Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (2016–2030) and Their Integration into Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province: SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land)

Abstract

This study analyzes the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and 15 (Life on Land) into the tourism development strategies of Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province, Ecuador. The main objective is to assess how tourism can serve as a driver for sustainable infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and inclusive local growth, in alignment with the 2030 Agenda. A qualitative methodology was adopted, involving documentary analysis with exploratory and descriptive scopes. The sources included national development plans, regional policy frameworks, institutional reports, and the relevant academic literature. This study employed territorial indicators related to infrastructure quality, ecosystem protection, and stakeholder participation to evaluate SDG alignment. The results highlight that sustainable tourism practices—particularly those incorporating corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship—can stimulate innovation and enhance resilience in underdeveloped territories. Wetlands and forested areas emerge as key natural assets with strong potential for ecological tourism and sustainable investment. The findings suggest that collaborative actions between the public and private sectors, guided by SDGs 9 and 15, can generate long-term benefits, including biodiversity preservation, improved service infrastructure, and economic inclusion for local communities. Overall, the research underscores the potential of sustainable tourism as a practical mechanism for localizing the SDGs in fragile yet high-value ecological regions.

1. Introduction

Tourism has become one of the fastest-growing economic sectors worldwide, characterized in recent decades by continuous expansion and diversification. This growth is driven by demand, which is influenced by a variety of internal and external factors. Within Ecuador’s four geographic regions, there is an abundance of opportunities for tourism, with Lago Agrio standing out as one of the most significant destinations.

This canton comprises seven rural parishes that offer a rich and diverse gastronomy deeply intertwined with the traditions of local Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, including the Cofán, Kichwa, Awá, Shuar, and Afro-Ecuadorian peoples. For this reason, Lago Agrio is often referred to as the “Land of Colors”. This cultural richness, combined with a diverse array of flora and fauna, enhances the region’s tourism appeal for both domestic and international visitors [1].

On the other hand, the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda is a global action plan composed of 17 goals and 169 targets, designed with a holistic and universal approach—unlike the former Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which focused exclusively on developing countries. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) shift this paradigm by applying universally [2].

Upon the adoption of the Agenda in 2015, Ecuador committed to achieving all 17 SDGs. This commitment was further reinforced in 2017 when the Executive Branch reaffirmed its intention to align national planning with the SDGs, and the Legislative Branch passed legislation mandating the country’s compliance with them. These institutional efforts have paved the way for greater stakeholder engagement in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

Given the significant role tourism plays in Ecuador’s economy—particularly in Amazonian regions such as Lago Agrio—it is both pertinent and constructive to explore ideas aligned with sustainable development, with a specific focus on SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). These goals can drive the development of the tourism and hospitality industries. An analytical approach to the SDGs as catalysts for tourism activity and inclusive economic development provides opportunities for individuals and entrepreneurs to embrace sustainable practices. This, in turn, maximizes the region’s natural wealth without compromising its integrity, thus benefiting the local tourism sector [3].

This study is collectively relevant, as its outcomes offer direct benefits to local communities and indirect contributions at the national level. Its broader significance lies in supporting not only the tourism industry but also key areas such as environmental protection, job creation, economic development, cultural identity, and national pride.

Therefore, this research focuses on an in-depth analysis of SDG 9 and SDG 15 to identify the most effective strategies to support tourism activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province, while enhancing the region’s tourism potential through sustainable and innovative development frameworks.

Lago Agrio, the capital of the canton of the same name in Sucumbíos Province, is in the Amazon region of Ecuador—an area of high ecological significance and strategic socioeconomic importance. Despite its natural and cultural richness, the region faces multiple sustainable development challenges that hinder its tourism potential and justify an in-depth analysis aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

From a tourism perspective, Lago Agrio holds significant potential due to its proximity to protected areas such as the Cuyabeno Wildlife Production Reserve and its cultural connections with the Kichwa and Secoya Indigenous communities. However, its positioning within Ecuador’s national tourism industry remains underdeveloped due to structural limitations such as inadequate infrastructure, low levels of public and private investment, limited road and digital connectivity, and a perception of insecurity associated with extractive activities and social conflicts [4,5].

Regarding sustainability, the region is critically affected by environmental degradation stemming from oil extraction, deforestation, water pollution, and the fragmentation of key ecosystems. These environmental issues are compounded by socioeconomic challenges, including unequal access to basic services, weak community participation in tourism governance, and insufficient local capacity-building for innovation and entrepreneurship [6].

Against this backdrop, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) are particularly relevant. SDG 9 is essential for fostering resilient infrastructure and promoting technological and business innovation that can energize the tourism sector in an inclusive and sustainable way [7]. Meanwhile, SDG 15 is vital for ensuring the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems, which represent the main tourist assets of the region and are crucial for climate resilience, cultural identity, and local livelihoods [8].

Incorporating these two SDGs into the analytical framework not only allows for a targeted assessment of the 2030 Agenda in the Ecuadorian Amazon but also contributes practical insights for the design of territorial strategies that position sustainable tourism as a driver of socio-environmental transformation [9,10].

2. Justification and Context

Tourism has historically emerged as one of the largest global industries, establishing itself as a key driver of social, economic, and political development in nations. It plays a crucial role in diversifying productive matrices and generating income through a series of initiatives that support the growth of the tourism sector [11].

Ecuador, a pluricultural, biodiverse, and multilingual country, benefits from a privileged geographical location that endows it with exceptional biodiversity, including diverse climates and a wide range of endemic flora and fauna. This uniqueness has attracted both domestic and international interest, positioning tourism as one of the country’s most significant sources of foreign income. It is considered a strategic sector for national development, ranking third in economic importance after oil and bananas [12]. In Figure 1, a traditional dance of the Shuar people is shown.

Among Ecuador’s four geographic regions, the Amazon—also known as the Oriente—is the largest, covering 131,137 km², or 48% of the national territory. It is characterized by an extraordinary natural diversity, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for multiple forms of rural tourism, such as nature-based, community-based, gastronomic, adventure, and cultural tourism [13]. In Figure 2, the gastronomy of Lago Agrio is shown.

