Sustainable Ecotourism Development Model in the Areas of the Greater Mekong Subregion: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review explores the sustainable ecotourism development model within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), focusing on Cambodia, China (Yunnan Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region), Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, aims to assess the main driving factors of ecotourism development and ecotourism’s environmental, socio-cultural, and economic impacts in the GMS. This systematic review systematically evaluates literature published between 2002 and 2024 using Scopus and Google Scholar databases and employs thematic analysis to evaluate and analyze the data extracted from relevant literature systematically. The research addresses the question of the factors and impacts of ecotourism development in the GMS, focusing on the documented environmental impacts of ecotourism projects, the effects on local communities and cultural heritage, and the economic benefits and challenges. The findings reveal ecotourism’s potential for fostering sustainable development while highlighting the need for strategic alignment with sustainable tourism development to optimize benefits and mitigate adverse effects. The study provides actionable insights and evidence-based recommendations for enhancing the GMS ecotourism model, aiming to inspire further research and practical application in the region’s sustainable development efforts.