Sustainable Tourism Research Articles

Overview on the characteristics of houseboats in the Royal Belum State Park, Perak, Malaysia

ABSTRACT In Royal Belum State Park, Perak, Malaysia, houseboats have become tourist attractions, complementing its biodiversity and natural landscape. Nevertheless, studies have yet to be carried out on houseboats in Malaysia in general or in Royal Belum State Park, indicating a lack of concern about protecting the sustainability of houseboat tourism. Therefore, this study aims to reveal the characteristics of houseboats in Malaysia, represented by houseboats in the Royal Belum State Park. The study’s objectives are to identify the history of houseboat operation in Royal Belum State Park, regulations on houseboats and operators, houseboat operation and management, houseboats’ design and construction, and issues and challenges the houseboat operators face. This study employs a comprehensive methodology, including literature reviews of research publications and official portals and analysis of reports and statistics from the Pulau Banding Jetty. Interviews with houseboat owners and operators provide insights into houseboat management’s history, operation, and challenges. Detailed field investigations focus on houseboat types, tourism activities, and design characteristics. Measurements and drawings clarify the spatial usage and structural details of the houseboats. The study’s findings will help Malaysia recognize houseboats as official tourist accommodations and work toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG9)

Values of the entrepreneur as a driver of sustainable tourism entrepreneurship

Values of the entrepreneur as a driver of sustainable tourism entrepreneurship

Evolutionary analysis of ecological-production-living space-carrying capacity in tourism-centric traditional villages in Guangxi, China.

The carrying capacity of ecological-production-living space (EPLS) is pivotal to the development of traditional villages and the optimization of their tourism industries. However, research on tourism-centric traditional villages in China remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining EPLS carrying capacity in tourism-focused villages in Guangxi, China. Using remote sensing imagery of Chengyang Bazhai (CYBZ) along with data on local tourism and socio-economic development, the study classifies different types of EPLS and establishes a comprehensive indicator system. Geographic information system spatial analysis, combined with grey correlation analysis, was employed to assess the evolution of EPLS carrying capacity and its influencing factors in CYBZ. The findings indicate that between 2006 and 2015, the overall carrying capacity of EPLS experienced a decline. While the carrying capacity of production spaces remained relatively stable, ecological and living spaces saw notable decreases. However, from 2015 to 2021, EPLS carrying capacity increased substantially. The most substantial growth was observed in Pingyan Village, followed by Chengyang Village, with Pingfu Village exhibiting the smallest improvement. The expansion of the tourism industry has significantly influenced the evolution of EPLS carrying capacity in CYBZ, creating a greater need for strategic future planning. Optimal EPLS and durable tourism development require continuous enhancements in EPLS capacity, reductions in negative interactions between carrying capacity and tourism growth, as well as ecological revitalization. This study contributes to the existing literature by enhancing EPLS carrying capacity understanding. It offers theoretical guidance for its optimization in Chengyang and practical insights into sustainable tourism development in similar regions.

Community Attachment, Emotional Solidarity, and Sustainable Tourism Support: Evidence From Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

Community Attachment, Emotional Solidarity, and Sustainable Tourism Support: Evidence From Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

Mindful mindsets and rural community characteristics in promoting sustainable rural tourism and facilitating the tangible implementation of the circular economy

PurposeThis study aims to examine the role of mindful consumption in promoting rural sustainability, particularly in the context of tourism in Muang Kaen Community, Chiang Mai, Thailand, by establishing a robust circular economy.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected through in-depth interviews with 28 informants who are tourism stakeholders regarding sustainable development, i.e. government officers, business owners, community leaders and community members in Muang Kaen, to achieve the data triangulation. A thematic analysis of the interview data was employed in this data set.FindingsThe findings demonstrate three key themes for driving sustainable community development: a sense of community, leadership and embodiment. At an individual level, local community members co-create a sense of community through Thainess, which gradually forms the social commitment to caring for neighbors, the community, and the environment. Carefulness also relates to another theme, “leadership” – social capital, which drives mindful behavior among the community members. Both situational and official leaders are key persons in forming a culture of sustainability within the community. Finally, the community can achieve sustainable goals by driving from the individual to the collective level through the embodiment.Research limitations/implicationsThis single-case study warrants further examination across different communities to generalize the findings to broader circumstances.Originality/valueThis study has shed light on how rural tourism can drive sustainable development through a circular economy and mindful consumption.

