An Empirical Study on the Coupling of Wetland Ecotourism and Resource–Environmental Carrying Capacity in Dongting Lake Wetland

This study explores the coupling relationship between wetland ecotourism and resource–environmental carrying capacity in the Dongting Lake region. By constructing a comprehensive index system and utilizing a coupling coordination degree model, we analyzed the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics across 24 districts and counties from 2014 to 2022. The results indicate the following: (1) The quality of both ecotourism and environmental carrying capacity has steadily improved, though significant regional disparities remain. (2) The coupling coordination degree exhibits a “high in the center, low in the periphery” spatial pattern, showing a positive correlation between ecotourism levels and environmental capacity. (3) The region comprises three development types: balanced coordination, well-matched, and lagging. These findings provide a scientific basis for optimizing ecotourism pathways and achieving high-quality regional sustainable development.