Development of ecological tourism in Sochi destination in 2022 – Municipal Year of Environment

The article is devoted to the prospects for the development of ecological tourism in Russia in general, and in the Sochi destination in particular. Scientific studies related to ecological tourism in specially protected natural areas (PAs) and permissible anthropogenic pressures are analyzed in detail. It was noted that flexible mechanisms for the recreational using of such territories will allow protected areas to receive additional extrabudgetary funding, attract eco-volunteers and the public concerned to solve their problems, also promote the scientific and educational interest of the population. The analysis of information on the tourist portals of the Russian Federation on the objects of natural (ecological) tourism of the Sochi destination has scientific and practical interest. The planned events for its development in the municipal year of ecology by the city Administration (2022) are presented. The unique ecological potential of the region is noted, it allows not only to preserve the natural heritage, but also to use it effectively for the purposes of recreation and tourism. Original proposals have been formulated for the development of ecological tourism in the Sochi destination, concerning methodological, organizational, informational, nature conservation and educational issues.