Characteristics of the Tourist Offerings of Cittaslow in Spain and Africa

ABSTRACT While studies on slow tourism exist, research that employs a territorial perspective to investigate whether local governments in slow destinations are promoting their tourism offerings as slow, responsible, and sustainable is not common. Drawing on the theoretical principles of the international cittaslow network regarding what slow tourism should entail, this study analyses, using various tools, some characteristics of the 12 cittaslow locations in Spain and 2 in Africa. Evidence is sought to determine whether the dissemination of their territorial resources on their official websites aligns with the philosophical principles of the network. The results indicate that the majority should improve their dissemination efforts to highlight their status as slow destinations. Finally, a practical suggestion is made to encourage them to promote themselves as slow, responsible, and sustainable tourist destinations without incurring additional costs.

Digitalization in Mycelia Forest Management, Cikole Village: Innovative efforts towards sustainable tourism

Digitalization in Mycelia Forest Management, Cikole Village: Innovative efforts towards sustainable tourism

Women and Symbolic Violence: Measurement Scale of Gender in Tourism Sustainability and the Case of Ecuador

Women and Symbolic Violence: Measurement Scale of Gender in Tourism Sustainability and the Case of Ecuador

Effectiveness of Digital Technology in Enhancing Blue Tourism Sustainability in Tanzania

The study examined the effectiveness of digital technology in enhancing blue tourism sustainability in Tanzania. Specifically, the study examined the use of solar panel technology, use of artificial intelligence and use of health technologies. The study employed a desk research method which involves the collection of data from various literature sources such as documents, scripts, previous research findings, journals, and related books. Qualitative content analysis was utilized as the method for analyzing the data. The findings revealed that solar panel technology is one of the most renewable and green energy sources in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. The findings also revealed that Artificial Intelligence has released up new tourism opportunities with positive effects on the economy, society, and environment. The study concludes that integration of solar power reduces Carbon footprints and increased appeal to budget conscious travelers. Artificial Intelligent enhances visitor’s management, safety, and eco-friendly experiences. Online platforms improve access to information about overseas care and empower patients to make informed decisions. The study recommends that the development and integration of renewable energy sources, like solar, wind, and hydropower, into the energy mix should be given top priority by government and tourism companies. Programs supporting sustainable agriculture and forestry conservation/reforestation should be put into place. Strategies to economic development and environmental sustainability should also be put into place such as encouraging eco-tourism, efficient manufacturing, and sustainable urban planning. The Ministry of Tourism of Tanzania should promote the use of AI technologies in the creation, use, and manufacturing of tourism products.

Spatial Analysis of Network Attention on Tourism Resources for Sustainable Tourism Development in Western Hunan, China: A Multi-Source Data Approach

Spatial Analysis of Network Attention on Tourism Resources for Sustainable Tourism Development in Western Hunan, China: A Multi-Source Data Approach

Using nostalgia to increase tourists’ destination loyalty in heritage cities: from imagined to productive nostalgia

ABSTRACT This study examines how nostalgia influences the relationships between emotional solidarity, tourists’ satisfaction, and destination loyalty in heritage cities. An online survey of tourists in South Korea was administered. Through the data analysis techniques of PLS-SEM, we found that the three dimensions of tourists’ emotional solidarity with local residents, consisted of feeling welcomed, emotional closeness, and sympathetic understanding, are significantly related to satisfaction, but only feeling welcomed is significantly related to destination loyalty. The relationship between emotional solidarity and destination loyalty was mediated by tourists’ satisfaction, which also had a positive association with it. Moreover, the study proposes nostalgia as a moderating factor in these associations, and shows that nostalgia strongly moderated the relationship between emotional solidarity and destination loyalty. The results emphasize how crucial emotional solidarity is for raising tourist satisfaction and loyalty, especially when it comes to feeling welcomed. It has been demonstrated that nostalgia, greatly increases the effect that emotional solidarity has on destination loyalty. The results are discussed through the lens of productive nostalgia, which aims to contribute to the implementation of strategies for sustainable tourism in heritage cities.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism Through Employee Skills: Contextualizing Quality Education and the Human Resource Management Perspective (SDG-4)

