Sustainable tourism in protected areas of Serbia | Održivi turizam u zaštićenim područjima Srbije

The notion of sustainable tourism includes ecological, economic and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development, as well as suitable balance which has to be established between these three dimensions. in accordance with the mentioned, sustainable development involves optimal use and conservation of natural resources which are key factors of tourism development, maintaining basic ecological processes. In addition, sustainable tourism respects socio-cultural identity of a community, conservation of cultural heritage and traditional values. Economic component of sustainable tourism provides for long-term economic activity, creating socio-economic benefits which are evenly distributed to all stakeholders, including employment and opportunity to gain revenues and reduce poverty. Protected natural goods of Serbia are the main ecological and touristic potential of Serbia, and are mainly located in mountain and hilly regions. These include national parks, parks of nature, special nature reserves, as well as landscapes of special characteristics. The attractiveness of protected areas as prevailing touristic destinations is rooted in the fact that they are examples of well-conserved natural ecosystems, vivid landscapes, representative geo-morphological, hydrographic, botanic and/or other characteristics of great recreational values. The main props of tourism in protected areas are national parks, having a share of 10% of Serbian tourism. The different forms of sustainable tourism is possible to be developed in protected areas in accordance with the prescribed protection regimes. The increased interest for sustainable tourism and ecotourism is reflected in a growing wave of social concern for the quality of the environment and possible tourism impacts. This concern is reasonable because according to some estimates, the need for stays in clean nature will in close future be equal to the need to provide healthy food.