Sustainable Tourism Practices Research Articles

Perceptions of preschoolers and parents on forest pollution

IntroductionAn examination of preschool children’s perceptions and attitudes towards the environment and forests has recently been conducted. However, little research has focused on preschool children’s and their parents’ perceptions of clean and dirty forests. Investigating these perceptions is essential to increase children’s interest in and sensitivity to the environment, thereby fostering their development as responsible individuals who protect the natural world.MethodsThis study aimed to address this knowledge gap by examining the perceptions of clean and dirty forests held by 40 5–6-year-old students and 40 parents, randomly selected from two preschools: one attended by children from high socioeconomic families and the other by children from low socioeconomic families, in a Mediterranean coastal city in southwestern Turkey. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic information and perceptions of clean and dirty forests. Additionally, drawing sheets were distributed to the students to illustrate their concepts of clean and dirty forests.ResultsThe results indicated that individuals with higher educational levels had more complex and conscious perceptions of clean forests. Children considered abstract concepts, such as supernatural forces and fossil fuels, while parents focused on awareness and conservation status. Conversely, parents and children with lower levels of education tended to concentrate on more concrete and everyday factors, such as litter and natural disasters. Individuals with higher socioeconomic status generally associated forest cleanliness with conscious behaviors and conservation, whereas those with lower socioeconomic status linked it more with polluting factors.DiscussionThis investigation provides valuable insights into the management and control of local forests by incorporating the perspectives of children and their parents, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

Learning organizations and sustainability outcomes in tourism: the mediating role of sustainable practices

Purpose This study aims to investigate the influence of learning organization characteristics on sustainability outcomes in the tourism sector, with a specific focus on sustainable tourism practices. It seeks to gain insights into how organizations in the tourism industry contribute to sustainability efforts. Design/methodology/approach This research used a survey method to gather data from employees working in five leading Indian tourism companies. The study was designed based on the theoretical frameworks of triple bottom line theory and organizational learning theory, with quantitative analysis conducted using structural equation modeling through Smart PLS 4 software. Findings This study reveals that learning organizations play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices and yielding positive sustainability outcomes in the tourism sector. The results demonstrated significant positive relationships and mediation effects, highlighting the substantial impact of learning organization characteristics on enhancing sustainability efforts within the industry. Research limitations/implications This study’s findings provide actionable insights for refining organizational strategies and formulating policy recommendations to strengthen sustainability initiatives within the tourism sector. In addition, this research contributes valuable knowledge to the expanding field of sustainable tourism management and best organizational practices. Originality/value This study contributes to the field by offering empirical evidence on the interplay between learning organization characteristics, sustainable tourism practices and sustainability outcomes within the tourism sector. Its focus on addressing sustainability challenges in this industry context provides valuable insights for industry stakeholders and policymakers, guiding them in formulating effective strategies and decisions to enhance sustainability efforts.

Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior to Understand Ecotourism Behavior: The Role of Human–Land Coordination and Self-Mastery

Ecotourism, which promotes environmental conservation and brings social and economic benefits through conscious and harmonious interactions between humans and nature, has become a principal tool for achieving these objectives. Sustainable tourism can only be supported with tourists realizing the elements of attraction toward ecotourism. This study analyzes the roots of ecotourism behavior using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), specifically determining the roles of ecotourism tendency, attitude, human–land coordination stress, and sense of self-control in influencing tourists’ intention and behavior toward ecotourism. This study used a cross-sectional design, requiring 847 participants to complete a standardized questionnaire assessing their behavior toward ecotourism, attitudes, and perceptions. Reliability testing, descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and factor analysis were used to analyze the datasets to discover major factors relating to ecotourism intention behavior. A consequent outcome is that ecotourism attitude and self-determination are the significant drivers of ecotourism desire, while behavioral norms only impact ecotourism attitude and selflessness. The study concluded that the subjective perception of tourists and their behavior control ability are the ones that affect their ecotourism behavior more than other factors. The findings suggest that enhancing tourists’ ecotourism attitude, sense of self-control, and awareness of human–place coordination can significantly promote ecotourism behaviors. These results highlight the importance of comprehensive regional ecotourism analysis, robust environmental education, and promoting normative behaviors to foster sustainable tourism practices. To validate these findings, further research should focus on longitudinal studies and clinical trials to standardize integrated ecotourism strategies and explore the underlying mechanisms influencing ecotourism behavior.

