Biodiversity tourism in production-conservation landscapes: stakeholder perspectives on high conservation value areas in oil palm plantations

Abstract

Purpose Conservation spaces embedded within the production landscapes such as high conservation value (HCV) areas in oil palm plantations have traditionally been managed for biodiversity conservation, yet their potential as sites for biodiversity tourism remains underexplored. They are mostly approached as compliance requirements to meet sustainability certification standards. To address this overlooked opportunity, this study explores stakeholder perceptions of biodiversity tourism opportunities within HCV areas. Design/methodology/approach Employing qualitative interpretive design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 informants (plantation managers, local governments, communities and tourism operators). Data were analysed inductively using the Gioia methodology. Findings Three interrelated dimensions emerged: socio-economic value creation for communities, ecological stewardship and conservation awareness and corporate legitimacy and innovation for plantation companies. The findings demonstrate that biodiversity tourism is interpreted differently by stakeholder groups according to their institutional responsibilities, conservation objectives and livelihood priorities. Challenges persist, including limited infrastructure, lack of governance frameworks and risks of ecological disturbance. Originality/value The study contributes a stakeholder-based conceptual understanding of biodiversity tourism within production-conservation landscapes, extending discussions of multifunctional landscapes beyond conventional protected areas. Through the perspectives of multi-stakeholders, this study highlights how HCV areas are being reinterpreted and negotiated as socio-ecological biodiversity tourism destinations, instead of positioning the areas solely as conservation compliance zones. This study also shows how nature-based tourism can evolve through the intersection of conservation, community interests and corporate sustainability strategies.