Attitudes of the local residents towards the possibilities of ecoturism development in the area of the Special Nature Reserve 'Deliblato Sands'

Abstract

Ecotourism is a form of tourism, increasingly developed within protected natural areas due to its ability to minimize negative impacts on the environment and contribute to the preservation and improvement of natural values. In addition to natural potentials, scientific literature emphasizes the importance of the involvement of the local community in ecotourism development, through which multiple socioeconomic benefits for the local population are obtained. Deliblato Sands is an area protected as a Special Nature Reserve, thanks to its specific morphological features, rich biodiversity, rare species and exceptional landscape values. This research examines the attitudes of the inhabitants of the municipalities of Vrsac, Bela Crkva, Kovin, Alibunar and Pancevo, on whose territories the borders of SNR "Deliblato Sands" are located, about the development of ecotourism in Deliblato Sands, its impact on the environment and community and readiness of local population for direct involvement in ecotourism development. The attitudes of 339 respondents were collected through an online survey, and the results of the research were presented by descriptive analysis. It was determined that the inhabitants of municipalities in South Banat have a positive attitude towards the development of ecotourism in the area of SNR "Deliblato Sands", and a proactive approach to direct involvement in further ecotourism development of this area.