Evaluation of ecological tourism potential and local people's perception and attitudes for ecological tourism: İbradı sample

In this study, the ecological tourism potential of İbradı district with its natural, historical and cultural riches and the perception and attitudes of local people towards ecological tourism were examined between 2020 and 2021 years. Ecotourism defines positive environmental ethics as contributing to maintaining the integrity of the ecosystem and host communities. İbradı, one of the oldest settlements with its natural, cultural and historical features, [Button Houses, Erymna Ancient City, İbradı Cemeteries, Arapastık Chestnut Tree, Altınbeşik Cave National Park, Snowdrop Flower and "İbradı Anasonu" (Pimpinella ibradiensis), "Gökçe Tülüşah" (Rhaponticoides gokceoglui) etc. It consists of coming together of endemic plants. The sample of the study was formed from 391 people from the local population who live in the district center of İbradı and its associated neighborhoods. The sample formula of Yamane (2001) was used in the calculation of the sample belonging to the study. The perception and attitudes of the local population towards ecological tourism were analyzed using the data survey and interview method. 391 questionnaire forms were analyzed with SPSS 20.00 program. The data obtained from the research and the hypotheses created were measured by t and ANOVA tests. Validity and reliability analyzes were made for both scales and in this context, explanatory factor analysis and Cronbach Alpha coefficients were examined. As a result of the study, it was revealed that when the education level increased and benefited from ecotourism, the local people displayed a positive attitude towards the development of ecotourism and supported the development of ecotourism activities in the region. In addition, it has been found that the marital status of the local people has an effect on the negative perceptions and attitudes of ecotourism. The research findings provide suggestions to tourism planners, destination management organizations and academicians studying in the context of tourism literature.