ASSESSMENT OF TOURISM ACTIVITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON ECOSYSTEMS IN HA LONG BAY WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE SITE

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, has become a globally renowned tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, the rapid growth of tourism poses significant challenges to managing and preserving this heritage site. The study reveals that tourism activities have notable impacts on the ecosystem, with 32.5 % reporting minor effects on mangroves, 36.4 % on coral reefs, and 34.4 % on beach activities. Despite progress in waste management and biodiversity conservation, Ha Long Bay's ecosystem continues to face negative impacts from environmental pollution caused by boats, tourist waste, and pressures on endemic flora and fauna. The lack of sufficient financial resources, technological capabilities, and inadequate management measures have hindered effective conservation efforts. The research highlights the critical role of local communities and tourists in mitigating these negative impacts and emphasizes the need for increased investment, stringent management, and heightened awareness to ensure the sustainable protection of this natural heritage site.