The province of Sucumbíos, located in northeastern Ecuador, has a population of 230,503 and is the most populous province in the Amazon region. It is also the country’s main provider of exportable oil. Among its seven cantons, Lago Agrio stands out as the principal hub of tourism and economic activity. Located in the provincial capital of Nueva Loja, 264 km from Quito, Lago Agrio is rich in natural and cultural resources, including forests, rivers, and lagoons, offering ideal conditions for nature tourism. These assets, coupled with the warmth and enterprising spirit of its people, make it a unique destination. Therefore, it is essential to enhance this potential through projects, plans, and programs grounded in the principles of sustainability that benefit both individuals and the collective good [14].

In 2015, world leaders, under the framework of the United Nations, unanimously adopted the document “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. This global commitment provides an opportunity for countries and societies to pursue a new path that ensures an improved quality of life for all, without leaving anyone behind. The Agenda includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as Global Goals, and specific targets to be achieved within the next decade. These goals address diverse issues, ranging from poverty eradication and climate change mitigation to education, gender equality, environmental protection, and urban sustainability [15].

The SDGs serve as a roadmap to tackle pressing global challenges, including eliminating poverty and hunger; protecting the planet from environmental degradation by addressing climate change; ensuring prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling lives for all; and fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies free from violence and fear [16].

Among the 17 SDGs, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation. It also focuses on integrating value chains and markets, modernizing industries to make them more competitive and less polluting, improving financial, technological, and technical support for developing countries, and encouraging the development of national technologies.

SDG 15 (Life on Land) calls for the sustainable management of forests, the fight against desertification, halting and reversing land degradation, and preventing biodiversity loss. Terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems—especially forests, wetlands, mountains, and arid lands—face multiple threats such as deforestation, soil degradation, droughts, floods, biodiversity loss, and habitat destruction. Additional problems include poaching, overfishing, and illegal trade in wildlife. Therefore, SDG 15 is critical, as it aims to protect, restore, and sustainably manage terrestrial ecosystems—an essential condition for safeguarding life on Earth [17].

Lago Agrio Canton faces multiple environmental challenges that hinder the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land). In addition to the pressures exerted by extractive activities, a recurring issue is forest fires, whether of natural origin or caused by human activity. These events not only lead to the loss of vegetation cover and biodiversity but also exacerbate landscape fragmentation, limit the sustainable use of land, and diminish the touristic appeal of affected natural areas. The frequency and intensity of these fires pose a direct threat to Amazonian ecosystems, whose resilience is increasingly compromised, in turn affecting the livelihoods of local communities that depend on the natural environment [18,19].

However, since the adoption of the SDGs, their visibility and understanding among the public have diminished. Many citizens and organizations remain unaware of the SDGs and their relevance, which hinders their integration into institutional and business planning. Thus, a deeper exploration and promotion of the SDGs—especially in the context of tourism—can enhance knowledge and foster a more effective development aligned with the 2030 Agenda and sustainability principles.

Although Lago Agrio boasts stunning natural landscapes and a wide array of tourism services—particularly in lodging through hostels, lodges, and hotels—the inclusion of the SDGs, especially SDG 9 and SDG 15, in tourism development proposals has been limited. This lack of integration diminishes the potential for achieving broader, more fruitful impacts across the tourism sector [20].

This gap underscores the need to raise awareness of the SDGs [21], whose implementation remains limited despite the region’s wealth in natural and cultural resources. The inability to align local tourism development with the 2030 Agenda’s objectives—particularly those that emphasize sustainability—represents a missed opportunity. The region’s untapped potential includes unique ecosystems with therapeutic, medicinal, recreational, and ecological value. Recognizing tourism as a steward of these resources could enable reinvestment in conservation and support the long-term survival of local communities that have traditionally managed these environments [22].

This context justifies the need to gather and analyze relevant information, aiming to provide practical recommendations for improving the relationship between tourism and SDGs 9 and 15 in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province.

2.1. Local or Regional Metrics

These metrics were identified through the consultation of official public databases (such as those from the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Tourism, and the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses of Ecuador), as well as through data collected during fieldwork and stakeholder interviews. The following indicators have been integrated into the updated version of the manuscript:

• Protected natural areas: The percentage of the total cantonal territory designated as protected areas, including sections of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and other ecologically significant zones, is used to assess progress toward SDG 15 targets related to biodiversity conservation.
• Certified tourism establishments: The number and proportion of tourism businesses in Lago Agrio that have obtained national or local environmental certifications (e.g., “Distintivo Q”, eco-labels, or municipal sustainability seals) serve as a proxy for measuring the adoption of sustainable infrastructure and operational practices under SDG 9.
• Environmental pressure data: We have incorporated estimates and qualitative insights related to tourism-induced environmental pressures, including waste generation rates in popular tourist areas, the use of non-renewable energy sources in accommodation services, and reported disturbances to natural habitats based on testimonies from local environmental groups.

These indicators have been systematically linked to the analytical framework of the study and serve to illustrate both achievements and gaps in the local implementation of the SDGs. Their inclusion strengthens the territorial anchoring of the research, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of how global sustainability agendas interact with local development dynamics.

In addition, the discussion section of the manuscript now reflects on the challenges associated with accessing and standardizing local data, especially in regions with limited institutional capacity. This has been identified as a structural limitation that impedes long-term planning and evidence-based decision-making at the local level—a point that we believe it is critical to emphasize in the context of sustainable tourism governance.

