Green Tourism as a Strategy for Sustainable Tourism Development in Gunungkidul

Gunungkidul, an administrative region situated in the southeastern portion of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is celebrated due to its abundant natural scenery and cultural legacy. However, the rapid advancement of tourism has caused difficulties in achieving ecological stability. This study aimed to explore the capacity of environmentally conscious tourism as a plan to harmonize the increase in tourism with the safeguarding of the environment in Gunungkidul. This research employs a descriptive qualitative methodology and scrutinizes presentday tourism customs, local people’s participation, and conservation endeavors. The results emphasize crucial strategies intended to promote environmentally sound tourism, such as eco-friendly amenities, refuse handling, and safeguarding habitats. The study also draws attention to the role of interested parties—the authorities, regional enterprises, and travelers—in nurturing environmentally conscious tourism. These findings suggest that incorporating the concepts of ecological tourism can contribute to protecting the innate allure of Gunungkidul while simultaneously bolstering the expansion of the local economy. A cooperative tactic is indispensable to guarantee the perpetuation of Gunungkidul’s cultural and natural assets for successive inhabitants.