Benefits For Local Communities Research Articles

Working Paper 53: Good governance and the just transition

There is broad agreement that ensuring a just energy transition is key for achieving the trust and support from citizens needed to succeed with the green transition and the COP28 goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030. This paper discusses the concept of a just transition, with a particular focus on the importance of achieving a transition that benefits both local communities and society at large. It examines the governance and corruption challenges that could jeopardise this goal and discusses how industry associations and companies in the renewable energy sector could step up its efforts to address these challenges to realise the ambition of a just transition. The paper draws on lessons from the experience of tackling governance and corruption risks in the extractive sector and sets out proposals on how to accelerate collective action in the renewable energy sector. About this report This is a guest Working Paper of the Basel Institute on Governance, ISSN: 2624-9650. You may share or republish the report under a Creative Commons CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 licence. The contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Basel Institute on Governance, University of Basel or funding organisations. Suggested citation: de Vibe, Maja, and Mark Robinson. 2024. ‘Good governance and the just transition: Implications for renewable energy companies.’ Working Paper 53, Basel Institute on Governance. Available at: baselgovernance.org/publications/wp-53.

Identification of Opportunities for Capitalizing on Tourist Potential in Hunedoara County through Rural Tourism Activities and Supporting the Development of the Local Community

The need to diversify economic activities in rural areas is essential for stimulating sustainable development. In this regard, rural tourism can be an effective tool for supporting the development in rural areas. The purpose of this article was to identify the favorability of Hunedoara County for rural tourism activities, which would contribute to the sustainable development of tourism. Rural tourism activities would generate economic and social benefits both for local communities and for tourists, and at the same time preserve and protect the cultural and natural values of the area. The research methods used to carry out this study are both qualitative (documentary study) and quantitative (a questionnaire applied in order to identify the perceptions of tourists with respect to the tourist development potential of Hunedoara County through rural tourism). The main results of the research consist in the identification of some directions for future development of Hunedoara County. These directions would, in the future, lead to an increase in the visibility of local rural communities; to the preservation of local traditions and customs, while promoting sustainability and respect for the environment; and to the implementation of a plan for sustainable development through rural tourism in the studied area.

Agroforestry and the Climate Crisis: Prioritizing Biodiversity Restoration for Resilient and Productive Mediterranean Landscapes

This study deals with the future of the traditional agroforestry systems (TAFSs) in the northern Mediterranean Basin. Important productive systems, such as ancient non-irrigated olive groves and extensive silvopastoral systems, from subalpine grasslands to coastal landscapes, are being irreversibly degraded, threatening the bio-cultural heritage of the Mediterranean region, an area recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. In the midst of the global biodiversity and climate crisis, immediate actions are proposed for the protection and conservation management of TAFSs, within a new EU policy framework. Having the TAFSs of Greece in the spotlight of this analysis, a four-step approach was used in order to review the value of agroforestry in terms of (a) biodiversity (birds, mammals, invertebrates and soil biota), (b) agroforestry landscapes, such as traditional olive groves on terraces and valonia silvopastoral systems, (c) ecosystem services, especially concerning cultural values, and (d) the modern threats to traditional agroforestry. Through this research, problems are highlighted and European policy priorities are defined. Our conclusion is that there is an immediate need to revise the European Union rural, forestry, and environmental policies in the Mediterranean region, following the provisions of the new EU Nature Restoration Law, in order to revive agroforestry landscapes and make them productive and sustainable again for the benefit of rural economies, local communities, and biodiversity, especially in marginal Mediterranean mountainous and island areas, where depopulation and susceptibility to wildfires are major threats.

ENTOMOPHAGY AS A POTENTIAL TOURISM PRODUCT: THE CASE OF THE MOPANI DISTRICT, LIMPOPO PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA

Entomophagy and entomophagy tourism have been gaining traction as a growing trend in various parts of the world. Although the concept may be relatively new in some regions, entomophagy has existed for many years and offers various benefits for farmers, local communities, and tourists alike. Entomophagy tourism involves a tourist visiting an area to learn about and experience insect-based foods in various forms such as tasting dishes or participating in insect harvesting and preparation. When implemented sustainably, entomophagy tourism can generate additional farmer income, create job opportunities, utilise more farm resources, and preserve natural and cultural heritage. This study aimed to explore and assess the potential of entomophagy tourism in the Mopani District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. This involved investigating the cultural, ecological, and economic dimensions of insect consumption in the region, specifically focusing on how entomophagy can be leveraged to promote tourism. Ultimately, the goal was to provide insights and recommendations that can contribute to the sustainable development of entomophagy tourism in the Mopani District, fostering cultural preservation and economic growth in the region.