2.2. Lack of Discussion on Limitations and Contextual Challenges

This section includes the following elements:

• Limited access to up-to-date and disaggregated official data: One of the primary methodological limitations was the scarcity of localized, current data at the cantonal level. Much of the available information is aggregated at the provincial or national level, limiting its direct relevance to the study area. As a result, we relied on triangulation strategies, combining secondary sources with qualitative data obtained from local interviews.
• Potential biases in stakeholder perceptions: As this study draws on semi-structured interviews, we recognize that participant responses may reflect subjective views shaped by individual experiences, political positions, or institutional affiliations. While these perceptions are valuable in understanding local narratives, we have acknowledged the risk of bias and mitigated it through the inclusion of diverse perspectives and comparison with documentary evidence.
• Structural conflict between oil extraction and sustainable tourism: A major contextual challenge in Lago Agrio is the coexistence—and often direct conflict—between extractive industry operations and sustainable tourism development. This tension results in competition over land use, environmental degradation, and conflicting development models, which severely limits the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives. We have emphasized this point in the revised manuscript as a central structural barrier to the implementation of the SDGs in the region.
• Weak institutional coordination and political instability: The frequent changes in local leadership and lack of interinstitutional coordination pose additional challenges for the continuity and effectiveness of sustainability programs. The absence of integrated planning and long-term policy frameworks hinders the articulation of coherent strategies that align tourism development with environmental protection goals.
• Limitations of the research scope: Finally, we recognize that this study is exploratory in nature and does not attempt to provide an exhaustive diagnosis of all sustainability dimensions in the territory. Future research may benefit from larger samples, longitudinal data collection, and the inclusion of quantitative environmental indicators to complement and strengthen qualitative insights.

2.3. Analytical Approach to Evaluating SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the Regional Tourism Sector

This study proposes to evaluate the implementation of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) within the tourism industry of Lago Agrio, Ecuador, through a structured analysis of context-specific indicators. Given the dual challenge of fostering sustainable economic development while preserving critical ecosystems, this research adopts a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis and qualitative case studies to assess the effectiveness of current strategies and policies aligned with these goals [23,24].

To operationalize this evaluation, the following categories of indicators have been defined:

Economic Growth and Innovation Indicators (aligned with SDG 9):

The number and growth rate of tourism-related businesses formally registered in the canton.

Public and private investment in tourism infrastructure (e.g., roads, lodging, digital connectivity).

Adoption of innovation practices in tourism services, including green technologies and digital platforms [25].

Job creation rates and income generation attributable to the tourism sector [26].

Environmental Quality and Ecosystem Protection Indicators (aligned with SDG 15):

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Deforestation rates and land use change derived from remote sensing data [27].

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Surface area under legal environmental protection and its effective management.

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Biodiversity monitoring reports, including the presence of endemic or endangered species [28].

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Environmental impacts of tourism activities (e.g., waste generation, water use, carbon footprint).

Community Participation and Social Impact Indicators (cross-cutting):

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Levels of community participation in tourism planning and governance [29].

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Satisfaction levels of local stakeholders regarding tourism benefits and social cohesion.

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Number and viability of community-based tourism enterprises [30].

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Perceived contribution of tourism to quality of life and cultural heritage preservation.

These indicators will be assessed through triangulated data from institutional reports (e.g., Ministries of Tourism and Environment), local government databases, and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including local authorities, entrepreneurs, and indigenous community members.

By integrating these measurable elements, this study provides a grounded and replicable model for evaluating how tourism development in Lago Agrio contributes to the fulfillment of SDG 9 and SDG 15. Moreover, it offers policy insights aligned with territorial sustainability strategies and community empowerment goals [31].

3. Theoretical Framework

3.1. Sustainable Development Goals—The 2030 Agenda

Sluggish global economic growth, social inequalities, and environmental degradation—hallmarks of our current reality—present unprecedented challenges for the international community. Indeed, we are witnessing a paradigm shift: the continuation of existing patterns of production, energy consumption, and resource use is no longer viable. This reality necessitates a transformation toward a sustainable, inclusive, and long-term development model [32].

Such a shift is particularly urgent in Latin America and the Caribbean, a region that, while not the poorest, is the most unequal in the world. Although inequality is a global phenomenon, it represents a particularly significant obstacle to the region’s development. Structural gaps persist, including low productivity and inadequate infrastructure; inequalities in access to and quality of education and healthcare services; persistent gender disparities; and territorial and ethnic inequalities. Additionally, the region’s most vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by climate change [33].

In response to these pressing issues, the 193 Member States of the United Nations—alongside a wide array of stakeholders from civil society, academia, and the private sector—engaged in an open, democratic, and participatory negotiation process. This culminated in the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in September 2015 [34].

Along with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, also adopted in 2015, the 2030 Agenda represents an unprecedented opportunity for transformative progress in the region [35].

Adopted during the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on 25 September 2015, the 2030 Agenda established a global framework of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 associated targets to be achieved over a 15-year period. These goals cover all dimensions of sustainability: eradicating poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all. Moreover, the SDGs introduce a new model of global governance—based on inclusive goal-setting processes, non-binding commitments, and flexible implementation frameworks that vary by country—aimed at guiding national and international development strategies [36].

Accordingly, the 17 SDGs are presented below. It is important to highlight that these goals are deeply interconnected, acknowledging that action in one domain will influence outcomes in others, and that sustainable development requires a careful balance between social, economic, and environmental dimensions [37]:

• Goal 1. No Poverty—End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
• Goal 2. Zero Hunger—End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
• Goal 3. Good Health and Well-being—Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
• Goal 4. Quality Education—Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
• Goal 5. Gender Equality—Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
• Goal 6. Clean Water and Sanitation—Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
• Goal 7. Affordable and Clean Energy—Ensure access to affordable, dependable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
• Goal 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth—Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
• Goal 9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure—Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.
• Goal 10. Reduced Inequalities—Reduce inequality within and among countries.
• Goal 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities—Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
• Goal 12. Responsible Consumption and Production—Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
• Goal 13. Climate Action—Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
• Goal 14. Life Below Water—Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
• Goal 15. Life on Land—Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and biodiversity loss.
• Goal 16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions—Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.
• Goal 17. Partnerships for the Goals—Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

3.2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

SDG 9 focuses on advancing industry, innovation, and infrastructure as key pillars for fostering sustainable economic development and inclusive growth. This goal aims to expand access to modern and sustainable technologies and infrastructure to improve productivity and business competitiveness, while also encouraging innovation and creativity across economic sectors.

Achieving SDG 9 requires increasing investment in sustainable infrastructure, promoting innovation and technological development, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and encouraging sustainable industrialization. A core component of this goal is ensuring equitable access to technology and infrastructure across all sectors of society, particularly in developing countries [38] (see

Table 1. Goals and indicators of SDG 9.

