PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ECOTOURİSM İN AZERBAİJAN İN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAİNABİLİTY

In the paper, conditions for the implementation of ecotourism in Azerbaijan in the aspect of the challenges of sustainable development are considered. As an increased interest emerges worldwide in eco-friendly travel, Azerbaijan, with its abundant biodiversity, natural assets, and cultural treasures, has great potential for ecotourism. In the article, the current condition of ecotourism is explored, and the leading ecological sites and territories for future development are identified, reflecting the projects introduced by both the state and the private sector in creating an ecologically safe model of activity. It also tackles major challenges of inadequate infrastructure, limited local awareness, and environmental risks. This study is closely linked to the international conference “Sustainable Tourism: Green Dreams, Global Goals” and is meant to offer policy proposals on how an environmentally sustainable ecotourism might contribute to green growth in the context of the global agenda and its role in establishing Azerbaijan as the prime ecotourism destination in the South Caucasus.