A strategic approach to ecotourism development as a sustainability factor for coastal zones

Coastal zones represent the most ecologically sensitive areas exposed to the intensive pressure of mass tourism. In response to the accompanying degradation of natural resources, ecotourism emerges as a primary instrument for maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental protection. The subject of this review paper is the systematization and analysis of theoretical and practical aspects of strategic ecotourism management under the specific conditions of river coastal areas. The objective of the paper is to provide a critical review of contemporary scientific literature, while the practical application of the analyzed approaches is evaluated through a case study of the Derdap National Park, utilizing SWOT and TOWS analysis to define strategic development directions. By applying the descriptive method and the case study method, the paper highlights the necessity of implementing an integrated approach to coastal zone management. Concluding considerations suggest that controlled tourism valorization, based on determining the carrying capacity of the area and the active involvement of the local community, represents a key factor for long-term sustainability and the preservation of the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Danube region.