Goal	Indicator
9.1 Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.	9.1.1 Proportion of the rural population living within 2 km of an all-season road 9.1.2 Volume of passenger and freight transport by mode of transport
9.2 Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and, by 2030, significantly raise industry’s share of employment and GDP, in line with national circumstances, and double its share in least developed countries.	9.2.1 Manufacturing value added as a proportion of GDP and per capita 9.2.2 Manufacturing employment as a proportion of total employment
9.3 Increase the access of small-scale industries and other enterprises, particularly in developing countries, to financial services, including affordable credit, and their integration into value chains and markets.	9.3.1 Proportion of small-scale industries in total industry value added 9.3.2 Proportion of small-scale industries with a loan or line of credit
9.4 By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities.	9.4.1 CO2 emissions per unit of value added
9.5 Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, particularly developing countries, including by encouraging innovation and substantially increasing, by 2030, the number of research and development (R&D) workers per million people and public and private R&D spending.	9.5.1 Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP 9.5.2 Number of researchers (in full-time equivalent) per million inhabitants
9.a Facilitate sustainable and resilient infrastructure development in developing countries through enhanced financial, technological, and technical support to African countries, least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states.	9.a.1 Total official international support (official development assistance plus other official flows) to infrastructure
9.b Support domestic technology development, research and innovation in developing countries, including by ensuring a conducive policy environment for industrial diversification and value addition to commodities.	9.b.1 Proportion of medium and high-tech industry value added in total value added
9.c Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries by 2020.	9.c.1 Proportion of population covered by a mobile network, by technology

).

3.3. Investments in Infrastructure and Sustainable Development

Investments in infrastructure—including transportation, irrigation, energy, and information and communication technologies—are fundamental for achieving sustainable development and empowering communities in many countries. It has long been recognized that increased productivity, income growth, and improvements in health and education outcomes depend on robust infrastructure investment. The current pace of urbanization and population growth necessitates new investments in sustainable infrastructure to help cities become more resilient to climate change while also driving economic growth and social stability. In addition to public funding and official development assistance, private sector financing is increasingly encouraged to support countries in need of financial, technological, and technical assistance [39].

3.4. SDG 15: Life on Land

Protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, and halt biodiversity loss.

Forests cover approximately 30% of the Earth’s land surface. Beyond providing food security and shelter, they are crucial in the fight against climate change, as they safeguard biodiversity and serve as the traditional homes of many Indigenous communities. However, 13 million hectares of forest are lost annually, and the ongoing degradation of arid lands has resulted in the desertification of 3.6 billion hectares [40].

Deforestation and desertification—driven by human activity and climate change—present significant challenges to sustainable development and have negatively impacted the lives and livelihoods of millions, particularly those in poverty. Measures are being implemented globally to improve forest governance and to combat desertification [41] (see

Table 2. Goals and indicators of SDG 15.

Goal	Indicator
15.1 By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, particularly forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with international agreements.	15.1.1 Forest area as a proportion of total land area 15.1.2 Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas, by ecosystem type
15.2 By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests, and increase afforestation and reforestation globally.	15.2.1 Progress towards sustainable forest management
15.3 By 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil—including land affected by desertification, drought, and floods—and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world.	15.3.1 Proportion of land that is degraded over total land area
15.4 By 2030, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, to enhance their capacity to provide essential benefits for sustainable development.	15.4.1 Coverage by protected areas of important mountain biodiversity sites 15.4.2 Mountain Green Cover Index
15.5 Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.	15.5.1 Red List Index
15.6 Promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources, as internationally agreed.	15.6.1 Number of countries that have adopted legislative, administrative, and policy frameworks to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits
15.7 Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora, fauna, and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products.	15.7.1 Proportion of traded wildlife that was poached or illicitly trafficked
15.8 By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems, and control or eradicate priority species.	15.8.1 Proportion of countries adopting relevant national legislation and allocating adequate resources to the prevention or control of invasive alien species
15.9 By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts.	15.9.1 Progress towards national targets established in accordance with Aichi Biodiversity Target 2 of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020
15.a Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems.	15.a.1 Official development assistance and public expenditure on conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and ecosystems
15.b Mobilize significant resources from all sources and at all levels to finance sustainable forest management and provide adequate incentives to developing countries to advance such management, including for conservation and reforestation.	15.b.1 Official development assistance and public expenditure on conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and ecosystems
15.c Enhance global support for efforts to combat poaching and trafficking of protected species, including by increasing the capacity of local communities to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities.	15.c.1 Proportion of traded wildlife that was poached or illicitly trafficked

).

3.5. Tourism and Accommodation

3.5.1. Tourism

According to [24], tourism refers to travel and stays undertaken by individuals in locations outside their usual environment, provided that the visit includes at least one overnight stay but does not exceed 365 consecutive days, regardless of whether the purpose is leisure, business, or other. If no overnight stay occurs, individuals are considered day visitors or excursionists [42].

3.5.2. Types of Tourism

• Mass Tourism: Characterized by a large concentration of visitors in specific destinations, often leading to high volumes of tourist flows to a unique location.
• Social Tourism: Accessible to lower-income sectors, often supported or subsidized. It is promoted through associations and labor unions to provide low-cost vacation opportunities for their members.
• Border Tourism: Based on the significance of border regions in attracting millions of cross-border visitors annually, contributing notably to national international tourist arrivals.
• Alternative Tourism: A response to mass tourism models, it includes travel modalities that emphasize different experiences, such as cultural tourism, rural tourism, adventure tourism, and ecotourism.

3.6. Tourism Infrastructure (Tourism Plant)

The tourism plant is a subsystem responsible for producing the services offered to tourists. It consists of two key components, facilities and infrastructure, also referred to as “tourism amenities”. These include accommodations, food and beverage services, entertainment, and intermediary services that enable the functioning of tourism as an industry.

Tourism infrastructure refers to the physical structures, buildings, and complementary services designed to meet the needs of tourists. It is a planned, not spontaneous, element that is developed in accordance with the location and nature of surrounding attractions and the activities that tourists are expected to undertake. Thus, tourist reception areas emerge, made up of facilities and services catering to visitors [43].