Promoting Responsible Tourism: Assessing Sustainable Practices, Community Engagement, and Environmental Conservation for Balancing Economic Growth and Ecological Preservation in Global Travel Destinations

This study explores the concept of responsible tourism and its role in balancing economic growth with ecological preservation in global travel destinations. By assessing sustainable practices, community engagement, and environmental conservation, the research aims to highlight the importance of a holistic approach to tourism development. Sustainable tourism practices, such as energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly infrastructure, are essential for minimizing the environmental impact of tourism activities. Moreover, community engagement is a critical aspect, as it ensures that local populations are actively involved in tourism decision-making and benefit from economic opportunities while preserving their cultural heritage. Environmental conservation efforts, including biodiversity protection, the establishment of protected areas, and eco-tourism initiatives, are crucial for maintaining the ecological integrity of destinations. This study employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating a comprehensive literature review, case study analysis, and expert interviews to gather insights into the challenges and successes of implementing responsible tourism. Case studies of destinations such as Costa Rica, Bhutan, and Kerala illustrate how these regions have integrated sustainable tourism practices while fostering community participation and environmental protection. The findings suggest that while responsible tourism presents numerous opportunities for long-term economic and ecological sustainability, challenges such as over tourism, resource constraints, and conflicting stakeholder interests remain. The study concludes that effective collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities, supported by clear policies and tourist education, is essential for promoting responsible tourism. This approach ensures that tourism not only contributes to economic growth but also safeguards the natural and cultural assets that make destinations attractive to visitors.

Assessing dynamics of ecotourism using multi-methods analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose: Ecotourism promotes sustainable and responsible travel and tours. It preserves nature and sustains and promotes the environment. The study focused on assessing the dynamics of ecotourism and its impacts on socio-economic development. Methodology: The study is based on a multi-method approach to exploring trends, themes, and influential contributions in ecotourism through a multi-method analysis. First, it applied a systematic literature review (SRL) based on predefined criteria. SRL helped to explore the themes and trends from the Literature, which were later verified through structured interview findings. The interviews were conducted with professionals following the snowball sampling technique to further explore the phenomenon of interest. Findings: The study found that community involvement, environmental conservation, and training and education in ecotourism discourse significantly impact social and economic development in the context of ecotourism. Furthermore, the study explored the critical challenges of ecotourism and proposed a model based on SLR and interview findings for ecotourism development. Originality: The findings provide valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand and promote sustainable tourism practices. The contextual and theoretical synthesis contributed to the body of knowledge and practices and demanded collaboration, cooperation, and coordination to enhance ecotourism.

Impact of Sustainable Tourism Practices on Tourist Satisfaction in Ecotourism Destinations in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of sustainable tourism practices on tourist satisfaction in ecotourism destinations in South Africa. Materials and Methods: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study found that tourists increasingly prefer destinations that implement eco-friendly practices, such as waste management, conservation efforts, and the use of renewable resources, as these contribute to a positive perception of the destination. Furthermore, sustainable tourism fosters a sense of community involvement, allowing tourists to interact with local cultures and contribute to the economy, which in turn increases their overall satisfaction. Research also highlights that tourists who participate in activities aligned with sustainability such as wildlife conservation or cultural workshops report higher levels of satisfaction, driven by meaningful and unique experiences. Overall, sustainable practices not only enhance the ecological integrity of ecotourism destinations but also elevate the quality of tourist experiences, leading to greater satisfaction and repeat visits. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social exchange theory (SET), expectancy-disconfirmation theory and theory of planned behavior may be used to anchor future studies on assessing impact of sustainable tourism practices on tourist satisfaction in ecotourism destinations in South Africa. Tourism operators should develop and implement training programs focused on sustainable practices for all stakeholders involved in ecotourism. Governments and policymakers should develop and enforce regulations that support sustainable tourism practices within ecotourism destinations.

