Advancing Agricultural Tourism and Environmental Conservation: A Digital Approach to Presenting Changxing Tuying Wetland's Cultural Heritage

Abstract

The Changxing Tuying wetland, a gem in the Huzhou wetland cultural heritage system, boasts a rich history and ecological diversity. This paper delves into the essence of the Changxing Tuying wetland culture, tracing its origins and the evolution of its distinct cultural resources. By integrating principles of botany and ecology with visual aesthetics, we explore an innovative approach that merges digital technology with cultural tourism to both showcase and protect this unique ecological site. The focus of our study is twofold: to highlight the potential of digital means in enhancing agricultural tourism and to underscore the importance of environmental conservation in maintaining the wetland’s ecological balance. We adopt a strategy that not only emphasizes the cultural heritage of the Changxing Tuying Wetland but also advocates for its ecological protection through sustainable tourism practices. Empirical results from our analysis on the impact of digitalization on both heritage and tourism provide compelling evidence of its benefits. The interaction term between digitalization and cultural identity yields a coefficient of 0.242 (p-value = 0.025<0.05), indicating a significant positive impact. Similarly, the interaction between digitalization and cultural heritage presents a coefficient of 0.201 (p-value = 0.013<0.05), also signifying a positive effect. These findings suggest that digitalization not only enhances the appeal of the wetland as a tourist destination but also plays a crucial role in promoting its ecological conservation and high-quality development. This study offers valuable insights into the synergistic relationship between digital technology, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental conservation. It demonstrates that digitalization can be a powerful tool in promoting sustainable agricultural tourism, thereby contributing to the broader objectives of environmental stewardship and cultural heritage conservation. The successful case of Changxing Tuying wetland sets a precedent for other Chinese wetlands, providing a model for cultural conservation and inheritance in the digital age