Introducing an economic impact platform to navigate cruise value-added chain with environmental considerations

Abstract

Economic impacts have been used to address the value of market players; however, there are some limitations. For example, the existing economic impact tools may not accurately capture the contribution of the cruise industry and the value added from the extended supply chain. Similarly, the impact studies in the literature also did not have the capability to assess relevant impacts to stakeholders, communities nearby, and/or to the natural habitats in the region. To fix it, we proposed a measurement for sustainable cruise tourism and/or responsible cruising. This study developed a theoretical economic impact framework and quantitative metrics for cruise activities and the value-added service supply chain associated with it. Under this framework, we explored conceptually how environmental responsibility and social awareness, fostering responsible tourism and sustainable cruising, can be included in the impact calculation.