MOUNTAIN ECOTOURISM SPATIAL PLANNING TOWARDS GREEN MANAGEMENT: THE CASE OF MOUNT LAWU REGION OF INDONESIA

Abstract

Mount Lawu region has abundant resources consisting of diverse flora and fauna which have the potentials to be developed as ecotourism attractions. It has also cultural sites containing local wisdom. As the area is a fragile ecosystem, it needs appropriate planning for green management and development. This research aims at: (1) exploring the planning concept for managing and developing ecotourism in the region; (2) analyzing the spatial distribution of ecotourism facilities to support sustainable management, and (3) creating a foundation for designing a new spatial planning model for ecotourism development in Mount Lawu region. Mapping method using geographic information system (GIS), spatial analysis, and interactive analysis were employed as analytical lenses. Research findings reveal that ecotourism management planning in Mount Lawu region has not optimized the function of spaces. Even though ecotourism has developed in the region for several years, the appropriate usage of spaces has not been taken into account by stakeholders. Essential facilities of ecotourism including space for interpretation have not been provided. This study highlights the significance of spatial planning to manage and develop sustainable mountain ecotourism in Mount Lawu region by mapping out the resources and facilities to support planning and decision making. It is in line with several models proposed by some researchers which suggest the importance of analyzing the available spaces for sustainable ecotourism management and development.