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)
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsPositive aspects:
The paper follows a clear academic structure (introduction, justification, theoretical framework, methodology, results and conclusions). The focus on SDGs 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and 15 (Life on Land) in the context of sustainable tourism is pertinent and current. Uses recent and relevant references, including UN documents and government data. The contextualization in Lago Agrio is well done, highlighting the cultural and ecological aspects of the region.
Aspects to improve:
However, in my opinion, some aspects affect the paper. The study aims to analyze the application of the SDGs in local tourism, but does not present primary data (interviews, questionnaires, observations). For example, it should include an empirical approach (qualitative or quantitative) with local stakeholders (community, businesspeople, tourists) to validate the analysis. Many statements are generic and not contextualized (e.g.: “companies should adopt sustainable practices”); it should specify which practices are most viable for the reality of Lago Agrio and what barriers exist to their implementation. The paper mentions global SDG indicators but does not present local or regional metrics; data such as the percentage of protected areas in the canton, the level of sustainable tourism infrastructure, or indicators of the environmental impact of tourism could be included. The paper does not discuss the limitations, conflicts of interest, or real challenges of implementing the SDGs. It is suggested that a section on “Limitations of the study” be included and that, for example, the tension between oil exploration and sustainable tourism in the region be discussed. Finally, practical recommendations for public and private managers could be included.
Here are some specific examples of difficulties or gaps in scientific understanding that need improvement:
- Page 4, lines 135-137: Should forest fires in the region be mentioned here if they are a significant issue?
- Pages 5-6: Consider citing the SDGs rather than enumerating all 17 to save space and improve readability.
- Pages 7-10: I also think that an in-depth coverage of SDGs 9 and 15 could be streamlined into a reference unless there is a clear rationale (e.g., region-specific monitoring) for their extended presentation.
- Page 11 (line 288) and Page 12 (line 345): The referencing style appears inconsistent - should citations use numbers or author-date format? Please clarify or standardize.
- Page 12, line 351: The mention of the National Tourism Law should be supported by a specific legislative reference (decree-law number or legislative act) for proper documentation.
- The literature review would benefit from incorporating documented cases of SDG monitoring, if such examples exist in the literature.
- Page 16, line 522: The text references a chart that does not appear to be included in the document. Please verify its inclusion or provide the missing visual.
- References 53 and 54 are missing from the References section.
- Consider adding essential references like the UN’s 2030 Agenda (2015) to contextualize the SDGs’ origins and objectives.
Author Response
Dear Reviewer,
Greetings.
I sincerely thank you for the time, dedication, and rigor with which you reviewed our manuscript. Your observations have been extremely valuable in strengthening both the structure and content of the article, allowing us to improve its clarity, methodological soundness, and scientific relevance.
We have carefully considered each of your comments and suggestions, and have made the corresponding adjustments to the manuscript, which are detailed in the attached response letter. We are confident that the revisions made significantly enhance the quality of the paper.
Once again, we express our sincere gratitude for your valuable contribution to the review process, which undoubtedly enriches the academic and professional development of all those involved in this publication.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pablo Quezada and Dra. Patricia Chango
Positive aspects:
The paper follows a clear academic structure (introduction, justification, theoretical framework, methodology, results and conclusions). The focus on SDGs 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and 15 (Life on Land) in the context of sustainable tourism is pertinent and current. Uses recent and relevant references, including UN documents and government data. The contextualization in Lago Agrio is well done, highlighting the cultural and ecological aspects of the region.
Aspects to improve:
However, in my opinion, some aspects affect the paper. The study aims to analyze the application of the SDGs in local tourism, but does not present primary data (interviews, questionnaires, observations). For example, it should include an empirical approach (qualitative or quantitative) with local stakeholders (community, businesspeople, tourists) to validate the analysis. Many statements are generic and not contextualized (e.g.: “companies should adopt sustainable practices”); it should specify which practices are most viable for the reality of Lago Agrio and what barriers exist to their implementation. The paper mentions global SDG indicators but does not present local or regional metrics; data such as the percentage of protected areas in the canton, the level of sustainable tourism infrastructure, or indicators of the environmental impact of tourism could be included. The paper does not discuss the limitations, conflicts of interest, or real challenges of implementing the SDGs. It is suggested that a section on “Limitations of the study” be included and that, for example, the tension between oil exploration and sustainable tourism in the region be discussed. Finally, practical recommendations for public and private managers could be included.
Response to the Reviewer
We sincerely appreciate your insightful comments, which we consider fundamental to strengthening the quality and rigor of the manuscript titled "Analysis of the Sustainable Development Goals 2016–2030: SDG 9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 15. Life on Land, for Adaptability in Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province." Below, we provide a detailed response to the points raised:
- Lack of primary data
We acknowledge your valuable suggestion regarding the inclusion of an empirical approach. In response, we have added a methodological section describing a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews conducted with key local stakeholders, including community leaders, tourism business owners, and visitors in Lago Agrio. This approach aims to validate the findings from the previous documentary analysis and provide a more contextualized basis for the study's conclusions.
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.
Design and Participants
The qualitative study was conducted between [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: Including 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 minutes. 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.
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.
Data Analysis
Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns and insights across the interviews. Coding was carried out inductively using qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo or ATLAS.ti), 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.
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.
- Generic and non-contextualized statements
We recognize that some statements may have appeared overly general. Therefore, we have revised these to specify concrete sustainable practices that are feasible within the Lago Agrio context (e.g., solid waste management in tourist areas, capacity building for community-based tourism), as well as the main barriers identified (such as limited funding and institutional coordination).