Can Optimized Genetic Algorithms Improve the Effectiveness of Homestay Recommendation Systems in Smart Villages? A Case of Thailand

ABSTRACTThis paper introduces a novel approach to optimize genetic algorithms (GAs) for homestay recommendation systems, specifically designed for smart village tourism destinations. Researchers developed an advanced GA focused on maximizing user satisfaction, the main quality metric. The algorithm was tailored to address the dynamic nature of homestay offerings and the varied preferences of travelers, using users' reviews, listing attributes, and historical booking data. The GA framework included a custom encoding scheme, fitness function, and parameters. Validation occurred through a case study in a smart village, with the algorithm's effectiveness tested via user surveys and ratings. Results showed that GA‐driven recommendations surpassed traditional methods, enhancing user satisfaction, trust, and booking rates while benefiting hosts with positive reviews. The optimized GA improved recommendation accuracy and efficiency, boosting economic benefits for local communities and contributing significantly to recommendation system research.

Distribution, ecology, and threats assessment of 11 endemic frankincense tree taxa (Boswellia) in the Socotra Archipelago (Yemen)

Societal Impact StatementConserving frankincense trees (Boswellia) is crucial for both ecological and socio‐economic reasons. Surveying these trees in the field and using remote sensing unmanned aerial vehicles in the Socotra Archipelago, we found that Socotran frankincense trees are threatened by forest fragmentation, overgrazing, and increasingly frequent extreme climate events. A better understanding of the distribution and the threats of these important insular species will improve the conservation policy of the local authorities and benefit local communities in the Socotra Archipelago. At the same time, this work serves as a good practice example to guide conservation efforts for other culturally important threatened tree species around the world, therefore helping to sustain local livelihoods, fostering ecological resilience, and supporting socio‐economic stability.Summary Globally, frankincense trees (Burseraceae: Boswellia) are increasingly under threat because of habitat deterioration, climate impacts, and the olibanum trade. Despite harboring nearly half of the species in the genus, up‐to‐date insights are lacking for the insular endemic frankincense trees of the Socotra Archipelago UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site (Yemen). We combined georeferencing of individual trees in the field with remote sensing applying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to evaluate Boswellia distribution and (sub)population sizes in the entire Socotra Archipelago. We counted 17,253 trees across all 11 taxa and we surveyed almost 55% directly in the field, collecting individual information on threats and health indicators. We estimate that the current total population sizes of the relatively common Socotran Boswellia taxa (Boswellia elongata, Boswellia popoviana, and Boswellia ameero) consist of a few thousand mature individuals with fragmented distribution of which a large proportion occurs in highly disjunct relictual stands, while the more range‐restricted species survive only through a few hundred (Boswellia nana and Boswellia samhaensis) to fewer than a hundred trees (Boswellia scopulorum). Our field data show that the Socotran frankincense trees are threatened by fragmentation and overgrazing resulting in a lack of natural regeneration, in combination with effects of extreme climate events (e.g., higher frequency and intensity of cyclones and prolonged drought) and potential future infrastructure developments; the species are less impacted by resin collection. We provide recommendations to strategize urgent protection of the declining Socotran frankincense trees, and we update their conservation status, resulting in an endangered status for seven and a critically endangered status for four taxa.

Karacak Valley Tourism Development Strategy, Garut District, West Java

Garut Regency has great potential for tourism development thanks to its wealth of natural resources. However, many tourist destinations in this region are unsustainable due to a lack of adequate understanding and capacity in their management. Wana Wisata Karacak Valley, is one of the destinations managed by BKPH Cibatu KPH Garut Perum Perhutani Divre West Java and Banten. Even though it has attractive natural beauty, the number of visitors to Karacak Valley has decreased drastically during the COVID-19 pandemic. Observations show that Karacak Valley has attractions in the form of natural beauty, dense vegetation and waterfalls, but there has been no in-depth study of its development strategy. This research aims to develop a management strategy for the Karacak Valley Tourism Area using a SWOT analysis approach. The results of the study show that the potential of the Karacak Valley includes the beauty of pine vegetation, diversity of animals, accessibility supported by local transportation, and adequate accommodation. The proposed development strategy includes collaboration with regional and village governments, increasing promotion through educational tourism programs and social media, as well as improving security facilities in the waterfall tourist area. With this strategy, it is hoped that the Karacak Valley can be developed optimally and sustainably, providing economic benefits for local communities, as well as preserving its natural environment. Good management will ensure that Karacak Valley remains an attractive and competitive tourist destination in the future.

