Proposal, indicators linked to tourism sustainability in Pastaza, Ecuador

Abstract

On a global level, important transformations in tourism are taking place caused by different social, demographic, environmental, economic, technological and management trends, which will undoubtedly condition the development of tourism in the future. These trends are already manifested in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region. Adapting to the changes, in turn, means for Amazonian tourist destinations, working with a strategic and prospective vision, and it will be necessary for them to know their ability to adapt and react to the changes.

The expectations that have been set in tourism for the development of the province of Pastaza, Ecuador involves addressing the problem of sustainability in order to preserve the natural and cultural heritage, which could be affected by the impacts generated by tourism activities. The objective of the research is to generate a proposal for a system of tourism sustainability indicators for the Pastaza province.

 This research uses a methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative analysis, part of the conceptualization of tourism and its sustainability and the application of indicators. It proposes 15 indicators for the evaluation of human activities and environmental issues that could evaluate sustainability in areas of tourist use of Pastaza. Indicators, which are characterized by being; methodologically structured, scientifically valid, simple application and disclosure; and, adjustable to the territoriality of different Amazonian tourist destinations with similar characteristics.