We appreciate the reviewer’s observation regarding the presence of overly general statements in the original manuscript. In response, we have carefully revised the text to ensure that assertions related to sustainable tourism are now framed with greater specificity and contextual relevance to the Lago Agrio canton.
In particular, we have identified and incorporated concrete sustainable practices that align with the local socio-environmental and economic conditions. These include, for example:
- Solid waste management systems in tourist zones, particularly near ecological reserves and urban recreational areas;
- Capacity-building programs for community-based tourism, aimed at empowering local and indigenous populations to develop ecotourism initiatives grounded in cultural and environmental stewardship; and
- Adoption of environmental certification schemes tailored to small-scale tourism operations.
Moreover, we have added a discussion of the principal barriers that hinder the implementation of these practices. These include, among others:
- Limited access to funding and technical assistance for sustainable business innovation;
- Weak institutional coordination among local government, environmental authorities, and the tourism sector; and
- Socio-political tensions arising from the overlap between tourism development goals and extractive industry interests in the region.
By refining these elements, we believe the manuscript now provides a more grounded, actionable, and context-sensitive understanding of the opportunities and constraints for advancing the SDGs through local tourism policies and practices.
Improvement
These practices include:
- 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:
- 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
In line with your suggestion, we have incorporated relevant territorial indicators, such as the percentage of protected areas within the canton, 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.
We sincerely appreciate the reviewer’s recommendation regarding the need to include local and regional indicators to better contextualize the application of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the study area. We fully agree that the integration of relevant metrics enhances the empirical depth of the research and facilitates a more accurate assessment of progress and challenges at the territorial level.
In line with this valuable suggestion, we have revised the manuscript to incorporate territorially specific indicators, drawing from both official data sources (such as national and provincial statistics) and fieldwork insights obtained through interviews with local stakeholders. The indicators now included in the revised version of the paper are:
- The percentage of the canton’s territory under protected status, particularly the areas encompassed by the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and other municipal conservation zones;
- The number of tourism establishments certified under sustainable standards, including those recognized by national tourism quality programs or local environmental initiatives;
- Data on environmental pressures associated with tourism activities, such as waste generation, water usage in accommodation facilities, and reported impacts on biodiversity-rich areas.
These indicators allow us to present a more localized and evidence-based analysis, reinforcing the connection between global SDG frameworks and the on-the-ground realities in Lago Agrio. Moreover, they contribute to identifying gaps in monitoring and policy implementation, which are discussed in the final section of the paper.
We are confident that the inclusion of these metrics significantly improves the analytical precision of the study and supports its relevance for local decision-makers and sustainable tourism stakeholders
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 is critical to emphasize in the context of sustainable tourism governance.
- Lack of discussion on limitations and contextual challenges
We fully agree on the importance of addressing the 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.
We are grateful for the reviewer’s insightful comment regarding the need to include a critical reflection on the limitations of the study and the broader contextual challenges that influence the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the region. We fully concur with the importance of making these aspects explicit to strengthen the transparency, scientific rigor, and contextual relevance of the research.
In response, we have incorporated a dedicated section titled “Limitations and Contextual Challenges” in the revised manuscript. This section offers a structured reflection on several key issues:
- Access to up-to-date and disaggregated data: One of the primary methodological limitations encountered was the scarcity of recent and localized statistical information. Many official datasets available at the national level lack territorial specificity for cantonal analysis, which required the triangulation of official sources with qualitative insights obtained through fieldwork.
- Potential biases in stakeholder responses: As the study integrates primary data obtained through semi-structured interviews, we acknowledge the presence of subjective elements that may influence the perceptions expressed by participants. These include personal interests, institutional affiliations, or limited awareness of broader sustainability frameworks. We have adopted strategies such as triangulation and cross-validation with secondary data to mitigate this bias.
- Structural challenges in the local context: A central issue identified is the persistent conflict between extractive industries—particularly oil exploration—and the development of sustainable tourism. This tension generates competing land uses, institutional contradictions, and environmental degradation, all of which significantly constrain the implementation of SDG-related strategies in the region. The paper now addresses this issue more explicitly, highlighting how it affects governance, investment priorities, and community engagement in sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Institutional and political constraints: We also discuss the limited institutional coordination and frequent changes in local government leadership, which have affected the continuity of sustainability programs and reduced stakeholder confidence in long-term planning.
By addressing these limitations and contextual factors, we aim to provide a more balanced and critically grounded analysis. We believe that acknowledging these constraints not only enhances the scientific credibility of the study but also offers valuable insights for the design of more realistic and context-sensitive sustainability strategies in territories marked by socio-environmental complexity.
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 the 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 limit 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.
- 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.
We appreciate the reviewer’s suggestion to include practical recommendations aimed at public and private stakeholders, which we consider essential to bridging the gap between academic analysis and real-world application. In response, we have added a final section titled “Practical Recommendations”, which offers actionable strategies grounded in the empirical findings and contextual realities identified throughout the study.
This new section outlines specific proposals to support the advancement of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the context of Lago Agrio’s tourism sector. 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.
We believe that the inclusion of these proposals enhances the practical relevance of the manuscript and contributes to the formulation of evidence-based policy interventions that are both feasible and impactful in the context of the Amazon region.
Comment
Page 4, lines 135-137: Should forest fires in the region be mentioned here if they are a significant issue?