Co‐occurrence of surf breaks and carbon‐dense ecosystems suggests opportunities for coastal conservation

AbstractSurf breaks are increasingly recognized as socio‐environmental phenomena that provide opportunities for biodiversity conservation and sustained benefits for local communities. Here, we examine an additional benefit from improved conservation of the ecosystems that host and surround surf breaks—their coincidence with carbon dense coastal ecosystems. Using global spatial datasets of irrecoverable carbon (defined as carbon stocks that, if lost today, could not be recovered within 30 years' time), surf break locations, ecosystem types, protected areas, and Key Biodiversity Areas, we identified 88.3 million tonnes of irrecoverable carbon held in surf ecosystems. Of this total, 17.2 million tonnes are found in Key Biodiversity Areas without formal measures of protection. These results highlight surf conservation as a potential avenue to simultaneously mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable development in coastal communities.

Blooming markets: The economic dynamics of the Nepal rose trade

Thanks to its excellent climate and varied agroecological zones, Nepal has been a significant player in the global rose market. The geographical variety of the nation makes it possible to grow roses all year long, making it a desirable location for rose export and cultivation. The production and export of roses have significantly increased in recent years. The rose trade has increased in Nepal for several reasons. Investment in the industry has been stimulated by government measures to support floriculture and offer incentives to rose farmers. Additionally, the effective distribution of roses to domestic and foreign markets has been made possible by better transportation infrastructure. The growth of the global market has greatly aided the development of Nepal's rose industry. The growth of rose cultivation in Nepal has significantly impacted the economy and employment. It is a good source of revenue through internal sales, export, and other activities that provide value addition. The sector creates direct farm jobs while local communities benefit from indirect employment in supporting industries. In addition, there is increased job opportunities due to seasonal spikes in demand. Rose exports have expanded due to a rise in demand for Nepali roses, particularly in European markets and nearby nations like India. The favorable trade agreements Nepal has with several nations have helped to increase its exports even more. But issues still exist in the rose trade sector. Since maintaining consistent quality is necessary to compete in the international market, quality control and standardization continue to be areas of concern. The rose business in Nepal is also vulnerable to changes in global demand and competition from other nations that grow roses. Further expansion of the industry will help it overcome problems like limited technology and training hence leading to its fast development; this calls for government support as well as market expansion. In conclusion, the rose trade environment in Nepal is a fluid and changing one. Due to favorable circumstances, government assistance, and global demand, the sector has seen significant expansion. Continuous efforts in quality control, market diversification, and innovation are necessary to maintain and grow this sector. The rose trade in Nepal has the potential to significantly boost the nation's agricultural exports while promoting economic growth in rural areas.

Heritage conservation and energy efficiency in adaptive reuse projects the case of Gaziantep, Türkiye

PurposeThis article explores the challenges and opportunities in adaptive reuse projects for historic buildings, focusing on the interrelationship between energy efficiency and heritage conservation.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilises a mixed-method approach, including semi-structured interviews and energy retrofit surveys, conducted in seven adaptively reused historical buildings in the Bey neighbourhood, Gaziantep, Türkiye. Thematic analysis is used for interviews, and survey results were discussed together within the framework of CSN EN16883.FindingsThe adaptive reuse of historic buildings can result in economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits for local communities. However, for this to occur, careful consideration must be given when selecting the new function, ensuring that it aligns with the buildings' environmental performance potential and the community’s needs. Considering the CSN EN16883 Guidelines for improving the energy performance of historic buildings, when the retrofits made by the users are assessed, the general approach is to preserve the heritage value of the building rather than making it energy efficient.Originality/valueThis study will add to a cross-cultural understanding of the complex relationship between adaptive reuse, energy efficiency and heritage conservation by looking at the local context of Gaziantep. No similar qualitative study addresses this issue in this region.