3.7. Components of Tourism Infrastructure

• Facilities: These are establishments, either publicly or privately managed, that specialize in providing essential services to tourists. They include.

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  Accommodation: Hotel-type (hotels, motels, inns, hostels); non-hotel-type (campgrounds, tourist apartments, youth hostels, cabins, etc.).

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  Food Services: Restaurants, cafés, diners, traditional eateries, etc.

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  Recreation: Discotheques, cinemas, theaters, casinos, bars, sports clubs, amusement parks, and other entertainment venues.

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  Other Services: Retail, travel agencies, tourist information centers, tour guides, currency exchange, first aid, childcare, and tourist transportation.

• Infrastructure: Specially designed constructions that enable or enhance the use of tourist attractions. Unlike facilities, infrastructure consists of indispensable structures for the utilization of natural or cultural resources. It includes.

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  Water and Beach Areas: Marinas, piers, jetties, beach tents, umbrellas, lounge chairs, underwater observatories.

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  Mountain Areas: Viewpoints, hiking trails, shelters, cable cars, funiculars.

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  General Infrastructure: Pools, playgrounds, golf courses, tennis courts, changing rooms, walkways, and sports fields.

3.8. Accommodation and Lodging

The Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador (MINTUR) defines accommodation as a tourism activity that may be provided by natural or legal persons and consists of the compensated provision of temporary lodging services to national or foreign guests [43]. These establishments offer temporary accommodation—whether for leisure, business, or other purposes—without implying a change in residence and may or may not include additional services.

In Ecuador, the Ministry of Tourism is the regulatory authority overseeing lodging through the Tourism Accommodation Regulation, updated on 16 March 2015, as part of the national Tourism Law [44].

3.9. Environmentally Friendly or Ecological Accommodation

According to MINTUR, ecological accommodation refers to establishments located within or outside protected natural areas, legally operated by individuals, businesses, or communities. These lodgings are built using certified or sustainably sourced materials and must incorporate sustainable resource management programs for soil, water, and energy during both the construction and operational phases. They must be designed in harmony with the natural surroundings, minimizing visual and environmental impact, while also reflecting the architectural styles and cultural heritage of the region [45].

Tourism, like accommodation, is a service industry. Guests increasingly seek clean, orderly, and comfortable lodging during their holidays, which significantly shapes their overall experience. Consequently, the accommodation sector has implemented a variety of environmentally responsible strategies, including minimizing pollution, reducing energy and water consumption, using local ingredients for food services, and adopting architectural designs that blend with the natural environment [46].

Following the popularization of the term “ecotourism”—a form of tourism aligned with environmental principles—there emerged the term “ecolodge”, referring to lodging facilities whose design and operation are adapted to nature-based tourism models and generate minimal negative impacts on the physical and human environment [47,48].

4. Research Methodology

The methodology adopted in this study is oriented toward the analysis of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 15, which are of pressing global relevance and for which extensive information is available. The research process comprises several stages: the first is gathering and reviewing relevant information on the topic, followed by the extraction of essential elements and their adaptation to the context of Ecuador’s tourism sector, with the goal of generating mutual benefits [49].

In scientific research, the selection of an appropriate method is essential to ensure the coherence and rigor required to achieve the objectives of the chosen topic. As [50] notes, “a method facilitates the formulation of general considerations that clearly introduce new ideas, complementing scientific work”.

In line with this perspective, the deductive–inductive method was chosen for this study. This approach begins with general premises and leads to specific conclusions. Accordingly, starting from the general principles of SDGs 9 and 15 and the state of tourism in Ecuador, this method enables the formulation of clear positions regarding the interrelationship between these components.

4.1. Type of Research

To establish the methodological framework, it is necessary to identify the type and focus of the research. This study employs documentary research, which is defined as the interpretative examination of theoretically grounded problems using information derived primarily from printed, audiovisual, and/or digital sources.

The study adopts a qualitative approach, which involves describing and characterizing analytical categories in alignment with the main research objective. It takes an exploratory and descriptive scope, analyzing tourism-related programs, projects, and strategies that are grounded in sustainability, considering social, environmental, economic, and institutional dimensions [51].

To fulfill the methodological criteria, this study relied on secondary sources, including theoretical frameworks, documents, reports from specialized institutions, undergraduate and postgraduate theses, and peer-reviewed research articles by experts in the field.

4.2. Documentary Techniques

To maintain coherence and methodological order, appropriate mechanisms were employed to ensure the continuity of the research process. In this regard, documentary techniques served as bibliographic support, providing the necessary flexibility in the treatment of content [52].

These techniques also enabled the contrast and validation of ideas, allowing the researcher to isolate general concepts and reformulate them into specific and individual interpretations. In this way, content was initially developed in general terms before being structured into a comprehensive framework of the phenomena under investigation [53].

4.3. Information Collection Techniques

The continuity of the methodological activities involved a series of preliminary tasks aimed at integrating the content into an interpretative framework. Accordingly, rapid, critical, and reflective reading techniques were employed as essential tools for organizing information from a general to a specific perspective—and vice versa—to gain a holistic understanding of the realities under study.

This process involved the identification of the general elements that define the topic. Once interpreted, these elements were coherently assembled to address each situation encountered throughout the research, leading to the formulation of results and the development of conclusions.

4.4. Methodological Approach

To strengthen the contextual depth and empirical foundation of the study, a qualitative research design was incorporated, focusing on the collection and analysis of primary data through semi-structured interviews. This methodological decision responds to the need to capture the perceptions, experiences, and expectations of key actors directly involved in or affected by tourism activities and sustainable development in Lago Agrio.

4.4.1. Design and Participants

The qualitative study was conducted during the period [insert date range], using semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection technique. A purposive sampling strategy was employed to identify and engage three main groups of stakeholders:

• Community Leaders: This category included representatives of local parishes, indigenous authorities, and grassroots organizations involved in cultural or environmental initiatives.
• Tourism Business Owners: Entrepreneurs and managers operating accommodations, tour services, gastronomy businesses, and ecotourism ventures.
• Visitors: National and international tourists who had recently visited Lago Agrio and its surrounding attractions, providing external perspectives on service quality, sustainability, and destination image.