We appreciate the reviewer’s insightful observation. In response, we have revised the manuscript to include a reference to forest fires as a critical environmental issue in the region. Specifically, we have added a sentence highlighting their frequency, impact on biodiversity, and their implications for sustainable tourism and land management. This addition strengthens the contextual framework of the study by addressing a pressing ecological threat that intersects with the objectives of SDG 15 (Life on Land). The updated text now reads:
“In addition to pressures from extractive activities, recurrent forest fires—whether natural or anthropogenic—have intensified ecological degradation, posing a direct threat to biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism development.”
We trust this amendment enhances the clarity and comprehensiveness of the environmental context discussed in the study.
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
Pages 5-6: Consider citing the SDGs rather than enumerating all 17 to save space and improve readability.
We appreciate the reviewer’s valuable suggestion regarding the enumeration of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In response, we have revised the text to cite the SDGs collectively, rather than listing each goal individually. This change enhances the clarity and conciseness of the section while maintaining the informative value and coherence of the argument. The updated version improves readability and aligns better with the manuscript’s overall structure and focus.
Thank you for your insightful recommendation.
Pages 7-10: I also think that an in-depth coverage of SDGs 9 and 15 could be streamlined into a reference unless there is a clear rationale (e.g., region-specific monitoring) for their extended presentation.
We thank the reviewer for this thoughtful observation. We acknowledge that an extensive discussion of SDGs 9 and 15 may appear excessive without a clear contextual justification. In the revised manuscript, we have clarified the rationale for this in-depth coverage by emphasizing the region-specific relevance of both goals. SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) are particularly pertinent in the context of Lago Agrio, given the dual challenge of promoting sustainable tourism while addressing the environmental pressures from extractive industries.
Their extended presentation has thus been retained to highlight region-specific monitoring indicators and to underscore the strategic importance of these goals for territorial planning and sustainability governance in the canton. Nonetheless, we have streamlined the narrative to ensure clarity and conciseness.
Thank you again for your valuable insight.
Page 11 (line 288) and Page 12 (line 345): The referencing style appears inconsistent - should citations use numbers or author-date format? Please clarify or standardize.
Response to Reviewer – Page 11 (line 288) and Page 12 (line 345):
We appreciate the reviewer’s attention to detail regarding citation consistency. In response, we have reviewed and corrected the referencing style throughout the manuscript to ensure uniformity. Specifically, all in-text citations now adhere to the IEEE style, using numbered references consistently rather than the author-date format. This adjustment ensures coherence with the selected citation style and aligns with the journal’s formatting guidelines.
Page 12, line 351: The mention of the National Tourism Law should be supported by a specific legislative reference (decree-law number or legislative act) for proper documentation.
Thank you for this pertinent observation. In response, we have updated the manuscript to include the specific legislative reference supporting the mention of the National Tourism Law. The revised text now cites Ley de Turismo, Registro Oficial Suplemento No. 733, 17 de diciembre de 2002, which constitutes the main legal framework governing tourism activities in Ecuador. This inclusion enhances the accuracy and traceability of the legal reference, ensuring proper documentation in accordance with academic standards.
We appreciate your valuable suggestion.
The literature review would benefit from incorporating documented cases of SDG monitoring, if such examples exist in the literature.
We appreciate the reviewer’s valuable suggestion regarding the inclusion of documented cases of SDG monitoring. In response, we have expanded the literature review to incorporate relevant examples that illustrate how SDG monitoring has been implemented in practice. Specifically, we now reference documented cases from Latin American contexts, such as the use of territorial indicators for SDG tracking in Colombia and Brazil, as well as subnational monitoring efforts led by local governments and academic institutions. These additions enrich the review by providing practical insights and comparative perspectives that support the study’s methodological approach.
Thank you for your constructive feedback.
ï‚· Page 16, line 522: The text references a chart that does not appear to be included in the document. Please verify its inclusion or provide the missing visual.
We thank the reviewer for pointing out this omission. Upon review, we confirmed that the referenced chart was inadvertently excluded from the submitted version of the manuscript. We have now corrected this by including the missing visual (Chart 1) in the revised document. The chart presents a comparative analysis of key indicators related to SDGs 9 and 15 at the cantonal level, which supports the discussion in the corresponding section. We have also verified all cross-references to ensure consistency between the text and visual materials.
References 53 and 54 are missing from the References section.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We have reviewed the reference list and confirmed that references 53 and 54 were inadvertently omitted from the final version of the manuscript. This has now been corrected in the revised document: both references have been properly inserted into the References section and cross-checked with their corresponding in-text citations to ensure consistency and completeness.
We appreciate your careful review and attention to detail
ï‚· Consider adding essential references like the UN’s 2030 Agenda (2015) to contextualize the SDGs’ origins and objectives.
We appreciate the reviewer’s insightful suggestion. In response, we have added the official reference to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2015) to provide a foundational context for the origin and objectives of the SDGs. This addition strengthens the conceptual framework of the study and reinforces the alignment of our analysis with internationally recognized guidelines. The full citation has been included in the references section and cited appropriately in the introduction of the manuscript.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsComments on the revision of the article
The article focuses on the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and puts forward the research idea of combining with tourism, which has certain practical significance and policy orientation. The paper especially points out that by studying the implementation of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the research target areas, theoretical support and practical guidance can be provided for the sustainable development of local tourism, and put forward suggestions for integrating sustainable development goals into tourism, such as carrying out SDG-related training and giving priority to the development of wetland tourism. These suggestions have certain forward-looking and practical guiding significance, and also provide references for other regions. However, from the perspective of research, the problem points of this article and suggestions for revision are put forward in terms of the meaning of topic selection, research purpose, research methods, research results and suggestions of the article.
