Tourism Activities in Moc Chau and Emerging Issues for the Natural Environment

Abstract

This article analyzes the current situation of tourism activities and the emerging issues concerning the natural environment in Muong Sang Ward, Moc Chau Township, Son La Province. In recent years, community-based tourism, agricultural–rural experiential tourism, and leisure tourism have expanded significantly, generating economic benefits and livelihood opportunities for local residents. However, this growth has also resulted in adverse impacts on the natural environment, including increased solid waste, water pollution, soil degradation, and transformations of ecological landscapes at several tourist sites. Based on these empirical findings, the article proposes solutions aimed at advancing sustainable tourism development that ensures a balanced relationship between socio-economic growth and the stewardship of ecological systems.