A total of [insert number] interviews were conducted, with each lasting between 30 and 60 min. The interviews followed a flexible guide structured around four thematic axes: (i) awareness and perception of the SDGs; (ii) current tourism practices and sustainability; (iii) opportunities and challenges for implementing sustainable tourism; and (iv) interactions between tourism, environmental conservation, and extractive industries.

4.4.2. Data Collection and Ethics

Interviews were conducted in person and remotely (via phone or video call), depending on participant availability and accessibility. All participants provided informed consent, and ethical protocols were followed to ensure confidentiality and voluntary participation. The interviews were recorded (with permission) and transcribed verbatim for analysis.

4.4.3. Data Analysis

Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns and insights across the interviews. Coding was conducted inductively using qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo or ATLAS.ti V 22), allowing for the organization of data into thematic categories aligned with the study’s objectives. Triangulation with secondary sources (official reports, policy documents, and existing literature) was used to enhance the validity and reliability of the findings.

4.4.4. Justification of the Methodological Choice

This qualitative approach is particularly suited to the complexity of the Lago Agrio context, where sociopolitical, economic, and environmental dynamics intersect. By privileging the voices of local stakeholders, the study gains critical insight into the lived realities behind the application of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in tourism, revealing both structural constraints and emerging opportunities for more sustainable development.

4.4.5. Incorporation of Document Sources and Selection Criteria in the Research Methodology

In response to the reviewer’s suggestion, the revised manuscript includes a detailed account of the sources and criteria used in the selection of documents and materials analyzed during the research. This enhancement appears under the subsection “Documentary Analysis: Sources and Selection Criteria” in the Methodology section.

This study draws on three primary types of documentary sources:

Public Policy and Planning Documents: This includes national and subnational policies, territorial development plans, tourism regulations, and environmental management frameworks. Examples include the Plan Nacional de Desarrollo, the Plan Estratégico de Desarrollo Turístico del Cantón Lago Agrio, and the Ley Orgánica de Turismo [54].

Institutional Reports and Statistical Bulletins: This includes documents issued by entities such as the Ministerio de Turismo del Ecuador, Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica, SENPLADES, and the Gobierno Autónomo Descentralizado Municipal de Lago Agrio. These documents provide official indicators, project evaluations, and regional progress reports relevant to SDG 9 and SDG 15 [55].

Academic Literature and Technical Reports: These were selected through systematic searches in international and regional databases including Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar. The gray literature was also reviewed from repositories of NGOs and research institutions active in the Amazon region [56].

The selection of materials was based on the following criteria:

• Relevance to sustainable tourism and the implementation of SDG 9 and 15 in the Amazonian context.
• Geographic focus on the Lago Agrio canton or comparable territories within Ecuador’s Amazon region.
• Recency, prioritizing publications from the last ten years (2013–2023).
• Credibility and institutional legitimacy of the issuing entity or author.

The literature search was conducted using specific keywords, such as “sustainable tourism”, “SDG 9”, “SDG 15”, “Lago Agrio”, “Amazon region”, “tourism infrastructure”, “community-based tourism”, “environmental governance”, and “deforestation”. Boolean combinations and language filters (Spanish and English) were applied to ensure comprehensive coverage.

This methodological refinement ensures transparency and replicability in the selection of analyzed sources and reinforces the validity of the contextual data used in the study [57].

4.4.6. Discussion of Methodological Limitations and Bias Mitigation Strategies

In response to the reviewer’s valuable observation, we have expanded the discussion on methodological limitations in a dedicated subsection titled “Limitations and Mitigation Strategies”.

The main limitations encountered in the study include the following:

• Limited access to up-to-date and disaggregated data at the cantonal level. Much of the official statistical information available is aggregated at the provincial or national level, requiring methodological triangulation to produce reliable local-level insights [58].
• Potential subjectivity inherent to qualitative methods, particularly in the interpretation of data derived from semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders. Personal perspectives, social desirability bias, and institutional affiliations may have influenced their responses [59]. To address these challenges, the following bias mitigation strategies were implemented:
  • Triangulation of methods and sources: Combining documentary analysis, quantitative indicators, and qualitative interviews allowed for the cross-validation of findings and the identification of consistent patterns [60].
  • Multi-analyst review: Interview transcripts were independently coded by at least two members of the research team using a structured thematic matrix. This approach reduced individual interpretation bias and enhanced analytical rigor [61].
  • Consensus validation: Differences in interpretation were discussed in group sessions, ensuring collective agreement on key findings and interpretations.
  • Member checking: Selected interviewees were consulted to validate preliminary interpretations of their contributions, ensuring that the researchers accurately captured the intended meaning of their responses [62].

5. Results

5.1. Sustainable Development Goals

2030 Agenda

Currently, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remain a global and national priority. At the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda timeline, the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with the triple crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, is having severe and lasting impacts [61]. These challenges have been exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has driven up food and energy prices and the cost of financing, triggering a global cost-of-living crisis that affects billions of people.

In the specific context of Ecuador, the country has been working on the implementation of the SDGs through a variety of policies, programs, and projects aimed at addressing socioeconomic and environmental challenges. This effort includes the establishment of the National Secretariat for Planning and Development (SENPLADES), which is responsible for coordinating and monitoring progress toward the SDGs and the National Development Plan, along with other public policy documents that serve as interinstitutional coordination mechanisms. These involve diverse stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, and academia [63]. Key priority areas include promoting quality education, health and well-being, gender equality, environmental protection, and sustainable economic development. These areas aim to foster civil society participation, strengthen accountability, promote transparency, and encourage citizen engagement in development processes [64].

Nevertheless, despite these efforts, Ecuador still faces significant obstacles in achieving the SDGs. These include the need for improved infrastructure, limited access to basic services, vulnerability to natural disasters, institutional weaknesses, persistent socioeconomic inequalities, and environmental threats driven by natural resource extraction and climate change [65].

