STRENGTHENING LOCAL ECONOMIES THROUGH ECOTOURISM: EVIDENCE FROM BINTANG DISTRICT CENTRAL ACEH PROVINCE, INDONESIA

This study investigates the role of ecotourism in strengthening local economies in Bintang District, Central Aceh by identifying key potentials within natural and socio-cultural resources. It explores how assets such as Lake Laut Tawar, agrobased livelihoods, and community enterprises can drive sustainable economic development. The study analyzes stakeholder collaboration, focusing on governance, participation, and community empowerment. It evaluates contributions to income diversification, employment, and micro-enterprise growth while identifying structural and institutional constraints. The research ultimately proposes integrated and sustainable strategies to support resilient, ecotourism-based local economic development.This study employs a mixed methods approach to examine the contribution of ecotourism to local economic strengthening in Bintang District, Central Aceh. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders to explore governance, collaboration, and community participation. Field observations documented tourism activities, environmental practices, and local economic interactions, with findings analyzed thematically. Quantitative analysis used indicators such as employment, income diversification, enterprise growth, participation rates, and environmental sustainability, supported by secondary data.The integration of these methods ensures triangulation, enhancing validity and providing a comprehensive understanding of ecotourism-driven economic transformation. The findings reveal strong ecotourism potential in Bintang District, particularly around Lake Laut Tawar, supported by rich natural landscapes, biodiversity, agro-tourism, and Gayo cultural heritage. This potential has contributed to emerging income diversification through homestays, culinary enterprises, handicrafts, and local transport services. However, development is constrained by inadequate infrastructure, including accessibility, sanitation, waste management, and digital connectivity. Weak institutional coordination and low community participation further hinder integrated planning and inclusive development. These results highlight the need for improved infrastructure, stronger collaboration, and participatory governance to ensure sustainable local economic transformation.This study concludes that ecotourism in Bintang District, particularly in the Lake Laut Tawar area, holds strong potential to drive local economic strengthening. However, this potential remains underutilized due to inadequate infrastructure and fragmented institutional coordination. Limited community participation further constrains inclusive development and local ownership. The findings highlight the need for integrated strategies combining infrastructure investment, institutional strengthening, and participatory governance. Sustainable ecotourism development requires a balanced approach to economic growth, environmental conservation, and socio-cultural sustainability.