ESTIMASI POTENSI NILAI EKONOMI AGROFORESTRI BERBASIS PALUDIKULTUR UNTUK RESTORASI LAHAN GAMBUT

Paludiculture-based agroforestry promotes sustainable peatland-use management practices through rewetting activities on drained peatland, revegetating degraded peatland using high-value local tree species and at the same time providing economic benefits for local communities. Due to its potential benefits in maintaining balance between production and protection function of the landscape, paludiculture-based agroforestry in peatlands is purposed to support the restoration efforts. This paper explores the potential, ideal paludiculture-based agroforestry direction, and economic value. We present two scenarios for agroforestry in peatlands: 1) business as usual (BAU) agroforestry by combining native peatland tree species and dryland crops, and 2) paludiculture-based agroforestry by combining native peatland tree species and paludiculture crops. The results show that the economic value of BAU agroforestry ranges from IDR 40.32 million (US$2,826) to IDR 133.47 million (US$9,355) per hectare per year (ha/year) and paludiculture-based agroforestry from IDR 44.22 million (US$3,099) to IDR 106.73 (US$7,481) million ha/year. Taking the BAU model as baseline, the paludiculture model leads to higher emission reduction with a value of IDR 6.2 million (US$435) to IDR 25.21 million (US$1767) per ha/year relative to the BAU. This implies a wider scope of ecological and economic benefits offered by the paludiculture-based agroforestry model compared to the BAU.

Evaluation of The Rahong Pangalengan Pine Forest Tourism Area

Natural tourism areas have an important role in preserving nature and encouraging local economic growth. However, uncontrolled tourism growth often causes environmental problems. Therefore, evaluating the sustainability of tourist area development is very important to ensure long-term natural sustainability, by paying attention to aspects of attractions, amenities and accessibility (3A). This research aims to evaluate the condition of the Rahong Pine Forest tourist area to support sustainable development of the area in the future. The approach used is an interdisciplinary approach that combines ecological, social and economic analysis in regional development. The research results show that the Rahong Pine Forest Tourism Area is included in the very high category. This shows that this area has great potential for natural tourism, but there are still challenges in maintaining a balance between tourism development and environmental conservation. From the research results, there are several recommendations to increase the sustainability of the development of the Rahong Pangalengan Pine Forest tourist area in the future. First, provide clear directions to the area to facilitate accessibility for tourists. Second, provide adequate transportation to the area. Third, improve road infrastructure in tourist areas to ensure comfort and safety. With these steps, it is hoped that the development of the Rahong Pine Forest tourist area can be carried out in a sustainable manner, providing economic benefits for local communities, while preserving the natural environment which is the main attraction of this area.

Poor convergence between local traditional farmers and conservationists on which species to protect locally

Abstract Locals engaged in traditional farming and possessing traditional ecological knowledge consider certain species worthy of protection, as do official nature conservationists, although the sets of taxa may not be identical. Exploring the relationship between the two sets of taxa could bring many practical benefits, yet the literature on this subject is scarce. For more efficient conservation and better engagement and knowledge co‐production with locals, it is necessary to understand the principles, preferences and worldviews of the two knowledge systems, and the drivers behind the choices of which animal species to protect. We examined which animal species traditional farmers and conservationists wish to protect, and why. We also examined whether there is a correlation between the extent of farmers' ecological knowledge and the number of species they regard as needing protection. In the case of the species that conservationists consider most in need of protection, we also enquired how knowledgeable local farmers are about these species. Our research was carried out in two adjacent protected sites in Central Europe along the Slovenian‐Hungarian border. We conducted 20 structured interviews with traditional farmers at each of the two sites (40 altogether), and 23 with local conservationists. Both conservationists and local farmers predominantly mentioned the protection of species that do not provide a tangible economic benefit to farmers and that show a declining population trend. Local farmers with greater species knowledge did not know significantly more than those with less knowledge about the species to be protected, nor did they list more legally protected species. The preliminary assumption of the conservationists was that the locals knew the species and listed the ones to be protected for essentially functional reasons (e.g. usefulness). By contrast, it was found that many more aspects (e.g. population trends, appearance) also had a significant impact. Once the boundaries between the two knowledge systems are removed, collaboration between the stakeholder groups can facilitate the protection of natural assets and local communities. We consider it the responsibility of conservationists (together with ethnoecologists and other researchers) to ensure that these preferences are properly understood for the benefit of conservation and local communities. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