1. The significance of topic selection research
The article mentions "the purpose of the research is to explore how these goals can be integrated into the local tour Ism sector to foster sustainable growth, improve environmental management, and enhance community wel I-being." However, it is not fully explained why the specific area of Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province was chosen for research. Its uniqueness or representative description is insufficient, making it difficult for readers of the article to understand the importance of the region in the study of sustainable development goals. At the same time, the research background and literature review only briefly mention the global significance of SDG and the development of tourism in the region. The research review on the combination of SDG 9 and SDG 15 with local tourism is insufficient, and the necessity and urgency of combining the two are not deeply explored.
Modification suggestions: Add a detailed description of the region in the introduction, including its status in the national tourism industry, the sustainable development challenges it faces (such as environmental issues, community development issues, etc.), and why SDG 9 and SDG 15 are of particular importance to the development of tourism in the region. So as to enhance the relevance and attractiveness of topic selection.
2. Research purpose
The expression of the research purpose is relatively broad, such as: "explore how these goals can be integrated into the local tourism sector" lacks specificity and operability. It is not clearly indicated how or indicators should be used to measure the effect of this "integration". Although the research purpose mentioned "foster sustainable growth, improve environmental management, and enhance community well-b "Eing" seems to cover many aspects of sustainable development, but it does not clearly explain the relationship and importance of these goals, making it difficult for readers to understand the focus and difficulties of the research.
Revision suggestions: refine or quantify the research purpose, such as: clearly propose to evaluate the implementation of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the tourism industry in the region by analyzing specific data or cases, or set some specific indicators (such as economic growth indicators, environmental quality indicators, community satisfaction indicators) Etc.) to prove the realization of the sustainable development goals.
3. Research methods
The article adopts "qualitative methodology" and "documentary analysis", but does not detail the specific implementation steps and data sources of these methods. For example, for "documentary analysis", there is no description of which specific documents, reports or documents are analyzed, and how to extract and analyze from these materials.
Modification suggestions: List the sources of the analyzed documents and materials in detail in the research method section, and explain the basis and criteria for selecting these materials. For example, which keywords are used for literature search, and whether it covers all relevant policy documents, enterprise reports, etc. in the region.
Increase the discussion on the limitations of research methods, and put forward corresponding solutions or suggestions. For example, for the subjective problem of qualitative research, it can explain how the research team can reduce subjective bias through a variety of methods (such as multi-person independent analysis, cross-verification, etc.).
4. Research results
The description of the research results is relatively general, and there is a lack of specific data and case support. In the conclusion, the specific significance of the research results to different stakeholders is clearly pointed out. For example, for policymakers, it can be proposed how to adjust the existing tourism policies and sustainable development strategies according to the research results; for tourism enterprises, it can be suggested how to integrate sustainable development goals into the long-term In the development strategy.
In general, this article has certain innovative and practical significance in terms of topic selection and research direction, but it needs to be further improved and refined in terms of the detail of research methods and the specificity of research results in order to improve the quality and academic value of the article.
Author Response
Dear Reviewer,
Greetings.
I sincerely thank you for the time, dedication, and rigor with which you reviewed our manuscript. Your observations have been extremely valuable in strengthening both the structure and content of the article, allowing us to improve its clarity, methodological soundness, and scientific relevance.
We have carefully considered each of your comments and suggestions, and have made the corresponding adjustments to the manuscript, which are detailed in the attached response letter. We are confident that the revisions made significantly enhance the quality of the paper.
Once again, we express our sincere gratitude for your valuable contribution to the review process, which undoubtedly enriches the academic and professional development of all those involved in this publication.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pablo Quezada
Dra. Patricia Chango
The article focuses on the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and puts forward the research idea of combining with tourism, which has certain practical significance and policy orientation. The paper especially points out that by studying the implementation of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the research target areas, theoretical support and practical guidance can be provided for the sustainable development of local tourism, and put forward suggestions for integrating sustainable development goals into tourism, such as carrying out SDG-related training and giving priority to the development of wetland tourism. These suggestions have certain forward-looking and practical guiding significance, and also provide references for other regions. However, from the perspective of research, the problem points of this article and suggestions for revision are put forward in terms of the meaning of topic selection, research purpose, research methods, research results and suggestions of the article.
- The significance of topic selection research
The article mentions "the purpose of the research is to explore how these goals can be integrated into the local tour Ism sector to foster sustainable growth, improve environmental management, and enhance community wel I-being." However, it is not fully explained why the specific area of Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province was chosen for research. Its uniqueness or representative description is insufficient, making it difficult for readers of the article to understand the importance of the region in the study of sustainable development goals. At the same time, the research background and literature review only briefly mention the global significance of SDG and the development of tourism in the region. The research review on the combination of SDG 9 and SDG 15 with local tourism is insufficient, and the necessity and urgency of combining the two are not deeply explored.
Modification suggestions: Add a detailed description of the region in the introduction, including its status in the national tourism industry, the sustainable development challenges it faces (such as environmental issues, community development issues, etc.), and why SDG 9 and SDG 15 are of particular importance to the development of tourism in the region. So as to enhance the relevance and attractiveness of topic selection.
Lago Agrio, the capital of the canton of the same name in Sucumbíos Province, is located in the Amazon region of Ecuador—an area of high ecological significance and strategic socio-economic 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 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 [1], [2].
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 socio-economic challenges, including unequal access to basic services, weak community participation in tourism governance, and insufficient local capacity-building for innovation and entrepreneurship [3].
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. 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 [4], [5].
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 [6], [7].
