Determinant of importance-performance and willingness to participate in Komodo adaptive conservation programs

Abstract

This study delves into the evaluation of the Komodo dragons Adaptive Conservation Program (KACP) at Komodo National Park in Indonesia through Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). It aims to understand how the programs components align with community priorities and assess its effectiveness. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research analyzes community perceptions of KACP’s critical elements, spanning eco-tourism initiatives to environmental protection strategies. The community is categorized into local advocates, eco-tourism enthusiasts, and eco-community harmonizers, identifying how each group perceives and interacts with various facets of KACP. The findings reveal significant differences in perceptions of importance and performance among these groups, providing insights into areas of strength and those needing improvement. Additionally, the study includes an analysis of demographic influences on these perceptions through Logit and Probit models, aiming to understand the impacts across different community segments. The results highlight the necessity for an adaptive and responsive design in conservation efforts, considering community expectations and ecological impacts. Despite offering comprehensive insights, the study acknowledges limitations in the demographic scope and suggests future research directions, such as longitudinal studies and an expanded analysis of variables. These findings offer critical guidance for policymakers and conservation practitioners to enhance conservation programs’ effectiveness and community alignment, emphasizing the need to adapt to the challenges and changes introduced by KACP.