PENGEMBANGAN INOVASI PRODUK KOMPOSIT MODUL SEKAT KANAL BERBAHAN BAKU SERAT SABUT KELAPA UNTUK PENERAPAN PENYEKATAN KANAL PADA LAHAN GAMBUT

Peatlands in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, are an important ecosystem but are vulnerable to degradation caused by human activities. To overcome this problem, this research introduces a product innovation in the form of a canal-blocking module made from coconut fiber composite for the implementation of sustainable canal straightening. The study involved a series of methodological steps that included a literature study, prototype development, laboratory testing, and field case studies. The research results show that composite canal-blocking modules have significant potential to reduce land subsidence, increase land productivity, and improve the hydrological balance in peatlands. In addition to significant economic benefits for local communities, implementation of this module also has positive impacts on the environment, including habitat protection and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. These findings have important implications for policy-making and planning for peatland management in West Kalimantan, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions and community participation in overcoming the challenges faced by this ecosystem. This research highlights the potential for innovative canal block module composite products made from coconut fiber as an important step in efforts to strengthen peatland management in West Kalimantan. The next step is to encourage wider adoption and implementation of these solutions while pursuing further research to deepen our understanding of sustainable peatland management.

Exploring the Cultural Significance and Economic Potential of a Wau Bulan Chatbot

This research paper aims to investigate the impact of cultural tourism on the economic development of a country. Cultural tourism, defined as tourism centred on cultural attractions and products, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments in the tourism industry. It plays a significant role in attracting visitors, generating revenue, and fostering cultural exchange. This study explores the cultural significance of Wau Bulan, a traditional Malaysian kite, as a case study to understand how cultural tourism can contribute to the country’s economic growth. Through an analysis of literature and case studies, the research highlights the various types of Wau Bulan, traditional manufacturing techniques, cultural symbolism, and regional craftsmanship. Additionally, it explores successful cultural tourism approaches implemented in other countries, such as China’s "One Belt, One Road" initiative and Japan’s cherry blossom season. The findings emphasize the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting cultural tourism, and harnessing its potential to boost the tourism industry and overall economy. The research concludes by suggesting strategies to further enhance cultural tourism experiences and maximize its benefits for local communities and tourists alike.

The link between waterfalls and biodiversity as a key element for sustainable development and tourism in Amazonian communities

The importance of waterfalls in the Ecuadorian Amazon is highlighted as a fundamental component for promoting sustainable development and boosting tourism in local communities. Indeed, it is emphasized that these natural spaces not only dazzle with their imposing scenic beauty, but also play a vital role in preserving the ecological balance and biological richness of the area. Consequently, their protection and care should be a priority in tourism development policies. It is also noted that nature tourism centered on waterfalls has enormous potential to generate significant economic benefits for the Amazonian populations. However, it should be noted that for these benefits to be truly sustainable over time, it is essential to implement conscious and responsible tourism initiatives that prevent the deterioration of ecosystems and ensure a fair and equitable distribution of the income generated. This research highlights the imperative need to embrace a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to protect and sustainably manage the waterfalls of the Ecuadorian Amazon, harmonising the optimisation of economic benefits for local communities, the application of responsible tourism practices and the enhancement of their ecological and cultural significance. Only through this holistic approach will it be possible to ensure the preservation of these natural treasures for future generations, while promoting equitable and environmentally friendly socio-economic development.

Study on the Influence of Salinity, TDS, GWL and Land Use in the Coastal Region of Kebumen Regency with a Statistical Approach

This study investigates the impact of salinity levels, total dissolved solids (TDS), groundwater levels (GWL), and land use patterns in the coastal region of Kebumen Regency, employing a statistical approach. Coastal areas are often vulnerable to salinity variations, which can significantly affect the surrounding ecosystems and land utilization. The research aims to discern the correlation between TDS, salinity levels, GWL and land use practices in this specific region, employing statistical analysis as a means of quantifying and understanding these relationships. Total dissolved solids (TDS) represent the concentration of inorganic salts, minerals, and ions in water bodies and play a crucial role in the overall water quality of coastal areas. Salinity levels, on the other hand, directly affect TDS and are influenced by factors such as tidal patterns and freshwater input. Groundwater levels affect salinity and TDS. Land use practices, including agricultural, residential, and industrial activities, profoundly impact coastal ecosystems and are often influenced by salinity levels. This study utilizes statistical methods to analyze the complex interplay between TDS, salinity, GWL, and land use in the Kebumen Regency coastal region. By examining data related to TDS, salinity, GWL, and land utilization, this research seeks to contribute valuable insights into the sustainable management of coastal environments. The findings of this study are expected to inform decision-making processes for the benefit of local communities and ecosystems, guiding future policies and practices for the preservation and balanced development of coastal areas in Kebumen Regency

