Search Results (1,547)

This study develops and tests an integrated structural equation model (SEM) linking Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC), residents’ quality of life (QoL), and community participation in sustainable tourism governance (STG) across three emerging island destinations in Aceh, Indonesia. Drawing on survey data from 1266 residents, we employ confirmatory factor analysis and covariance-based SEM to (1) assess the direct effects of TALC-derived dimensions on residents’ QoL; (2) examine the influence of residents’ QoL on governance participation; and (3) evaluate both direct and indirect pathways linking TALC to STG. Rather than distinct life cycle stages, we conceptualize and measure residents’ perceptions of destination maturity based on key TALC dimensions, such as infrastructure development, tourism intensity, and institutional coordination. Results indicate that higher perceived destination maturity is positively associated with residents’ QoL (β = 0.21, p < 0.001), and that residents’ QoL strongly predicts governance participation (β = 0.31, p < 0.001). TALC dimensions also directly affect STG (β = 0.23, p < 0.001), with residents’ QoL partially mediating this relationship and accounting for 22.4% of the total effect. Multigroup SEM reveals consistent effect patterns across Weh, Pulo Aceh, and Simeulue. These findings illustrate how TALC-informed perceptions of destination maturity relate to residents’ quality of life and governance participation, suggesting that perceived well-being may play an important role in shaping community engagement in small-island tourism contexts. Full article

Rural landscapes play a key role in preserving ecological processes, cultural identity, and socio-economic well-being, yet these areas often face challenges such as land degradation, water scarcity, and an inadequate road network. A sustainable approach to rural landscape and tourism planning is essential for enhancing both environmental resilience and socio-economic vitality in areas facing degradation and global change. This study aims to develop and validate an integrated methodological workflow that combines Landscape Character Assessment (LCA), ECOVAST guidelines, SWOT analysis, and open-source GIS techniques, complemented by a bottom-up approach of spontaneous fruition mapped through Wikiloc heatmaps. The framework was applied to a case study in Paternò, Eastern Sicily, Italy—a territory distinguished by its key local values such as Calanchi formations, proximity to Mount Etna, and cultural heritage. Through this application, eight distinct Landscape Units (LUs) were delineated, and key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for sustainable development were identified. Using open-access data and a survey-free protocol, this approach facilitates detailed landscape assessment without extensive fieldwork. The methodology is readily transferable to other rural Italian and Mediterranean contexts, providing practical guidance for researchers, planners, and stakeholders engaged in sustainable tourism development and landscape management. Full article

This study explores how private sector initiatives within the tourism industry can contribute to public health outcomes and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) through sustainable agricultural practices. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review with an in-depth case study, the research examines how integrated strategies—such as pesticide-free farming, biodiversity enhancement, and edible landscape design—can reduce environmental health risks, improve nutritional quality, and promote local resilience. A series of sustainability interventions are analyzed using key performance indicators (KPIs) related to pesticide use, organic production, pollinator conservation, and community engagement. The findings reveal that business-led sustainability models can support systemic change when grounded in clear metrics and cross-sector collaboration. Although the absence of pre-2019 baseline data and direct health outcome measurements limit causal inference, the study provides a valuable blueprint for aligning private enterprise practices with global health and sustainability objectives. The implications are relevant for policymakers, hospitality operators, and public health stakeholders aiming to foster synergies between tourism, agriculture, and well-being. Full article

Understanding and promoting guest satisfaction is central to the economic sustainability of the hospitality industry. Satisfaction influences consumers’ booking intentions, hotel choice, loyalty, and the reputation and performance of accommodation establishments. Thus, accurate decision making by hotel managers relies on trustworthy and easily accessible information on the variables that affect guest satisfaction. Nowadays, this information is available through reviews and ratings provided by online platforms, such as TripAdvisor. Indeed, much research into guest satisfaction uses TripAdvisor reviews. However, this study aims to analyse guest satisfaction using only TripAdvisor ratings. These ratings can be more succinct and tractable indicators than reviews. A sample of 118 hotels in Cape Verde and the Azores, two archipelagos belonging to Macaronesia, and a descriptive, predictive, and discriminant methodology are employed for this purpose. Four main results are obtained. First, the rated items on TripAdvisor are consistent with the scientific literature on this topic. Second, TripAdvisor ratings are valid and reliable. Third, TripAdvisor ratings can predict guest satisfaction based on the perceived quality of hotel services. Fourth, there are significant differences in ratings depending on the tourism destination chosen. These results are of interest to researchers, tourists, as well as hotel, destination, and platform managers. Full article