Promoting Sustainable Tourism Through Employee Skills: Contextualizing Quality Education and the Human Resource Management Perspective (SDG-4)

Spatial Dynamics of Environmental Efficiency in Tourism: A Stochastic Frontier and Spatial Durbin Investigation

ABSTRACT Incorporating carbon dioxide emissions in tourism efficiency measurement is crucial for promoting sustainable tourism development. This paper uses panel data on 30 provinces in China from 2008 to 2019, stochastic frontier analysis, and a projection pursuit model to calculate the tourism environmental efficiency (EE) of each province. Moreover, a spatial Durbin model is used to evaluate the influence of various factors on tourism EE and its spatial spillover effect. The results show the decline of tourism EE in China, with pronounced regional variations. Notably, central and eastern China experienced substantial declines, while the western region saw the smallest decrease. Enhanced urbanization, economic openness, and tourism industry improvements bolster EE sustainability. Conversely, higher education levels, environmental regulation, and transport infrastructure hinder EE progress. Positive spatial spillovers from forest cover and environmental regulations contrast with negative effects from technological innovation and transport infrastructure. In the context of global warming, tourism management need to plan and utilize tourism resources more scientifically to ensure the sustainable use of tourism resources. Meanwhile, more consideration should be given to the factors that have a negative impact on tourism in order to promote sustainable tourism development.

Multi-level governance of low-carbon tourism in rural China: policy evolution, implementation pathways, and socio-ecological impacts

Low-carbon rural tourism development presents a critical challenge for environmental governance in emerging economies, yet the multi-level dynamics of policy implementation remain underexplored. This study examines China’s approach to this challenge, employing a mixed-methods approach including analysis of 16 central and 559 provincial policy documents, case studies in 15 rural villages across five provinces (Hunan, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Shanxi, and Hainan), and a survey of 637 stakeholders. Our findings reveal a complex policy landscape characterized by evolving national frameworks, varied provincial adoption patterns influenced by economic, environmental, and institutional factors, and three distinct local implementation pathways: technology-driven, community-based, and policy-led. We uncover significant variations in stakeholder perceptions and socio-economic impacts across different contexts, highlighting the critical role of adaptive governance mechanisms and local contextual factors in determining policy effectiveness. This study contributes to policy diffusion and multi-level governance theories by demonstrating the intricate interplay between top-down directives and bottom-up innovations in shaping sustainable tourism outcomes. Based on these insights, we propose evidence-based policy recommendations emphasizing flexible, context-sensitive approaches and improved stakeholder engagement to enhance low-carbon rural tourism governance. This research provides valuable guidance for policymakers and practitioners working towards sustainable rural development and environmental conservation in China and other developing countries.

Enhancing Sustainable Tourism In East Nusa Tenggara Through Air Transport Connectivity

Air transport connectivity is a critical element in supporting tourism in archipelagic regions like East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This article employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach to examine key variables in sustainable tourism development, including flight frequency, airport infrastructure, tourist accessibility, and environmental conservation. The analysis reveals that improved air transport connectivity significantly contributes to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 9 (Sustainable Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Biodiversity Conservation). This article provides strategic recommendations for inclusive and environmentally friendly air connectivity development to support tourism growth in NTT.

Edukasi Keselamatan Wisata Sungai: Langkah Nyata Menuju Wisata Berkelanjutan di Tlatar

Safety Education in River Tourism: A Concrete Step Toward Sustainable Tourism in Tlatar The river tourism safety awareness program in Tlatar Tourism Village aimed to enhance the understanding and awareness of local communities and tourism operators regarding the importance of safety in water tourism activities. Using a participatory method, this activity involved theoretical briefings and practical simulations that provided comprehensive knowledge on the proper use of safety equipment, self-rescue techniques, and preventive measures in emergencies. The results of this activity showed a significant improvement in participants' understanding and awareness of tourism safety aspects, which is expected to reduce the risk of accidents and enhance the quality of tourism in the area. In conclusion, this awareness program successfully improved tourism safety standards and fostered environmental awareness among the local community. This activity contributes significantly to the development of safe and sustainable tourism in Tlatar Tourism Village.

