience by balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. This integrated approach reduces disaster vulnerability and fosters sustainable livelihoods through innovative and entrepreneurial practices. The findings highlight the potential of this model to serve as a blueprint for other coastal regions facing similar challenges. © 2025 Editura Universitatii din Oradea. All rights reserved.

Affiliations

Universitas Negeri Padang, Department of Sociology, Padang, Indonesia; Universitas Andalas, Department of Anthropology, Padang, Indonesia; Universitas Padjadjaran, Department of Anthropology, Bandung, Indonesia; National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia