Attitudes and perception of destination certification towards sustainable tourism development

Chan, Tiffany Kit-Yee

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.8/6700

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Authors

Chan, Tiffany Kit-Yee

Advisor(s)

Dias, Francisco Teixeira Pinto

Abstract(s)

Sustainable tourism has been a topic of discussion for decades, but it is more relevant now than ever. Prior to COVID-19, many tourist destinations were grappling with the negative impacts of mass tourism. The global pandemic has caused international travel to pause temporarily, allowing certain tourism hotspots a much-needed break. However, without addressing the issue with appropriate measures, the crowds will return as will the consequences. Many destinations have taken the opportunity to reassess their sustainability practices by introducing improved destination management frameworks with sustainability strategies as the overarching theme of their recovery plan. Policy makers, destination managers, and tourism experts in the public and private sector are constantly seeking effective tools to better manage tourism and destination development in a sustainable manner. Certification is one of many tools available. Although not a new concept, it is well-known yet widely debated. Destination certification and assessment is an emerging trend, with more tourism destinations striving to become certified. There is also an increase in the number of ecolabels to choose from. However, tourism destinations are complex in nature, with multiple stakeholders and interest groups involved. Previous research has addressed challenges and opportunities affiliated with destination certification, but rarely from the perspective of tourism stakeholders in certified destinations. This study aims to address the impact of destination certification on tourism and sustainable development through the perspective of local tourism stakeholders in destination’s that have achieved certification.