Climate change represents a major global challenge, with semi-arid regions like the province of Almería being particularly vulnerable. Almería’s dependence on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture and tourism, coupled with the absence of perennial rivers, increases its exposure to extreme events including heatwaves, droughts, and extreme precipitation events like storms. This study proposes a semi-quantitative methodology to assess climate risk across different sectors at the municipal level, combining indicators of hazard, exposure and vulnerability within the framework of the IPCC AR6. Exposure and vulnerability indicators were derived from regional, national and European datasets, while hazards were characterized using downscaled Essential Climate Variables. After data collection, the indicators were normalized using a percentile-based approach to ensure their comparison and replicability, especially in data-scarce contexts. The results reveal both sectoral and spatial patterns of risk under three different climate change scenarios, highlighting municipalities with a higher level of exposure, vulnerability and risk. Although the static nature of exposure and vulnerability indicators represents a limitation in future risk quantification, the findings remain valuable for identifying priority areas for targeted adaptation and mitigation strategies. The proposed semi-quantitative risk methodology based on indicators is of great interest and relevance for understanding differences at local scales, as well as for implementing adaptation and mitigation solutions adjusted to the real needs of each municipality. Full article

Driven by global climate change and sustainable development, the coordinated development of multiple industries based on photovoltaic energy in the “Desert-Gobi-Wilderness” region has become the key to achieving sustainable development, as well as transforming and upgrading the energy structure. However, the site selection decision for “Photovoltaic +” multi-industry integration, which takes into account economic, social and ecological benefits in a complex ecological environment, is still a key difficulty that restricts the feasibility and scalability of the project. This study first identified and systematically analyzed six “PV +” multi-industry integrations suitable for development in China, including “PV + sand control”, “PV + agriculture”, “PV + agriculture + tourism”, “PV + animal husbandry”, “PV + animal husbandry + tourism”, and “PV + tourism”. Then, a site selection decision framework for “PV +” multi-industry integration consists of three parts. Part 1 establishes a multi-dimensional suitability assessment system that takes into account heterogeneous data from multiple sources. Part 2 uses an integration method based on BWM-CRITIC-TODIM for priority ranking analysis, which first uses a Geographic Information System (GIS) to carry out suitability simulation for the entire region of China—identifying six alternative regions—then uses the interactive and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method to prioritize the alternative areas. Part 3 carries out further sensitivity analyses, scenario analyses, and comparative analyses to verify the dynamics and scientific nature of the site selection decision framework. Finally, this study identifies regions of high suitability for development corresponding to the six multi-industry integrations. The framework is designed to help decision stakeholders achieve precise site selection and benefit optimization for “PV +” multi-industry integration and provides a replicable planning tool for achieving industrial synergy and sustainable development in the “Desert-Gobi-Wilderness” region driven by green energy. Full article

Plastic pollution poses a massive problem to the environment, particularly seas and oceans. Microplastics (MPs) ingestion by marine species can generate many adverse effects, including causing oxidative stress. This study evaluated the effects of anthropic activity-related MP presence in two coastal fish species—Serranus scriba (more related to rocky bottoms) and Lithognathus mormyrus (more related to sandy bottoms)—in two areas of Mallorca Island (Western Mediterranean) with varying anthropic pressures with similar mixed rocky/sandy bottoms. A total of eight fish samples per species and per area (total n = 32), as well as three water samples (500 mL each) and three sediment samples per area, were collected and analyzed. The results showed that despite plastic presence in both areas, the area with higher tourism affluence was also the most polluted. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed that the majority of recovered polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene. The pattern of MPs presence was reflected in the biomarker analysis, which showed higher values of antioxidants, namely catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD); detoxification, namely glutathione s-transferase (GST); and inflammation, namely myeloperoxidase (MPO)—enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract of fish from the more polluted area. However, no statistical differences were found for malondialdehyde (MDA) as a marker of lipid peroxidation. As for differences between species, S. scriba presented a higher presence of MPs and measured biomarkers than in L. Mormyrus, suggesting higher exposure. In conclusion, these results showed that increased anthropic activity is associated with a higher presence of MPs which, in turn, induces an adaptative response in exposed fish. Moreover, species living in the same area could be differentially affected by MPs, which is probably associated with different behavioural and feeding habits. Full article

Danube River represents a critical axis of ecological and economic importance for the countries along its course. From this perspective, this paper aims to assess the most significant characteristics of the river and of its main tributaries, as well as its impact on the environmental sustainability and socio-economic development. Navigation and the economic contribution of the Danube River are the key issues of this work, emphasizing its importance as an international transport artery that facilitates trade and tourism, and develops the energy industry through hydropower plants. The study includes an analysis of the volume of goods transported from 2019 to 2023, as well as an analysis of the goods traffic in the busiest port on the Danube. Furthermore, climate change affects the hydrological regime of the Danube, as well as the ecosystems, economy, and energy security of the riparian countries. Main impacts include changes in the hydrological regime, increased frequency of droughts and floods, reduced water quality, deterioration of biodiversity, and disruption of the economic activities dependent on the river, such as navigation, agriculture, and hydropower production. Thus, hydrological risks and challenges are investigated, focusing on the extreme events of the last two decades and the awareness of their repercussions. In this context, the national and international institutions responsible for monitoring and managing the Danube are presented, and their role in promoting a sustainable river policy is explored. Methods and technologies are shown to be essential tools for monitoring and prediction studies. The Danube includes an extensive network of hydrometric stations that help to prevent and manage the most significant risks. Finally, a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of the development of the hydrological studies was conducted, highlighting the potential of the river. Full article

Light pollution, most visible in large cities through the absence of star-filled night skies, has become a growing issue of concern across many disciplines. It is not just an esthetic or astronomical problem, but a complex phenomenon with widespread effects on various sectors. The scientific literature highlights several key areas impacted either directly or indirectly by light pollution: astronomy, ecology and biodiversity, the environment and climate change, human health and well-being, the ongoing energy crisis, economy, tourism, public safety and security, and finally politics. A survey was conducted to explore two main objectives. The first was to evaluate public awareness of light pollution, particularly how individuals perceive its impact across different societal sectors. The second objective was to consult lighting experts to obtain detailed insights into how severely each sector is affected by light pollution. The data collected from both the general public and lighting experts were analyzed and compared to provide a clearer picture of light pollution’s actual consequences. This dual-perspective approach aims to identify potential gaps between public perception and expert knowledge. Understanding these gaps is essential for shaping effective awareness campaigns and informing policy decisions. Ultimately, this research serves as a foundational step toward prioritizing mitigation strategies. By aligning scientific data with social understanding, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions that reduce light pollution’s negative effects while promoting sustainable lighting practices for the future. Full article

This study critically examines the rapid proliferation of megaprojects across the Arab region, with a focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where large-scale developments are strategically deployed to reshape global economic influence and enhance geopolitical positioning. Megaprojects, characterized by their vast scale, substantial financial investment, and long-term impact, remain a subject of intense academic debate. While much of the literature questions their economic viability, citing frequent cost overruns and misalignment with localized urban priorities, megaprojects continue to emerge worldwide. Governments and developers promote megaprojects as catalysts for foreign investment, tourism growth, and enhancing the global stature of host countries and regions. Beyond financial and economic imperatives, megaprojects are fundamentally shaped by socio-spatial, socio-political, and capital accumulation dynamics, each playing a critical role in their justification and implementation. These interconnected forces influence the prioritization of large-scale developments, often reinforcing their persistence as dominant urban and infrastructural strategies despite well-documented uncertainties and risks. The study employs a comparative case study approach to analyze two high-profile megaprojects: Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and The Line in NEOM, Saudi Arabia. By examining their underlying motivations, political, social, and economic dynamics, and projected success factors, the study aims to provide an evidence-based assessment of the forces driving these large-scale developments and their potential for completion and long-term viability. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on megaproject development by offering a nuanced, evidence-based analysis of the socio-political and economic forces shaping large-scale urban initiatives in the Arab region. By critically evaluating the motivations and viability of Masdar City and The Line, this research provides valuable insights that can inform future scholarly inquiries into the governance, planning, and long-term sustainability of megaprojects. The Study offers a strategic framework for policymakers, urban planners, and investors to make more informed, balanced decisions that align large-scale developments with broader economic and social priorities, mitigating risks associated with cost overruns, feasibility challenges, and socio-spatial disparities. Full article

Tourism can influence residents’ well-being in both positive and negative ways. Therefore, it is important to understand the nature of these effects and propose directions for future research from the residents’ perspective of positive tourism. This paper introduces a conceptual framework and proposes theoretical foundations and methods for exploring the impacts of tourism on residents’ well-being. It also aims to contribute to the development of tourism practices that promote well-being for all stakeholders, with a clear emphasis on resident well-being, ensuring that tourism benefits are shared between visitors and the communities they visit. Full article

