A RESEARCH ON ECOTOURISM IN TÜRKİYE: CASE OF OSMANIYE ZORKUN PLATEAU

Authors : Ömer Eker, Yusuf Murat Dayan

Pages : 544-559

Doi:10.32328/turkjforsci.1670973

View : 148 | Download : 324

Publication Date : 2025-10-27

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study explores the ecotourism potential of the Zorkun Plateau, situated within the boundaries of Osmaniye Province, in Türkiye. As tourism continues to develop across the country, ecotourism has emerged as a significant alternative form of tourism, offering both economic opportunities and environmental benefits. This research examines the ecological, cultural, and recreational values of the Zorkun Plateau in the context of ecotourism, identifies the key challenges it faces, and evaluates strategies for its sustainable utilization. In this study, the ecotourism potential of the Zorkun Plateau was assessed through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. For the quantitative component, participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique, and data were collected through a structured survey. A questionnaire including 25 questions was applied to a sample of 388 individuals. Based on the survey responses and interviews conducted with both local residents and visitors, the plateau’s touristic appeal, existing infrastructure, and the level of awareness regarding ecotourism were evaluated. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 27.0.1). The findings indicate that the Zorkun Plateau possesses a significant potential for ecotourism and sustainable development; however, this potential remains underutilized due to deficiencies in infrastructure, limited transportation accessibility, and insufficient environmental awareness among participants.
Keywords : Ekoturizm, Zorkun Yaylası, ki-kare, anket tekniği

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