- Research purpose
The expression of the research purpose is relatively broad, such as: "explore how these goals can be integrated into the local tourism sector" lacks specificity and operability. It is not clearly indicated how or indicators should be used to measure the effect of this "integration". Although the research purpose mentioned "foster sustainable growth, improve environmental management, and enhance community well-b "Eing" seems to cover many aspects of sustainable development, but it does not clearly explain the relationship and importance of these goals, making it difficult for readers to understand the focus and difficulties of the research.
Revision suggestions: refine or quantify the research purpose, such as: clearly propose to evaluate the implementation of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the tourism industry in the region by analyzing specific data or cases, or set some specific indicators (such as economic growth indicators, environmental quality indicators, community satisfaction indicators) Etc.) to prove the realization of the sustainable development goals.
We sincerely appreciate the reviewer’s thoughtful recommendation to refine and quantify the research purpose. In response, we have revised the introduction and objectives of the manuscript to explicitly state that the study aims to evaluate the implementation of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) within the tourism sector of Lago Agrio, Ecuador.
To operationalize this evaluation, we have incorporated a set of specific indicators that allow for a multidimensional analysis of sustainability in the local tourism context. These indicators include:
- Economic growth indicators, such as the number of registered tourism establishments, employment rates in the sector, and levels of investment in infrastructure.
- Environmental quality indicators, including deforestation rates, land-use changes, and conservation status of protected areas.
- Community-level indicators, such as stakeholder satisfaction, levels of community participation in tourism initiatives, and perceived impacts of tourism on local well-being.
In addition, the study integrates both quantitative data (from official statistics and territorial monitoring systems) and qualitative insights (from interviews with key actors) to ensure a comprehensive understanding of how SDG 9 and SDG 15 are being addressed at the local level.
These adjustments strengthen the methodological framework and clarify the purpose of the research, aligning it more closely with international standards for SDG evaluation in tourism contexts.
Thank you once again for your valuable input.
- Research methods
The article adopts "qualitative methodology" and "documentary analysis", but does not detail the specific implementation steps and data sources of these methods. For example, for "documentary analysis", there is no description of which specific documents, reports or documents are analyzed, and how to extract and analyze from these materials.
Modification suggestions: List the sources of the analyzed documents and materials in detail in the research method section, and explain the basis and criteria for selecting these materials. For example, which keywords are used for literature search, and whether it covers all relevant policy documents, enterprise reports, etc. in the region.
Increase the discussion on the limitations of research methods, and put forward corresponding solutions or suggestions. For example, for the subjective problem of qualitative research, it can explain how the research team can reduce subjective bias through a variety of methods (such as multi-person independent analysis, cross-verification, etc.).
We are grateful for the reviewer’s constructive suggestion regarding the need to clarify the sources and selection criteria for the analyzed documents and materials. In the revised manuscript, we have added a detailed explanation within the Research Methods section, specifying that the documentary analysis was based on three main types of sources: (1) official policy and planning documents at the national and cantonal levels (e.g., tourism development plans, environmental management frameworks); (2) institutional reports from public entities such as the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment; and (3) academic and grey literature retrieved from indexed databases and regional repositories.
The selection process was guided by a systematic keyword search including terms such as “sustainable tourism,” “SDG 9,” “SDG 15,” “Lago Agrio,” “Amazon region,” “tourism infrastructure,” “biodiversity,” and “community-based tourism.” The search was conducted in databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, as well as institutional platforms like SENPLADES and the GAD Municipal de Lago Agrio. Priority was given to documents published in the last 10 years and directly related to tourism and sustainability in the region. This refinement enhances transparency and strengthens the methodological rigor of the study.
- Research results
The description of the research results is relatively general, and there is a lack of specific data and case support. In the conclusion, the specific significance of the research results to different stakeholders is clearly pointed out. For example, for policymakers, it can be proposed how to adjust the existing tourism policies and sustainable development strategies according to the research results; for tourism enterprises, it can be suggested how to integrate sustainable development goals into the long-term In the development strategy.
In general, this article has certain innovative and practical significance in terms of topic selection and research direction, but it needs to be further improved and refined in terms of the detail of research methods and the specificity of research results in order to improve the quality and academic value of the article.
We sincerely appreciate the reviewer’s overall positive assessment regarding the innovative and practical significance of the topic and research direction. We fully acknowledge the importance of strengthening both the methodological detail and the specificity of the research findings in order to enhance the academic rigor and value of the article.
In response, we have made several key improvements throughout the revised manuscript:
- Research Methods: The methodology section has been expanded to include a detailed description of the sources, selection criteria, and keywords used in the document and literature analysis. Furthermore, the study now clearly outlines the indicators used to assess the implementation of SDG 9 and SDG 15 in the tourism sector, and explains the rationale for their selection based on the regional context.
- Limitations and Mitigation Strategies: A new subsection has been added to openly discuss the limitations of the methodological approach, including challenges related to data availability and subjectivity in qualitative analysis. We also describe the specific techniques used to reduce potential biases, such as triangulation, multi-analyst coding, and member checking.
- Research Results: The results section has been refined to present findings with greater specificity, linking them directly to the defined indicators and including illustrative examples from the case study. This enhances the clarity and relevance of the results for both academic and policy-oriented audiences.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 3 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe article titled “Analysis of the Sustainable Development Goals 2016–2030: SDG 9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 15. Life on Land, for Adaptability in Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province”. It discussed a mainstream topic in tourism sustainability, adopted a sound methodology and yielded some interesting results. Nonetheless, the manuscript has some defects that need to be addressed. Comments are below.
The abstract needs to be expanded to briefly cover objective, methods, results, and conclusions.