Revisiting the Facilitators of Social Media Adoption within the Tourism Sector: An Empirical Investigation in an Emerging Economy

Aim: This study aims to investigate the factors facilitating social media adoption within the tourism sector of an emerging economy. Background: Social media has emerged as a transformative agent within the global tourism industry, fundamentally altering the ways in which tourists engage, disseminate information, and make travel-related decisions. However, the integration of social media platforms within emerging economies poses distinctive challenges and opportunities Objective: The primary objective of this research is to discern the drivers underpinning social media utilization within the tourism sector of an emerging economy, while also comprehending their implications for destination management, sustainable tourism practices, and economic advancement. This study operates within a considered framework to delineate the intricate interplay between social media dynamics and the broader tourism landscape. Methods: Employing a survey methodology, data was collected from local tourists visiting tourist destinations in Ghana, an emerging economy situated in West Africa, to elucidate their patterns of social media usage and associated motivations. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to rigorously analyze the data and discern the key enablers driving social media utilization within the tourism sector. Results: The findings reveal that factors such as information accessibility, behavioral objectives, tourism satisfaction, and destination perception emerge as pivotal enablers fostering social media adoption within Ghana's tourism sector. Moreover, the study underscores the positive impact of social media usage on tourist satisfaction and loyalty, underscoring its significance in shaping visitor experiences. Conclusion: This study underscores the imperative of comprehensively understanding the enablers of social media utilization within the tourism sector of emerging economies. Hence, by explaining these dynamics, stakeholders can make informed strategic decisions regarding destination management, foster sustainable tourism practices, and propel economic development within the region.

The research of knowledge diffusion network model for Tourism Destination-Public ecological civilization.

Visitor education plays a crucial role in the knowledge diffusion process in outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism. It entails sharing information, experiences, and insights with visitors to enhance their understanding and appreciation of the natural environment. Our methodology for investigating the diffusion of ecological civilization knowledge in tourism destinations involves constructing a knowledge diffusion network model. In this model, scenic spots, tourists, and the public are defined as network nodes, with the communication channels between them representing the edges of the network. By constructing a scale-free complex network, the knowledge diffusion mode of scenic spots can be depicted. The layer of resource supply node consists of different scenic spots, forming the core nodes set for knowledge diffusion in the tourism industry. This research aims to further explore the social and economic value of the tourism areas' ecological civilization knowledge diffusion, as well as analyze the path, quantity, and cost of knowledge diffusion. by analyzing this knowledge diffusion network model, insights into the effectiveness and impact of visitor education in promoting ecological civilization and sustainable practices in tourism destinations can be gained. Overall, this approach provides a theoretical framework for investigating and comprehending the knowledge diffusion process in Tourism Destination-Public ecological civilization, thereby shedding light on the social and economic benefits that can be derived from sustainable tourism practices.

Sustainable Tourism Development Through Religious Tourism in Pasuruan City

The city of Pasuruan holds significant potential for religious tourism, making it a prime candidate for tourism development. Achieving sustainable tourism, which involves finding a harmonious equilibrium between three key aspects - the quality of tourism experiences, the excellence of tourism resources, and the well-being of the local community - is imperative for the region. To this end, well-devised strategies are essential to facilitate urban tourism growth within Pasuruan City. This research endeavors to shift the focus of religious tourism development towards a sustainable paradigm in Pasuruan. Employing qualitative research techniques, the study uses methods such as observation, interviews, literature review, and documentation for data collection. The findings of the research underscore Pasuruan City’s potential for fostering sustainable tourism through the establishment of religious tourism offerings. The establishment of sustainable tourism practices not only promises to bolster the local economy but also enrich the lives of the Pasuruan community, ultimately shaping the city’s identity. This research aspires to serve as a guiding tool for the local government of Pasuruan City, aiding them in implementing tourism development strategies to uplift the region’s economy. Keywords: tourism, sustainable tourism, religious tourism, Pasuruan city

