Work

Geoparks and the Development of Ecotourism: A Systematic Synthesis of Research Using Bibliometrix and PRISMA Approaches

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a systematic literature review combined with a bibliometric analysis of ecotourism within geoparks. A dataset of 194 scientific publications was retrieved from seven academic databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Dimensions, Nature Journals, SpringerLink, Taylor & Francis, and CABI, covering the period 2010–2025. The study followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. Automated procedures were employed, including an integrated R-based approach for bibliographic record merging and deduplication using an automated method, and an automated IF function-based screening process. The results reveal a growing trend in ecotourism-related research within geoparks. The most influential publications primarily focus on visitor motivations and preferences, ecotourism products and visitor experiences, and community-based ecotourism, as well as conservation, environmental education, and sustainable geopark management. While geotourism continues to occupy a central position in geopark development, the findings suggest that ecotourism can complement geotourism by promoting environmental responsibility, conservation awareness, community participation, and the broader sustainable development objectives of geopark territories.

Source: Forests

DOI: 10.3390/f17091035

Authors: Ștefan Dezsi, Judith Nyulas, Adrian Niță, Alpár Horváth, Ciprian-Sandu Moldovan, Cristina Bolog

Institution: Babeș-Bolyai University

Language: English

Topic: Geotourism and Geoheritage Conservation

Subfield: Geology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funder: Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai