SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Sustainable Tourism



Sustainable Tourism

Introduction

With the mobility of tourists and modes of transportation rapidly evolving, it has become easier for tourists to explore new locations. In line with this, there has been increased promotion in the industry of the concept of responsible tourism or sustainable tourism. This paper presents an analysis of the statement that despite the existence of many initiatives, sustainable tourism practices have not spread across the industry because the stakeholders of tourism are still divided on how to improve the sustainability of tourist destinations. It also assesses barriers or challenges that should be considered when implementing any changes in sustainable tourism practices.

Sustainable Tourism: Definition

Prior to discussing the stakeholder's perspectives on sustainable tourism and level of prevalence of sustainable tourism in the industry, it is essential to describe the concept of sustainable tourism (Harris et al., 2002). Sustainable or responsible tourism is the application of the standards of sustainable development tourism that aims to patch up economic advancement with an environmentally-friendly and social approach. United Nations World Tourism Organisation Charter states that sustainable tourism must be “economically viable, socially and ethically equitable for local populations, and ecologically bearable in the long-term”. Sustainable tourism applies to all areas (urban, rural, coastal and mountain) and all tourism-related markets (such as transportation, travel accommodation and tourist attractions) (Pineda, 2004, 71). Sustainable tourism is defined as responsible travel, mainly to natural areas, that protects the environment and improves the welfare of local people (Solway, 2010, 23).

Based on the principles and definition of ecotourism established by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990, ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that improve the wellbeing of local people and conserve the environment (Weaver, 2006, 46).” Ecotourism is a type of tourism which involves visiting natural areas and protecting the natural resource and environment.



Sustainable Tourism and Stakeholders

Stakeholders of tourism industry have started to turn out to be more aware of tribulations associated to the environment and most important problems such as global warming and this has started influencing their decisions (Donald, 2003). Also, many stakeholders have started to comprehend that a real turnaround in provisions of expenditure patterns is necessary to avert more worsening of the environment. However, the attitude of some stakeholders towards the environment remains ambiguous thus consumer behaviour can be contradictory or confusing. For example, environmentally-aware stakeholders might purchase environmentally-friendly products and then take a plane to go on a city break (Byrd, 2007). This confused attitude towards environmental issues means that companies find it complicated to determine the requirements and desires of stakeholders with consideration to sustainability.

The association of Tourism, which was established in 2005, was created to promote sustainable tourism by educating and informing consumers on best responsible tourist practices (Weaver, 2005). It holds an exhibition on sustainable tourism during the last quarter of each year. Both sustainable tourism and ecotourism have been increasingly popular in the world in recent years. As a result, tourism professionals have progressively developed into increasing awareness of the importance of promoting eco-friendly ...