Menuju Pariwisata Berkelanjutan: Eksplorasi Niat Berkelanjutan Dalam Praktik Rantai Pasokan Industri Pariwisata

The growth of the tourism industry in Indonesia has made a significant contribution to the economy. However, the increase in tourism activities has also had negative environmental and social impacts. This research examines sustainable tourism practices, focusing on factors influencing stakeholders' intentions to adopt Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) in the tourism sector. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the study evaluates the impact of knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on behavioral intentions. Data were collected through a questionnaire in Pesawaran Regency, Lampung, and analyzed using SEM through SmartPLS 4. The results show that perceived behavioral control has the greatest influence on behavioral intentions, followed by subjective norms and attitudes. Knowledge significantly affects attitudes toward SSCM. This study also explores the moderating effect of tourism stakeholder categories. The findings highlight the importance of interventions and education in promoting SSCM adoption, contributing to the sustainable tourism literature with a focus on behavioral aspects and offering practical insights for policymakers and industry players

The impact of green knowledge and sustainability on green travel intentions through the lens of theory of reasoned goal pursuit

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing green travel intentions within the tourism sector. By examining the moderating effect of green knowledge within the theory of reasoned goal pursuit (TRGP) framework, the research aims to enhance understanding of green travel decision-making and contribute to the development of strategies that promote sustainable travel practices in Vietnam and beyond. Design/methodology/approach Drawing upon the TRGP, a conceptual framework is developed to understand the relationships among active procurement goals, active approval goals, attitudes toward green travel, subject norms, green travel motivation, perceived behavioral control and green travel intention. The study adopts a quantitative research design and collects data from a sample of 544 Vietnamese tourists through a survey instrument. Findings The relationships between TRGP variables are discovered and confirmed in the context of ecotourism. Furthermore, the moderating roles of green knowledge are also investigated, directly contributing to sustainable tourism through the lens of TRGP. Research limitations/implications The study's exploration of green travel intention and the role of green knowledge contributes to theoretical frameworks and underscores the significance of environmental education in fostering sustainable travel behaviors. Stakeholders in the Vietnamese tourism sector can benefit from practical insights by focusing on eco-friendly accommodations and responsible tour packages. Leveraging social influence and educational campaigns may further encourage sustainable travel practices among Vietnamese tourists, enhancing their inclination toward environmentally conscious behaviors. Originality/value The research underscores the importance of interventions that target goal-oriented factors, positive attitudes, social norms, perceived control and green knowledge in molding sustainable travel behaviors. These insights provide a foundation for tourism stakeholders to tailor strategies such as environmental education programs and supportive policies to promote sustainable tourism practices among Vietnamese tourists effectively.

Experiential value and environmentally responsible behavioral intention in rock-climbing tourism: The role of place attachment and biospheric value