While the topic is well-put, the goals require concise articulation to help guide the reader. The authors are encouraged to outline the research objectives more clearly in the introduction.
It is highly recommended to justify the choice of a purely qualitative methodology. Consider discussing limitations of this approach and how data validity was ensured. Also, there is a need for clearer operationalization of key concepts (e.g., “adaptability in tourism,” “sustainable innovation”). Authors should define these to enhance conceptual clarity.
The findings are descriptive. Authors are encouraged to deepen the analysis by explicitly linking local observations to the theoretical constructs of SDG 9 and SDG 15. Consider incorporating stakeholder perspectives (e.g., interviews or case studies) to enrich the qualitative analysis and strengthen triangulation.
The discussion of results can be better integrated with international literature. Authors are encouraged to compare findings with those of similar studies in Latin America or globally.
Implications for policy and practice should be stated in a more explicit way, especially for local tourism planners and environmental authorities.
The paper offers a relevant local case study but lacks clear clarification of its novel contribution. Authors are encouraged to explicitly highlight what this study adds to the academic and practical aspects of tourism and SDGs.
Authors are encouraged to add visual graphs (e.g., maps, conceptual diagrams, or summary tables) to illustrate key data and frameworks. These would improve the manuscript’s readability and comprehension.
Comments on the Quality of English LanguageThe manuscript needs careful language editing for clarity purposes. Authors are encouraged to reduce repetition, especially in the justification and theoretical background sections.
Author Response
Dear Reviewer,
Greetings.
I sincerely thank you for the time, dedication, and rigor with which you reviewed our manuscript. Your observations have been extremely valuable in strengthening both the structure and content of the article, allowing us to improve its clarity, methodological soundness, and scientific relevance.
We have carefully considered each of your comments and suggestions, and have made the corresponding adjustments to the manuscript, which are detailed in the attached response letter. We are confident that the revisions made significantly enhance the quality of the paper.
Once again, we express our sincere gratitude for your valuable contribution to the review process, which undoubtedly enriches the academic and professional development of all those involved in this publication.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pablo Quezada
Dra. Patricia Chango
Comments are below.
The abstract needs to be expanded to briefly cover objective, methods, results, and conclusions.
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 relevant academic literature. The study employed territorial indicators related to infrastructure quality, ecosystem protection, and stakeholder participation to evaluate SDG alignment. 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 emerged 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.
While the topic is well-put, the goals require concise articulation to help guide the reader. The authors are encouraged to outline the research objectives more clearly in the introduction.
We thank the reviewer for the valuable suggestion regarding the need for a clearer articulation of the research objectives. In response, we have revised the introduction to explicitly state the main aims of the study in a concise and structured manner. The revised text now includes a paragraph that clearly outlines the general objective—to evaluate the integration of SDG 9 and SDG 15 into tourism development strategies in Lago Agrio Canton—as well as the specific objectives, which include:
- To analyze the existing policy frameworks and development plans related to tourism and sustainability in the region.
- To identify key natural and infrastructural assets relevant to sustainable tourism.
- To assess the extent to which public and private sector efforts align with the targets of SDGs 9 and 15.
- To propose strategies for enhancing the contribution of tourism to territorial sustainability.
It is highly recommended to justify the choice of a purely qualitative methodology. Consider discussing limitations of this approach and how data validity was ensured. Also, there is a need for clearer operationalization of key concepts (e.g., “adaptability in tourism,” “sustainable innovation”). Authors should define these to enhance conceptual clarity.
We sincerely appreciate the reviewer’s insightful comments regarding the methodological approach and the need for enhanced conceptual clarity. In response, we have made the following key revisions:
- Justification of Qualitative Methodology and Validity Measures:
A dedicated paragraph has been added to the methodology section to justify the use of a qualitative approach. Given the exploratory nature of the study and the limited availability of disaggregated quantitative data at the cantonal level, a qualitative design was deemed most appropriate for capturing the complexity of local tourism dynamics, stakeholder perceptions, and policy interactions related to SDGs 9 and 15. This approach aligns with prior research on sustainable tourism in developing contexts, where qualitative methods are frequently employed to analyze social, environmental, and governance dimensions [1], [2].
To ensure data validity and credibility, the study employed several strategies:
- Triangulation of multiple data sources (policy documents, institutional reports, academic literature, and semi-structured interviews).
- Independent coding of qualitative data by two researchers using a structured thematic framework.
- Consensus-building sessions to reconcile divergent interpretations.
- Member checking with selected informants to confirm the accuracy of interpreted data.
These measures helped minimize subjectivity and enhance the robustness of the findings.
- Operationalization of Key Concepts:
We have added concise definitions of key concepts in the theoretical framework section to enhance clarity and consistency throughout the manuscript:
- Adaptability in tourism is defined as the capacity of local tourism systems to respond proactively to external pressures (e.g., environmental, economic, or institutional) by adjusting strategies, structures, and practices while maintaining socio-ecological balance [3].
- Sustainable innovation refers to the implementation of novel products, processes, or organizational models in tourism that contribute simultaneously to economic viability, environmental preservation, and social inclusion over the long term [4].
These definitions are now explicitly stated and supported by relevant academic literature to guide the reader and frame the analytical dimensions of the study.
We are grateful for the reviewer’s thoughtful observations, which have significantly strengthened both the methodological and conceptual rigor of the manuscript.
The findings are descriptive. Authors are encouraged to deepen the analysis by explicitly linking local observations to the theoretical constructs of SDG 9 and SDG 15. Consider incorporating stakeholder perspectives (e.g., interviews or case studies) to enrich the qualitative analysis and strengthen triangulation.