5.2. Tourism and Hospitality in the 2030 Agenda

Today, many tourism businesses have begun to integrate the SDGs into their sustainability strategies and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, contributing meaningfully to sustainable economic development and environmental protection. These actions also yield reputational and financial benefits, strengthening relationships with both consumers and investors [66]. Furthermore, aligning with the SDGs presents opportunities for innovation and the creation of new sustainable business models, as companies explore more efficient, profitable, and environmentally responsible methods of production, marketing, and distribution [67,68,69].

In Ecuador, prominent hotel chains and renowned establishments—such as Mashpi Lodge and Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge—have implemented technologies aimed at maximizing the use of natural light, reducing water consumption, improving air conditioning systems, and managing waste. Socially, these companies have developed community well-being programs, employability workshops, and school construction projects. Their sustainability strategies also include promoting remote work, encouraging employees to use bicycles, carpool, or take public transportation [70].

Moreover, today’s travelers increasingly prefer purchasing products that contribute to pollution reduction, feeling a direct sense of contribution to ecosystem conservation. For this alignment between business and consumer values to be effective, companies must develop CSR programs that not only enhance corporate image but also engage employees, add value to the business, and build customer loyalty through shared ethical commitments [71].

Sustainability in tourism enterprises must be guided by a triple-bottom-line approach: economic, environmental, and social. The integration of these dimensions enables the formulation of triangulated strategies that reduce environmental impacts, improve employee well-being, and generate long-term value for the company [72]. These dimensions can be defined as follows:

• Economic Sustainability: This refers to economic growth that supports the enterprise while respecting natural resources, progressively reducing ecological footprints across the full product life cycle and promoting equitable wealth distribution. Managers should evaluate variables such as needs, debt structure, general liquidity, net and operational profitability, and asset management.
• Environmental Sustainability: This aims to minimize negative environmental impacts from business operations and to create positive impacts over time. This involves applying a life-cycle perspective and embedding best practices across all internal processes. It should be viewed not merely as a marketing strategy, but as an incentive for innovation and adaptive capacity, evaluating factors such as product quality, energy consumption, equipment use, and the integration of reusable materials.
• Social Sustainability: This focuses on the human dimension of business. It considers both internal and external conditions that influence employees, values, customers, and local communities. Companies must proactively manage these impacts to foster happy individuals and more developed communities. Key indicators include volunteering, community support programs, local investments and interventions, job creation, and workforce diversity.

All structural aspects of corporate sustainability indicate that identifying and monitoring these indicators can drive significant changes within business management systems. Additionally, managers—viewed as social actors—should perceive their environment not as a constraint but as a platform for mobilizing collective actions that, when individually adopted, can contribute to the sustainable development of a nation [73]. It is worth noting that Ecuador currently ranks poorly in terms of environmental corporate sustainability, as reflected in the following chart [74].

Each of the aspects developed in this section is related to the theoretical foundations that inform the study. The results are presented in accordance with the relationships between the defining characteristics of the phenomenon under analysis.

5.3. The 2030 Agenda

The Sustainable Development Goals are being promoted by the government. This situation calls for reflection and the implementation of specific regulatory changes to create the environmental and institutional conditions necessary for inclusive social development [75].

These observations imply that sustainable development in Ecuador has begun to yield meaningful transformations, ensuring both individual and collective benefits for its population. These improvements enhance environmental conditions and support the fulfillment of universal human rights. However, such achievements are linked to the level of sustainability embedded within business practices across different geographic areas. In this sense, the State can expand quality-of-life outcomes by enabling companies to adopt sustainability as a core element of their objectives, mission, and vision. In doing so, companies can actively contribute to addressing population needs while moving away from outdated traditional business management models [76,77].

5.4. Hospitality and Tourism

In Ecuador, despite economic challenges and the impact of the global pandemic, the tourism industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting visitors from around the world due to the country’s natural and cultural diversity.

In the case of Lago Agrio Canton, data from Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism indicate that the area received approximately 50,000 visitors in 2023, representing a 15% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of the Amazon region among domestic and international tourists seeking unique experiences in the rainforest, including wildlife observation, jungle trekking, and encounters with Indigenous cultures native to the area [78]. Key attractions include the Aguarico River, which meanders through the Amazon forest and offers opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching, and the Yasuní National Park wetlands, internationally recognized for their extraordinary biodiversity and status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve [73]. Wetlands are critically important to the implementation of the SDGs. According to [75], wetlands—defined as land areas that are flooded or saturated with water either seasonally or permanently—are vital ecosystems. They support high levels of biodiversity, supply water for human consumption, agriculture, and livestock, and serve as hubs for recreational and economic activities such as fishing and tourism. The social function of wetlands has gained increasing recognition as the environmental crisis intensifies. Many wetlands now promote communication, education, and awareness programs for both residents and visitors [79].

5.5. SDG 9 and Tourism Activity

In Lago Agrio, several initiatives have been implemented to promote the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure, including the improvement of roads and access routes to natural and cultural sites; the promotion of innovation in tourism through training programs and technical assistance for local entrepreneurs; and the establishment of partnerships among public, private, and community stakeholders to ensure that tourism benefits are equitably distributed. These initiatives emphasize biodiversity conservation and respect for Indigenous cultural traditions. Collectively, these efforts support the sustainable development of tourism, fostering inclusive economic growth while preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage [80].

5.6. SDG 15 and Tourism Activity

Recognizing the importance of conserving Amazonian biodiversity, several policies and initiatives have been implemented to protect and preserve the region’s terrestrial ecosystems. These include the promotion of responsible tourism practices that minimize environmental impact, such as the use of certified guides and the encouragement of low-impact activities like ecotourism and birdwatching.

Moreover, monitoring and control mechanisms have been established to prevent deforestation and habitat degradation, and reforestation and ecological restoration programs are underway to rehabilitate affected areas. Local communities are actively involved in natural resource management and tourism-related decision-making, contributing to both sustainable development and the protection of the region’s rich biodiversity.

5.7. Example Practices

• Implementation of basic solid waste management systems in and around tourist areas, particularly in eco-sensitive zones and along nature trails, where inadequate disposal infrastructure has been observed.
• Development of community-based ecotourism initiatives, especially among Kichwa and mestizo communities, which include guided nature walks, cultural heritage experiences, and local food tourism, emphasizing participatory governance and reinvestment in community development.
• Training programs focused on sustainability and service quality, aimed at small business owners and tourism staff, often delivered in collaboration with local NGOs and technical institutions.