With increasing emphasis on environmental issues in outdoor leisure tourism, understanding the environmentally responsible behavioral intention (ERBI) of tourists is crucial to sustainable development. We explored the novel chain-mediating effect of experiential value on ERBI through place attachment and biospheric value among 300 recreational climbers in Yangshuo County, Guilin City. Using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM), we found that the experiential value of climbing resorts had a direct effect on place attachment and biospheric value. Experiential value and place attachment had a moderate effect on ERBI, while biospheric value had a positive effect on ERBI. However, experiential value and place attachment indirectly influenced ERBI through the mediating effect of biospheric value. Finally, experiential value indirectly affected ERBI via the chain-mediating effects of place attachment and biospheric value. These findings extend existing theoretical frameworks by elucidating previously underexplored chain-mediation relationships. Practical insights derived from this study include strategies for enhancing the management and environmental protection of rock-climbing resorts. These strategies should focus on deepening the emotional connection between recreational climbers and the environment through innovative marketing approaches that emphasize tailored environmental protection activities, community involvement, and sustainable tourism practices. Management implicationsThe findings suggest three innovative strategies, building on existing practices, to foster sustainable tourism in rock-climbing resorts by connecting tourists with the environment. First, immersive programs such as ecotourism, wildlife observation, and multimedia experiences would enhance experiential value. These programs can promote environmentally responsible behavior by actively engaging tourists in environmental education and encouraging deeper interactions with nature, fostering place attachment and biospheric values. Second, content marketing, including storytelling and environmental campaigns that emphasize the ecological significance of rock-climbing resorts could position them as advocates for environmental conservation, especially ecosystem and biodiversity preservation. Third, personalized marketing can strengthen place attachment. Tourists could share personal photos on social media and receive symbolic rewards, such as sustainable tourism certificates. These strategies will actively engage tourists in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism efforts, foster long-term participation, and enhance the unique appeal of resorts as leaders in eco-friendly tourism. Management implicationsThe findings suggest three innovative strategies, building on existing practices, to foster sustainable tourism in rock-climbing resorts by connecting tourists with the environment. First, immersive programs such as ecotourism, wildlife observation, and multimedia experiences would enhance experiential value. These programs can promote environmentally responsible behavior by actively engaging tourists in environmental education and encouraging deeper interactions with nature, fostering place attachment and biospheric values. Second, content marketing, including storytelling and environmental campaigns that emphasize the ecological significance of rock-climbing resorts could position them as advocates for environmental conservation, especially ecosystem and biodiversity preservation. Third, personalized marketing can strengthen place attachment. Tourists could share personal photos on social media and receive symbolic rewards, such as sustainable tourism certificates. These strategies will actively engage tourists in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism efforts, foster long-term participation, and enhance the unique appeal of resorts as leaders in eco-friendly tourism.

Shaping sustainable tourism: how minimalism and citizenship behavior influence tourists’ proenvironmental behavior

Purpose This study aims to examine the roles of minimalist and citizenship behaviors in influencing sustainable tourism practices. It further examined the role of moral credit as a mediating factor in these relationships. Additionally, this research scrutinizes the moderating effects of age and gender on these behavioral influences. Design/methodology/approach This study used a descriptive, quantitative and cross-sectional design to examine the data of 451 tourists visiting three destinations in India. The proposed conceptual model was evaluated through partial least squares structural equation Modeling, and the impact of the control variables was examined via PLS-Multi Group Analysis. Findings The results confirmed that minimalist and citizenship behaviors significantly influence pro-environmental actions. Moral credit has emerged as a pivotal bridge between these behaviors and sustainable tourism practices, underscoring its mediating role. Additionally, the analysis revealed that age and gender substantially moderated these relationships, highlighting the demographic-specific dynamics. Originality/value This study provides novel insights into how behaviors such as minimalism and citizenship contribute to sustainable travel practices. The identification of moral credit as a key mediator, along with the demographic nuances of age and gender, offers unique perspectives on sustainable consumer behavior dynamics within tourism. These findings provide valuable directions for stakeholders in sustainable tourism and policymakers aiming to cultivate positive consumer behaviors and advance the sustainability of the sector.

Sustainable Tourism Dynamics at Kakrebihar: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Visitor Satisfaction and Loyalty within Archaeological and Forest Preserves

This research explores the dynamics of sustainable tourism at Kakrebihar, an archaeological site and forest preserve in Nepal, by examining the connections between sustainable tourism practices (STP), destination attributes (DA), visitor experience quality (VEQ), visitor satisfaction (VS), and visitor loyalty (VL). A quantitative approach rooted in the positivist paradigm was employed, with data collected through a survey of 407 visitors. Structural equation modeling (SEM), along with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), was used for data analysis. The results show significant positive correlations between STP, VEQ, and DA with VS, yielding path coefficients of 0.103, 0.382, and 0.283, respectively. VEQ emerged as the most influential factor in enhancing visitor satisfaction, highlighting the critical role of enriching visitor experiences. Furthermore, VS was identified as a key driver of VL, with a path coefficient of 1.362, suggesting that satisfied visitors are more inclined to return and recommend the site. These outcomes emphasize the role of sustainable tourism practices, destination appeal, and visitor experience in cultivating both satisfaction and loyalty. The study offers valuable insights for stakeholders, underlining the importance of effective tourism management to protect Kakrebihar's archaeological and ecological resources while promoting sustainable growth.