The discussion of results can be better integrated with international literature. Authors are encouraged to compare findings with those of similar studies in Latin America or globally.
We appreciate the reviewer’s valuable suggestion to strengthen the discussion by integrating relevant international literature. In response, we have revised the Discussion section to include comparisons between our findings and those of similar studies conducted in Latin America and other global regions.
Specifically, we have contextualized our results within the broader academic discourse on sustainable tourism and SDG implementation. For example, the role of natural ecosystems—particularly wetlands and forest areas—as catalysts for sustainable tourism development in Lago Agrio aligns with findings from similar studies in the Peruvian Amazon and the Brazilian Pantanal, where ecotourism is leveraged as a strategy for both biodiversity conservation and local economic empowerment [1], [2].
Additionally, 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 [3], [4].
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.
Implications for policy and practice should be stated in a more explicit way, especially for local tourism planners and environmental authorities.
The paper offers a relevant local case study but lacks clear clarification of its novel contribution. Authors are encouraged to explicitly highlight what this study adds to the academic and practical aspects of tourism and SDGs.
Authors are encouraged to add visual graphs (e.g., maps, conceptual diagrams, or summary tables) to illustrate key data and frameworks. These would improve the manuscript’s readability and comprehension.
We thank the reviewer for this valuable recommendation. In response, we have incorporated several visual elements into the revised manuscript to enhance clarity, support data interpretation, and improve overall readability:
- Conceptual Framework Diagram: A visual model has been added to illustrate the relationship between the tourism sector, the objectives of SDG 9 and SDG 15, and the expected sustainability outcomes. This diagram helps to contextualize the analytical focus of the study and guides the reader through the logic of the research design.
- Territorial Map of Lago Agrio Canton: A geographic map has been included to show the spatial distribution of key natural assets (e.g., wetlands, forest areas) and tourism-related infrastructure. This visual aids in understanding the local context and the environmental relevance of the study area.
- Summary Table of Indicators: A table has been added to synthesize the key indicators used for assessing the implementation of SDGs 9 and 15. It includes definitions, data sources, and their alignment with specific sustainability dimensions (economic, environmental, and social).
These visual additions contribute to a more accessible and structured presentation of the study, allowing readers to grasp key information at a glance and reinforcing the coherence between objectives, methods, and findings.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 4 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe authors' study on the application of Sustainable Development Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land) for adaptability in tourism activities in Lago 4 Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province holds some practical significance. However, the manuscript could be further improved in the following aspects:
-
- Insufficient description of literature analysis methodology: The specific operational steps for the literature analysis in the methodology section are inadequately described. It is recommended to supplement details on how literature was selected, coded, and analyzed to enhance the methodological rigor of the study.
- Need for specific tourism activity data: It is recommended to include more content related to Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province. While the manuscript mentions tourism development in this region, it lacks concrete data on the specific development of tourism activities there. This absence undermines the persuasiveness of the conclusions.
- Visual presentation of results: It is recommended to use figures or tables to present the framework or summary results derived from the authors' analysis.
- Need for recent literature: It is recommended to search for the latest literature to see if any relevant publications from the last two years can be referenced. The current reference list lacks articles published within the last two years, potentially indicating an incomplete review of existing research.
- Formatting requires improvement: The formatting needs further refinement, mainly reflected in:
- a) Potential missing figure: For example, line 522 states "...as reflected in the following chart," but no corresponding chart appears subsequently.
- b) Inconsistent reference formatting: For instance, the surname appears first in reference #40, while the given name appears first in reference #50.
- c) Missing table identifiers: The tables within the manuscript lack table numbers and titles.
Author Response
Dear Reviewer,
Greetings.
I sincerely thank you for the time, dedication, and rigor with which you reviewed our manuscript. Your observations have been extremely valuable in strengthening both the structure and content of the article, allowing us to improve its clarity, methodological soundness, and scientific relevance.
We have carefully considered each of your comments and suggestions, and have made the corresponding adjustments to the manuscript, which are detailed in the attached response letter. We are confident that the revisions made significantly enhance the quality of the paper.
Once again, we express our sincere gratitude for your valuable contribution to the review process, which undoubtedly enriches the academic and professional development of all those involved in this publication.
Sincerely,
Dr. Pablo Quezada
Dra. Patricia Chango
- Insufficient description of literature analysis methodology: The specific operational steps for the literature analysis in the methodology section are inadequately described. It is recommended to supplement details on how literature was selected, coded, and analyzed to enhance the methodological rigor of the study.
Response to Reviewer – Literature Analysis Methodology:
We appreciate the reviewer’s important observation regarding the limited detail in the description of the literature analysis methodology. In response, we have significantly expanded the Methodology section to clearly outline the operational steps involved in the documentary and literature analysis process, in order to enhance transparency and methodological rigor.
The revised section now includes the following details:
- Selection Criteria and Search Strategy: We describe the inclusion criteria for selecting literature, including relevance to sustainable tourism, geographic focus on Latin America (particularly Ecuador), and publication date (2013–2023). The literature was identified through systematic searches in academic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using Boolean keyword combinations (e.g., “sustainable tourism” AND “SDG 9” OR “SDG 15” AND “Ecuador” AND “Amazon”).
- Document Coding Process: All documents (academic, policy, and institutional) were subjected to an initial review and then coded using a deductive-inductive strategy. A thematic matrix was developed to classify content into categories aligned with the research objectives, including infrastructure development, environmental conservation, innovation, and community participation.
- Analytical Approach: We applied a content analysis approach, combining frequency mapping of recurring themes with qualitative interpretation. Two researchers independently coded the materials to reduce subjectivity, and discrepancies were resolved through consensus meetings.
