Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 25 ISSUE 2
Written by Liliana ANGHEL, Ramona STOICESCU (ANGHEL)

The purpose of this article is to examine ecotourism's potential as a sustainable model of economic growth in the Danube Delta, beginning with consumer attitudes and comparing them to real-world examples of best practices. The research aims were to identify tourist values and preferences connected to ecotourism, determine the degree of availability for the consumption of sustainable services, and assess the Danube Delta's viability as an ecotourism destination. Methodologically, the study was based on the use of a structured questionnaire, given to a sample of respondents interested in sustainable tourism. The instrument included questions regarding ecotourism values (environmental protection, community involvement, ecological education), travel behaviors, preferences for types of activities and willingness to pay for eco-certified services. The results were statistically analyzed and correlated with concrete examples of ecotourism in the Danube Delta. The results obtained highlight a clear consumer orientation towards responsible tourism: 92% of respondents support environmental protection as a fundamental value, 76% would pay more for ecological services, and 73% are interested in visiting the Delta. Activities such as bird watching, eco-lodging or kayaking were strongly preferred, confirming the relevance of the existing offer in the region. The examples analyzed, sustainable guesthouses, guided tours, community projects, demonstrate the applicability of these preferences in the field. The research conclusions support the idea that ecotourism in the Danube Delta has real potential for scaling and can simultaneously contribute to the conservation of ecosystems and the economic development of local communities. The recommendations aim to strengthen this model through institutional support, digitalization, transparent ecological certification and the promotion of green entrepreneurship as a viable strategy for natural areas with high ecological value.

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