A critical insight into the intersection of sustainability and technology

Purpose This paper aims to explore the role of blockchain (BCT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in enhancing and incentivizing environmentally responsible, socially inclusive and economically viable tourism practices within the hospitality and tourism (H&T) industry. Design/methodology/approach This study is based on a critical reflection research approach that enables a synthesis of information derived from existing literature's insights and the authors' experiences and observations. By examining frameworks and theories in the literature, critical reflection also helps develop a more comprehensive understanding of the topic. Findings This study portrays how BCT could be used to track the sustainability credentials of tourism providers and how AI can optimize energy usage in hotels. This study depicts how adopting technology-driven sustainable practices in the H&T industry can increase profitability, improve reputation, compliance with regulations, efficiency and a better guest experience. Practical implications The study suggests targeted actions and policy frameworks that can be tailored to different stakeholder groups (hospitality businesses, policymakers and tourists) to overcome barriers and maximize the positive societal and environmental impacts of adopting BCT and AI for sustainable tourism. Originality/value The originality of this study lies in its ability to offer new perspectives and novel recommendations on the diverse uses of AI and BCT in the context of sustainable tourism. Furthermore, the study provides strategic and policy elements (Targeted actions and policy frameworks) for stakeholders to integrate sustainable tourism practices using BCT and AI successfully. This study differs from earlier review studies that primarily focused on adopting emerging technologies and ignoring the sustainability angle in the use of technology.

Enhancing tourism management through big data: Design and implementation of an integrated information system

Many sectors, particularly traveling, have been profoundly affected by the fast development of big data technologies. This article provides a detailed examination of the development and execution of a Tourism Management Information System (TMIS) that utilizes big data analytics to improve operational effectiveness, gain insights into tourist behavior, and encourage sustainable tourism practices. The system combines data from several sources, including booking systems, social media platforms, and tracking devices, and addresses issues related to data privacy, quality, and integration. The TMIS utilizes statistical information to provide tailored tourist experiences, enhance resource allocation, and aid in long-term planning. The study emphasizes the significance of strong data management, which involves assuring the precision of data and its immediate significance. Additionally, this article examines the potential of big data in promoting a strong and creative tourism industry. It highlights the importance of future studies in exploring sustainable uses of big data and the incorporation of novel technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve personalized experiences. The present research highlights the significant and positive influence of big data on the management of tourism. It offers a structured approach for implementing big data in practice and sets the stage for long-term and sustainable growth in the tourism sector.

The Role of Sustainable Tourism in Enhancing Cultural Heritage Preservation: In-depth Analysis

Sustainable tourism is essential to improving the preservation of cultural property since it encourages ethical travel, helps local communities, and raises money for conservation initiatives. It guarantees the preservation of cultural treasures for future generations while promoting awareness and appreciation of them. In this paper, the relationship between sustainable tourism practice, environmental policies, tourist education, community involvement, tourism revenue allocation, and cultural heritage preservation were evaluated using structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis. Five hypotheses were developed and the dataset includes 232 respondents. A systematic questionnaire with a Likert scale rating was used to evaluate the data. As a result, latent construct validity and reliability were examined, and the structural model evaluated the connections between the constructs in the context of the suggested hypotheses. The structural model revealed that EP, STP, and TE are positively connected to the CHP, providing support for hypothesis 1: Cultural Heritage Preservation and Sustainable Tourism Practice (CHP→STP) and 3:Cultural Heritage Preservation and Environmental Policies (CHP→EP) are well supported and show no significant changes to enhancing heritage preservation.