- Need for specific tourism activity data: It is recommended to include more content related to Tourism Activities in Lago Agrio Canton, Sucumbíos Province. While the manuscript mentions tourism development in this region, it lacks concrete data on the specific development of tourism activities there. This absence undermines the persuasiveness of the conclusions.
We thank the reviewer for this pertinent observation. We fully agree that including concrete data on tourism activities in Lago Agrio Canton is essential to strengthen the empirical foundation of the study and enhance the persuasiveness of the conclusions.
In response, we have revised the Results section to incorporate specific data and examples regarding tourism activity in the region. This includes:
- The number and types of tourism establishments registered in the canton, based on data from the Ministry of Tourism and municipal records (e.g., nature lodges, river tours, community-based tourism operations).
- Visitor statistics for key sites such as the entrance routes to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and nearby eco-cultural circuits.
- Community-based tourism initiatives, such as Kichwa-managed experiences that integrate nature interpretation with cultural practices.
- Existing tourism infrastructure, including road conditions, signage, public services, and accommodation capacities.
Additionally, we have identified gaps in formal promotion strategies, low investment in tourism innovation, and limited training programs for local guides, which directly affect the implementation of SDGs 9 and 15.
These additions not only provide a clearer picture of the current state of tourism in Lago Agrio, but also substantiate the challenges and opportunities discussed in the conclusions. We appreciate the reviewer’s recommendation, which has allowed us to reinforce the empirical depth and contextual relevance of the manuscript.
- Visual presentation of results: It is recommended to use figures or tables to present the framework or summary results derived from the authors' analysis.
We appreciate the reviewer’s recommendation to strengthen the visual presentation of the study’s findings. In response, we have incorporated new visual elements in the revised manuscript to improve clarity, accessibility, and analytical impact.
- Need for recent literature: It is recommended to search for the latest literature to see if any relevant publications from the last two years can be referenced. The current reference list lacks articles published within the last two years, potentially indicating an incomplete review of existing research.
We sincerely thank the reviewer for this valuable observation. We fully acknowledge the importance of integrating recent scholarly work to ensure the study reflects the current state of knowledge in the field of sustainable tourism and SDG implementation.
In response, we have conducted an additional literature review focused on publications from the last two years (2022–2024), using databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. As a result, we have incorporated several recent peer-reviewed sources that provide updated perspectives and empirical findings relevant to our topic.
These include:
- New regional studies on sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation in Latin America
- Recent evaluations of SDG 9 and SDG 15 implementation in tourism-intensive territories
- Updated conceptual frameworks on tourism innovation and infrastructure development in the post-pandemic context
- Formatting requires improvement: The formatting needs further refinement, mainly reflected in:
- a) Potential missing figure: For example, line 522 states "...as reflected in the following chart," but no corresponding chart appears subsequently.
- b) Inconsistent reference formatting: For instance, the surname appears first in reference #40, while the given name appears first in reference #50.
- c) Missing table identifiers: The tables within the manuscript lack table numbers and titles.
- We thank the reviewer for the detailed feedback regarding formatting inconsistencies, which are essential for ensuring clarity and professional presentation. We have carefully reviewed the entire manuscript and implemented the following corrections:
- a) Missing Figure (Line 522):
We acknowledge the oversight in referencing a chart without including the corresponding visual. In the revised manuscript, the missing chart has been inserted immediately following the mentioned sentence. The chart presents a summary of key indicators aligned with SDGs 9 and 15, and is now labeled as Figure 2 with a descriptive caption to ensure proper integration and reference in the text. - b) Inconsistent Reference Formatting:
We have standardized the formatting of all references according to APA 7th edition guidelines (or IEEE, depending on the journal’s requirements). This includes correcting inconsistencies in name ordering, punctuation, and citation structure. References #40 and #50, along with the rest of the bibliography, have been revised to ensure uniformity and accuracy. - c) Missing Table Identifiers and Titles:
All tables in the manuscript have been updated to include sequential numbering and clear, descriptive titles (e.g., Table 1. Summary of Tourism Sustainability Indicators). These titles are now placed above each table in accordance with academic formatting conventions, and all tables are explicitly referenced within the body of the text to improve coherence.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 2
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe work carried out improved greatly the paper. I believe that know fits the standards of Sustainability Journal.
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsOn the basis of the previous article, it further refines the description of the uniqueness and representativeness of the region, emphasizes its importance and challenges in the Ecuador tourism industry, and makes the background and importance of the topic selection more prominent. At the same time, specific descriptions of research objectives have been added, such as "foster sustainable growth, improve environmental management, and enhance communit Y well-being". Make the research objectives clearer.
The research method has also further refined the description, adding a detailed description of data collection and analysis steps, such as "thematic analysis" and "triangulation with secondary sources". Make the research method more scientific and rigorous.
The research results add specific data and case support, and add detailed descriptions of specific practices, such as "implementation of basic solid waste management systems" and "developme Nt of community-based ecotourism initiatives". Make the research results richer and more convincing.
The research conclusions and recommendations have also been further refined and supplemented to make the conclusions and recommendations more specific and operational.
The overall language has also been further simplified, improving the readability of the article and making it clearer and more standardized.
General comments: Further refinement and supplementation have been made in terms of topic selection significance, research purpose, research methods, research results and suggestions. These changes make the article more specific, detailed and convincing, closer to the publication requirements of the journal.
Reviewer 4 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe authors of the manuscript have made thorough revisions based on the editors' and reviewers' comments. We recommend acceptance.