The landscape of the Warmian municipality of Dobre Miasto has significant natural and cultural value. However, the municipality’s tourism potential remains untapped. The absence of comprehensive local zoning plans covering the entire municipality or most of its territory has disrupted the landscape, leading to the emergence of visually discordant elements. Due to rapid land-use changes in the Region of Warmia, the protection and preservation of its rich natural and cultural heritage are increasingly challenging. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of natural and cultural resources, as well as tourism infrastructure, on the development potential of rural tourism in Dobre Miasto municipality in Poland’s historical region of Warmia. Attempts were made to identify spatial disparities in tourism attractiveness and to determine the ways in which the local environmental and the cultural landscape may support sustainable tourism planning. The results provide valuable insights for implementing appropriate land-use strategies and setting new directions for future development. Tourism infrastructure has to be modernized, expanded, and adapted to new projects, while ensuring that planning and tourism management align with the principles of sustainable development. The growth of tourism creates new opportunities for stimulating rural areas, but it requires careful planning and the implementation of policies that effectively regulate tourist flows while maintaining ecological and cultural integrity. Full article

This study explores the intersection of virtual reality tourism, digital innovation in digital transformation and corporate sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism strategies, and sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism. By reducing the environmental footprint associated with traditional travel, VR-based tourism presents an innovative solution to promote sustainable tourism. Through three empirical studies, we investigate how immersive 360-degree VR experiences influence psychological well-being and meaning in life as influenced by sustainable VR experiences. Our findings reveal that VR travel enhances engagement, fosters cultural appreciation, and provides an alternative to high-emission tourism, thus contributing to environmental sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism. The study offers managerial and policy implications for tourism stakeholders seeking to integrate digital transformation strategies into sustainable tourism development. Full article

This study examines the key factors that influence tourists’ perceptions of destination quality and loyalty in the context of adventure tourism in Santa Elena, Ecuador, an emerging destination in Latin America. A quantitative approach was used, with data collected through an online questionnaire completed by 318 participants. Structural equation modeling was conducted using SmartPLS 4 to examine the relationships between motivational constructs (intellectual curiosity, health assurance, stress relief, physical condition, and social connection), perceived destination quality, and loyalty. The findings reveal that health assurance (β = 0.395, p < 0.001), stress relief (β = 0.417, p < 0.001), and intellectual curiosity (β = 0.143, p = 0.010) significantly influence perceived destination quality, while social connection and physical condition did not show significant effects. Moreover, perceived destination quality strongly predicts tourist loyalty (β = 0.634, p < 0.001). The model explains 63.5% of the variance in destination quality and 48.1% of that in loyalty. These results highlight the importance of post-pandemic health concerns, emotional well-being, and intellectual engagement as drivers of satisfaction and loyalty in adventure tourism. While existing research has largely focused on motivations and quality perceptions in adventure tourism within developed regions, studies in post-pandemic settings across Latin America—especially using validated structural models—remain scarce. This study also contributes to filling a gap in the literature by analyzing post-pandemic tourist behavior in Latin America, an underexplored context in existing research on sustainable and adventure tourism. The findings offer theoretical contributions to the field of adventure tourism and practical recommendations for destination managers seeking to enhance their competitiveness and visitor retention in the post-pandemic context. Full article

This study investigates the impact of web-based augmented reality (Web AR) on destination visit intention through the lens of a stimulus–organism–response (SOR) framework, a technology acceptance model (TAM) and flow theory into an integrated theoretical framework. This study aims to address gaps in the literature by providing insights about the relevance of augmented reality to tourism marketing effectiveness. Structural equation modeling was used to test this conceptual framework using AMOS23 on quantitative data collected from questionnaires distributed locally and internationally and applied to 384 participants after going through a Web AR destination experience. The findings confirmed that Web AR stimuli (i.e., interactivity and vividness) positively impact tourists’ destination visit intention through the tourist organism in terms of perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, perceived certainty, perceived enjoyment and perceived immersion. Therefore, the promotion of destinations through augmented reality technology contributes to the development of sustainable tourism. The findings of this study will shed light on an alternative idea for destination marketing to inspire destination management organizations (DMOs) wishing to develop a competitive edge and win within the tourism industry. The results thus contribute to the Web AR and the tourism marketing literature by providing theoretical guidance through a framework for the AR tourism experience, as well as a reference for DMOs. Full article