Microplastic and heavy metal contamination in sediments of the high-altitude Nundkol Lake of northwestern Himalayas-Kashmir

This study investigates heavy metal and microplastic contamination in the sediment of Nundkol Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake in the northwestern Himalayas. Sediment analysis revealed heavy metal concentrations significantly exceeding background levels, with average concentrations of cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and chromium (Cr) recorded at 40.991 ppm, 54.434 ppm, 87,843.59 ppm, 1544.566 ppm, 83.288 ppm, 16.312 ppm, 104.571 ppm, and 106.514 ppm, respectively. Notably, the highest levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Pb were observed in sample GL2, indicating potential local geochemical anomalies. The trace elements were quantified using a Graphite Furnace - Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Perkin Elmer-PinAAcle 900AA) for high precision.Microplastic analysis revealed an average abundance of 76±12.08 items/kg dry weight, predominantly fibers. The microplastics were mostly red (55.26 %), blue (36.84 %), orange (5.26 %), and green (2.63 %). Raman spectroscopy identified Polyamides (PA) as the predominant type (86.5 %), with the remainder being Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP). The results suggest tourism, fishing, and trekking activities as major contributors to microplastic presence. This study uniquely combines the assessment of heavy metal and microplastic contamination in a high-altitude lake, providing a comprehensive view of pollutant dynamics. The findings highlight the need for tailored mitigation strategies and comprehensive monitoring programs to protect this fragile region. Applications include informing environmental policy, guiding pollution mitigation efforts, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This study offers valuable insights into the environmental health of high-altitude lakes and underscores the need for efforts to mitigate anthropogenic impacts.

Contribution of the English Language to Advancing Travel and Tourism

This article explores the intricate relationship between language and tourism, focusing on the role of English as a global lingua franca in facilitating communication and cultural exchange. While English is often viewed as a colonial language used for resource exploitation, its knowledge is a resource that attracts and facilitates tourists, enriching tourism. The research questions address how English has become integral to tourism and its impacts on tourist experiences and destination choices. The study employs a historical and sociolinguistic analysis, examining the historical, political and economic factors contributing to the globalization of English. The paper emphasizes the importance of effective communication in tourism, illustrating how language proficiency in English enhances tourist experiences and influences destination selection. Additionally, it highlights the significance of linguistic diversity in enriching the tourism experience and promoting inclusivity. Findings indicate that English proficiency significantly enhances tourist experiences while linguistic diversity adds value to tourism. The paper advocates for sustainable tourism practices that embrace cultural and linguistic diversity. Overall, it calls for a deeper understanding of the interplay between language and tourism to foster cultural appreciation and sustainable tourism practices globally.

"REVITALIZING HERITAGE TOURISM IN GWALIOR POST-COVID-19: CHALLENGES, STRATEGIES, AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT"

The Gwalior region, which is abundant in historical and cultural assets, offers a substantial number of chances for the growth of tourist business. Gwalior, which is renowned for its magnificent forts, palaces, and temples, has the potential to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. With regard to the growth of tourism in the Gwalior region, this article investigates both the difficulties and the opportunities that are associated with it. The region is encountering a number of challenges in order to realize its tourist potential, despite the fact that it has a rich tradition. There are a number of key obstacles, including inadequate infrastructure, which discourages potential tourists. Some examples of this include poor road connectivity and limited hotel options. In addition, the region's attractions are not being utilized to their full potential since there are not enough efficient marketing tactics and promotional activities carried out. Inadequate investments in tourist development and a shortage of workers with the necessary skills both contribute to the worsening of these problems. Nevertheless, there is reason to be optimistic about the future of tourism in Gwalior. The region has the potential to capitalize on its distinctive offerings if it engages in strategic planning and investment. Through the development of sustainable tourism practices, the enhancement of infrastructure, the improvement of accessibility, and the enhancement of accessibility, the region's appeal to domestic and foreign visitors may be considerably increased. Increasing exposure and interaction with prospective visitors may be accomplished via the implementation of efficient marketing campaigns and the utilization of digital technology platforms. The development of tourism that is both inclusive and sustainable may also be promoted through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, which will ensure that the benefits are transferred to a large number of people. At the end of this paper, recommendations are provided for policymakers and stakeholders to overcome the present difficulties and capitalize on the prospects for tourism expansion in Gwalior. This would ultimately contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.