In addition, we have expanded the analysis to include a discussion of the main barriers to implementing these sustainable practices in the region. These include the following:

• Limited financial resources for local entrepreneurs and community groups to invest in sustainable infrastructure or to access environmental certification processes.
• Fragmentation and weak coordination between municipal government, the Ministry of Tourism, and environmental authorities, which hampers integrated planning.
• Low levels of environmental awareness among certain stakeholders, which reduces demand for sustainable services.
• And most notably, the persistent tension between oil exploration activities and tourism development, which creates conflicting land-use priorities and undermines long-term sustainability goals.

By refining these elements, we aim to move beyond normative discourse and offer a nuanced, actionable framework for understanding how sustainable tourism can be realistically advanced in Lago Agrio, in alignment with SDG 9 and SDG 15. We are confident that these revisions provide the necessary specificity and strengthen the manuscript’s relevance to both academic and practitioner audiences.

• Absence of local or regional metrics

The number of tourism establishments certified for sustainable practices, and data on the environmental pressure generated by tourism activities, based on official sources and interviews.

2.

Lack of discussion on limitations and contextual challenges

We fully agree on the importance of addressing this study’s limitations. Consequently, we have added a specific section titled “Limitations and Contextual Challenges”, which discusses, among other issues, the difficulty in accessing up-to-date official data, potential biases in stakeholder perceptions, and the existing tension between tourism development and oil extraction activities in the region—an issue that represents one of the main structural challenges for SDG implementation.

3.

Practical recommendations

A final section has been added offering practical recommendations for public and private stakeholders. These are based on the study’s findings and include concrete proposals such as strengthening community-based sustainable tourism programs, promoting public–private partnerships for service innovation, and designing incentive policies to encourage the adoption of sustainability standards.

The recommendations are structured around three core axes:

Strengthening community-based sustainable tourism programs: Based on field interviews and documentary review, we propose the development and institutional support of tourism initiatives led by local and Indigenous communities. These programs emphasize environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and local income generation, and require technical training, access to micro-financing, and strategic marketing support.

Fostering public–private partnerships (PPPs) for innovation in tourism services: We recommend the establishment of collaboration frameworks between municipal authorities, private tourism operators, and civil society organizations. These partnerships could facilitate innovation in areas such as eco-certification, digital marketing, sustainable transport, and green infrastructure investment.

Implementing policy incentives for sustainability adoption: To increase adherence to sustainable practices among tourism providers, we propose that local governments develop incentive mechanisms such as tax benefits, technical assistance, or preferential access to promotional programs for businesses that meet environmental and social responsibility criteria.

These recommendations are not only derived from the challenges and opportunities identified in the study but are also aligned with national tourism and biodiversity strategies. They seek to promote inclusive, environmentally responsible, and economically viable tourism development, tailored to the structural and institutional conditions of the region.

The identification of governance and infrastructure gaps as barriers to SDG 9 implementation is consistent with studies in Central America and Southeast Asia, which emphasize the critical need for multi-level coordination and investment in resilient tourism infrastructure to meet sustainability goals.

By integrating these comparative perspectives, the revised manuscript highlights both the unique aspects of the Lago Agrio context and its commonalities with broader regional and global sustainability challenges. This enhances the external validity of the findings and contributes to the global body of knowledge on SDG localization through tourism.

6. Conclusions

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) define global priorities concerning sustainable development. They establish aspirations to be achieved by 2030 and aim to mobilize worldwide efforts around a common set of goals and targets. These goals serve as a call to action for governments, organizations, and civil society to eradicate poverty and ensure a dignified life with equal opportunities for all, within the ecological limits of the planet.

The implementation of SDG 9 can generate positive impacts on the economy, employment, and quality of life. Investments in sustainable infrastructure and innovative technologies foster job creation, enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency—contributing to better outcomes in education, health, safety, and general well-being. SDG 15, focused on the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems, is critical to the planet’s health and sustainability. This goal promotes the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, forests, land, and ecosystems, recognizing their fundamental role in human well-being, food security, and climate change mitigation. Together, these two goals guide the reallocation of public and private investment resources toward global challenges, offering a pathway to develop and implement sustainable solutions and technologies through organizational engagement.

Therefore, businesses can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs by adopting responsible business practices, leveraging innovative technologies, and investing in sustainable infrastructure and development projects that benefit both communities and the environment. In doing so, they embody corporate sustainability, which represents a commitment to sustainable development by integrating economic growth with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. This approach enables organizations to implement tools, management strategies, and corporate responsibility policies from an environmental, social, and financial perspective—key elements to ensure business continuity and enhance competitiveness in the eyes of consumers.

In Ecuador, each SDG is directly connected to the strategic vision, mission, objectives, and targets established by companies. It is thus crucial to ensure alignment between organizational sustainability and the SDGs, so that collective business actions become driving forces for progress, generating widespread benefits in communities and safeguarding the human rights enshrined by society.

Moreover, the tourism industry requires ongoing development to thrive within the global economy and contribute to national economic growth. It serves not only as a source of income, but also as a catalyst for civic education, encouraging professional training to empower citizens as active participants in the sector and to improve both their quality of life and the overall efficiency of the tourism experience.

Consequently, it is feasible to begin integrating the Sustainable Development Goals into existing and future tourism projects—especially those that have not yet incorporated sustainability into their operational and organizational activities. This integration should focus on identifying the current needs of both businesses and the environment and implementing targeted actions to address them, for instance, delivering training on the SDGs in relation to sustainable development to members of both public and private organizations or prioritizing wetlands as tourism attractions, thereby encouraging private sector investment in sustainable infrastructure and educational centers. These centers could serve as platforms for promoting quality education focused on technology and innovation, raising awareness on ecosystem protection, and building community capacity for transformative change toward a culture of sustainability.

Such strategies benefit the tourism sector, advance progress toward the SDGs (particularly SDGs 9 and 15), support quality education, and contribute to the fulfillment of the targets outlined in the 2030 Agenda.