THE ROLE OF FISHING PORTS IN THE SUSTAINABLE BLUE ECONOMY

Fisheries and aquaculture play an important economic, environmental and social role. The development of fisheries and aquaculture depends on many factors, including adequately equipped ports and landing sites. The aim of this paper is to highlight the roleof fishing ports in the sustainable blue economy. Fishing ports support the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture by promoting best practises for environmental protection, maintaining food quality, creating fair prices, supporting workers' rights, integrating local communities and ports, and more. The Food and Aquaculture (FAO)Blue Ports Initiative aims to strengthen the role of ports as drivers of sustainable development in coastal communities and promote the achievement of several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). However, ports are also encouraged to adopt a blue economy approach to management to achieve long-term benefits for local communities. Port management, in collaboration with scientists, policy makers, the private sector, and civil society, should focus on inclusivity, competitiveness, greening, and process efficiency, and support collaborative actions to improve the quality of life of local communities. KEYWORDS:fishery and aquaculture; ports; sustainability; blue economy; marine environment

Site-Species Allometry Equation for Theobroma cacao L. Biomass Estimation in Agroforestry Systems of Cameroon

The accuracy of biomass estimates through mathematical expressions remains essential for the sustainability of the REDD+ process. The objective of this research was to develop allometric models by site species to evaluate the biomass of Theobroma cacao in agroforestry systems in the Central Region of Cameroon. Biomass data were obtained by the destructive method on a sample of 50 trees (5 cm ≤ D ≤ 27 cm). Allometric models were developed using aboveground (AGB), belowground (BGB), and total biomass (TB) as dependent variables and tree dendrometric parameters as independent variables. Nine linear models were adjusted based on the Akaike information criterion (AIC), residual standard error (RSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and various statistical tests including the normality test, heterogeneity, and autocorrelation for the analysis of residuals. The different results show that only the diameter appears to be a good predictor of biomass with an R2 greater than 0.94, 0.85, and 0.95, respectively, for aboveground biomass (M1: ln B = −1.613 + 1.83 × ln (D)), belowground biomass (M1: ln B = −2.611 + 1.65 × ln (D)), and total biomass (M1: ln B = −1.297 + 1.79 × ln (D)). Incorporating crown diameter and height into the models slightly improved the quality of adjusted. Comparison of the models in this study with pantropical equations previously used to estimate Theobroma cacao biomass shows that the models in this study provide a better estimate. The allometric equations developed in this work to estimate the AGB, BGB, and TB of Theobroma cacao can be used under the same environmental conditions to accurately predict the biomass accumulated in agroforestry systems by this species and thus allow the implementation of activities aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation (REDD+) for the benefit of local communities through the carbon market.

Assessing tourism potential for rural tourism development: Promoting SDGs and economic opportunities to the B40 community—A mixed method approach

<p>This research explores the untapped tourism potential of three tranquil villages in Bukit Tengah, Penang, Malaysia. Its overarching strategy is to foster sustainability and economic growth, particularly in the B40 communities of the area. Employing mixed-methods research, the study evaluates tourism products through systematic weighted scoring, questionnaire surveys, and interviews with key informants and tourism stakeholders. The sustainable development theory is used in this study as a conceptual framework for rural tourism development, emphasising the integration of economic, social, and environmental dimensions to ensure long-term viability and benefits for local communities. The results indicate the latent potential for rural tourism development in the three villages, contingent upon garnering local support and collaborating with tourism stakeholders. The study highlights the capacity of rural tourism promotion in generating additional income for the local population, thus promoting both environmental sustainability and community well-being. These findings align with the state government’s goal of achieving balanced tourism growth between the island and Seberang Prai regions. Moreover, this research also aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 11, recognising the role of tourism in achieving goals such as poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and community well-being, all of which are relevant to rural tourism development.</p>