Evaluation of the Green Development Status in Mountainous Scenic Area Based on the Tourism Ecological Footprint Model

This study employs the Tourism Ecological Footprint Model to meticulously evaluate the green development status of mountainous scenic areas, specifically focusing on the Wenfeng Mountain Scenic Area. The overarching aim is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the ecological impact stemming from tourism activities. The evaluation encompasses complex calculations and analyses of the ecological footprint, ecological carrying capacity, and ecological surplus. In the case study of Wenfeng Mountain Scenic Area, the findings indicate a notable state of ecological surplus in the current stage of tourism development. The specific quantitative results reveal a surplus, indicating that the ecological impact of tourism activities is well within the sustainable carrying capacity of the region. This implies that despite substantial tourism activities, the ecological environment of the Wenfeng Mountain Scenic Area remains effectively protected and maintained. The ecological surplus signifies a balance between tourism development and the preservation of the local ecosystem, which is crucial for the sustainable development of the region. Moreover, this study delves into the nuances of the ecological components, providing detailed breakdowns of the ecological footprints attributed to various tourism-related activities, including accommodation, transportation, dining, sightseeing, and shopping. These specifics offer a nuanced understanding of the ecological dynamics associated with diverse tourism-related factors. The meticulous assessment of Wenfeng Mountain Scenic Area's green development status has several significant implications. Decision-makers can draw insights into the delicate balance that is required between tourism promotion and environmental conservation. The ecological surplus suggests that current practices align with sustainable development goals andprovide a positive model for similar regions. However, this study also draws attention to some critical limitations in the Tourism Ecological Footprint Model. The detailed results highlight challenges related to model applicability, data collection, and calculation methods, stressing the need for further refinement and validation. Acknowledging these limitations is crucial for refining the model and ensuring its robust application in diverse geographical contexts. In conclusion, this study delivers a granular understanding of the green development status of mountainous scenic areas, specifically the Wenfeng Mountain Scenic Area. The detailed results serve as a rich reference for decision-makers and researchers, offering new insights into specific aspects of tourism-related ecological impacts. As avenues for future research, refining the evaluation indicators and improving the data collection and analysis methodologies will be pivotal for advancing the precision and reliability of green development assessments.