Application of Public Participation Geographic Information System in ecotourism development for local community

Abstract

The purpose of ecotourism is to protect the cultural and natural resources, and to benefit the economic development and political empowerment of a local community. This study mainly focuses on establishing a Public Participation Geographic Information System (PPGIS) for use by the local community in ecotourism development planning. Specific objectives of this research include: (1) integrating mobile device with GPS for collecting spatial data about resources, which are then incorporated into a GIS geospatial database; (2) using Google Maps/Google Earth API and JavaScript to design dynamic web pages to facilitate information dissemination; (3) providing dynamic maps, relevant information, and analytical tools to promote public participation in the discussion and planning process for ecotourism development.