THE DYNAMICS OF ECOTOURISM: EVOLUTION, DISRUPTION, AND REGENERATIVE PATHWAYS IN THE 21ST CENTURY (2001-2025)

Abstract

This article offers a comprehensive review of ecotourism's evolution, challenges, and transformative pathways during the first quarter of the 21st century (2001-2025). Rooted in principles of responsible travel, community engagement, and the circular economy, ecotourism initially experienced significant growth until 2019, driven by increasing environmental awareness and the desire to mitigate the impacts of mass tourism. The COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021), however, caused unprecedented disruption, revealing industry fragilities while simultaneously accelerating digital adoption and fostering a critical shift towards resilience and regenerative practices. Analyzing the economic, socio-cultural, environmental, and technological dimensions, this documentary study reveals that while ecotourism significantly contributes to local economies and conservation, it faces persistent challenges such as overtourism, inequitable benefit distribution, and environmental footprint concerns. The post-COVID era (2021-2025) is marked by uneven recovery, sustained demand for nature-based experiences, and a growing adoption of regenerative tourism philosophies aimed at actively restoring natural and social capital. Future success depends on balancing conservation with development, ensuring genuine community participation, integrating technology responsibly, and embedding circular-economy principles to foster a truly sustainable and equitable ecotourism industry for generations to come.

Keywords: Ecotourism, Sustainable Tourism, Regenerative Tourism, Regenerative Tourism, Environmental Conservation