Agritourism as a catalyst for sustainable rural development: Innovations, challenges, and policy perspectives in the post-COVID-19 era

This study investigates the dynamic landscape of agritourism in Thailand, emphasizing innovations, challenges, and policy implications in the post-COVID-19 era. Employing a qualitative approach, including a comprehensive literature review and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, the research identifies key agritourism models, such as immersive learning experiences, technology-driven agritourism, and unconventional practices like salt and coconut plantations. Findings reveal that agritourism has adapted to shifting market demands through diversification, technological integration, and a heightened focus on sustainability. Notably, technology adoption in precision farming and hydroponics enhances resource efficiency and visitor engagement, while initiatives like rice paddy field tourism and highland agritourism showcase the cultural and ecological richness of rural landscapes. The study underscores the critical role of policy frameworks, infrastructure development, and community empowerment in fostering sustainable agritourism practices. Key policy recommendations include targeted subsidies, capacity-building programs, and harmonized regulatory frameworks to address challenges such as financial constraints, regulatory ambiguities, and inadequate infrastructure. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism and rural development, aligning agritourism with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By synthesizing insights on innovation, resilience, and sustainability, this study offers a comprehensive roadmap for policymakers, practitioners, and academics to leverage agritourism as a vehicle for rural revitalization and global sustainability. Future research directions are proposed to explore the long-term impacts of technological integration, community empowerment, and resilience strategies in agritourism.

Pengelolaan Pariwisata Berkelanjutan Melalui Kampanye Pengurangan Sampah Plastik di Objek Wisata Pulau Bokori Sulawesi Tenggara

Sustainable Tourism Management Through a Campaign to Reduce Plastic Waste at the Bokori Island Tourist Destination in Southeast Sulawesi Tourism, as a rapidly growing economic sector, significantly contributes to national income. However, it also causes negative environmental impacts, particularly the increase in plastic waste at tourist destinations. Plastic waste not only damages the natural beauty but also threatens flora, fauna, and humans. The Community Service Program (PKM) by the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences at the University of Sembilanbelas November Kolaka, in collaboration with PT. Palem Edukasi Nusantara, aims to address this issue by promoting plastic waste reduction at Pulau Bokori, Southeast Sulawesi. The program includes literature review, field observation, and awareness campaigns targeting both managers and visitors of the tourist site. Using a campaign approach through several stages—preparation, implementation, and evaluation—the main goal is to raise public and tourist awareness about the dangers of plastic waste. Despite positive feedback, resource limitations pose challenges, requiring further efforts and collaboration to achieve sustainable tourism and a cleaner environment on Pulau Bokori.

Peningkatan Kualitas Tata Kelola Destinasi Wisata di Desa Krikilan Kalijambe Kabupaten Sragen

Improving the Quality of Tourism Destination Management in Krikilan Village, Kalijambe, Sragen Regency This article aims to describe the factors contributing to the limited involvement of local communities in tourism development, identify the need for improved management of tourist village destinations, and explore efforts to enhance tourism services to attract more visitors. The discussion focuses on the conditions of the Sangiran Site as a cultural heritage that must be preserved, emphasizing the role of local communities in supporting its sustainability and appeal. The article highlights challenges such as the lack of central permissions despite various local initiatives to boost attractiveness. Additionally, inadequate promotion is identified as an obstacle to introducing the destination to a broader audience. This article underscores the importance of active community participation in preserving authenticity and maximizing the potential of the Sangiran Site as a sustainable historical tourism destination. These efforts are expected to support cultural preservation and improve local welfare.

Pathways to Progress: Unveiling Structural Change in Africa Through Economic Transformation, Technology, Talent, and Tourism

African economies are undergoing significant structural transformation, transitioning from agriculture to manufacturing, services, and technology-driven industries. Driven by urbanization, technological innovation, and global trade, this shift offers opportunities for sustainable growth but faces challenges such as infrastructure gaps and institutional hurdles. This paper examines the dynamics of structural change in 54 African countries, focusing on the roles of technology, talent, and tourism. Using World Bank data, factor and cluster analyses reveal five latent components: structural conditions, public sector capacities, dynamic conditions, urbanization, and growth. The analysis categorizes countries into six clusters, from Developing Economies to African Powerhouses. The findings emphasize the critical role of technology in boosting productivity, the importance of talent development through education and workforce integration, and the potential of sustainable tourism to drive transformation. This research provides a comprehensive framework for understanding Africa’s structural transformation, offering actionable insights to address disparities and promote equitable development across the continent.