Penerapan Prinsip Pariwisata Berkelanjutan Dalam Pengelolaan Destinasi Alam Cot Panggoi Kota Lhokseumawe

Abstract

Sustainable tourism is an approach to destination development that emphasizes a balance between environmental, socio-cultural, and economic aspects. This study aims to analyze the implementation of sustainable tourism principles in the management of the Cot Panggoi natural tourism destination in Lhokseumawe City. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach using observation, interviews, and literature review. The findings indicate that the implementation of sustainable tourism principles in Cot Panggoi remains at an early stage, although several positive initiatives have been undertaken to maintain environmental cleanliness and involve local communities in tourism activities. Community participation is reflected in parking management, culinary businesses, tour guide services, and other local economic activities. However, waste management, vegetation protection, tourism activity control, service quality, marketing, and institutional management still need to be strengthened. The development of Cot Panggoi requires collaboration among local government, communities, destination managers, business actors, and educational institutions through community capacity building, infrastructure improvement, institutional strengthening, and the implementation of transparent and participatory governance. These efforts can support the development of Cot Panggoi as a natural tourism destination that preserves environmental sustainability while generating sustainable social and economic benefits for the surrounding community.