Sustainable Tourism and Use of Natural Resources—Contemporary Practices and Management Challenges

Natural resources and tourism are subjects of permanent interest to society and researchers across various levels of expertise. It has been well recognized that analyzing the usage of natural resources and its contribution to strategic management, decision-making policies, and sustainable growth is crucial to enable progressive development in various socioeconomic activities, including tourism. As an economic activity, tourism is highly dependent on the environment and a wide range of natural resources [1], including landscapes, relief, water resources, climatic features, soil, biodiversity, and others.

Tourism and natural resources are inextricably linked through various complex relations. Generally, tourism is considered a double-edged sword for the use and conservation of natural resources. Tourism can contribute to natural resource conservation and provide social benefits to communities if managed sustainably. Thus, natural heritage can provide socioeconomic benefits through tourism, which are crucial for society’s development. In contrast, tourism can devastate the environment due to unsustainable consumption and use of natural resources. This apparent conflict between these two functions requires careful management that is attuned to site-specific conditions. In this respect, research on the positive/negative effects of tourism contributes to a better understanding of the links between tourism and natural resources and provides important guidance on natural resource management.

In the last several decades, the importance of rational natural resource use, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism development has been particularly emphasized through various international and national activities, declarations, and proclamations. In the 2030 Agenda, the United Nations (UN) introduced sustainable development goals, some of which are directly aimed at the sustainable management of natural resources. The United Nations designated 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. In 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted a Resolution declaring 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism.

Worldwide, urbanization and globalization have intensified the extraction of natural resources. Sustainable development refers to the use of natural resources in a way that does not compromise the needs and well-being of future generations. To reduce the welfare loss caused by resource extraction, it is essential to reinvest the revenue from natural resources into other forms of capital [2]. Countries with limited human and produced capital have a chance to reinvest some of their depleted natural resources, which could potentially lead to a net gain in wealth [3]. As a result, the need to promote sustainable and responsible tourism has been recognized, and this concept has been proposed as a means to ensure long-term benefits and minimize environmental impacts.

Sustainable tourism is dedicated to creating long-term economic, social, and environmental benefits for society [4]. It is a constructive concept designed to alleviate the tensions arising from the complex relationships between the tourism industry, the environment, and local communities. By fostering a more harmonious balance, it seeks to promote cooperation and mutual benefit among these interconnected sectors. Sustainable tourism must meet the needs of current tourists and destinations while also ensuring opportunities for future development, all while preserving the integrity of heritage, ecosystems, biodiversity, and life support systems [5]. Through this approach, the challenges inherent in these relationships can be addressed in a way that is both fair and sustainable for all stakeholders involved. Some countries have established funds using tourism revenues to protect biodiversity and natural resources [6], thereby highlighting sustainable tourism as an approach that enhances both human and environmental well-being.

If tourism is understood as a potentially sustainable product of nature, the implementation of tourism activities must be accompanied by an environmental impact assessment (EIA) [7]. Policies aimed at conserving natural resources have the potential to significantly boost tourism activities by promoting sustainable practices and preserving the attractions that draw visitors. Also, the implementation of sustainable tourism strategies depends on the stage of development within the tourism sector and the environmental regulations in place [8]. Sustainable tourism cannot be achieved without proper planning, monitoring, evaluation, and management.

The development of sustainable nature-based tourism or ecotourism can only succeed when the actions of all stakeholders are ecologically, economically, and ethically responsible, and these actions must align with criteria that prioritize sustainability as the core objective [9]. In order to examine these relationships and conditions, numerous contemporary studies, which are focused on the use of natural resources, have been conducted. There has been considerable attention given to the risks associated with tourism that is dependent on natural resources [10,11]. These studies provided novel insights on how natural resource-based tourism can be supported through nature protection and sustainable management [12] and how the tourism industry can use natural resources sustainably [13,14]. Contributions were also made through the creation of a new global tourism index to assess the impact of various parameters on natural resources [6], along with the development of spatial models for nature-based tourism planning [15,16]. The positive and negative effects of tourism on natural resources are often examined within protected areas, with an emphasis on sustainable tourism as a desirable solution [17,18,19]. A sustainable tourism management model [20] and a sustainable ecotourism model framework [21] have also been suggested as possible solutions. Additionally, the evaluation of natural resource elements and their use in tourism has often been examined from the perspectives of visitors or local communities, typically through survey-based research [22].

In this context, considering the key focus of Sustainability, this Special Issue aims to enhance our understanding of the possibilities and challenges for the successful use of natural resources in tourism based on the principles of sustainable development. Given that many of the studies mentioned earlier highlight the interdisciplinary connection between sustainability and tourism, this Special Issue emphasizes the ongoing need to redefine sustainability challenges to maximize the benefits of tourism development for both the environment and society. It includes innovative theoretical, methodological, and empirical studies that contribute to the development of this research area. This SI encompasses various aspects of the multi-layered relationship between tourism and natural resource use, including issues related to the socioeconomic and environmental aspects of using natural resources in tourism, including the various obstacles and challenges regarding their use. Each contribution in this SI highlights the need to re-examine contemporary approaches that influence current natural resource management policies.

This Special Issue in Sustainability comprises 11 scientific papers that cover a wide range of topics and issues related to sustainable tourism development and natural resource use. The articles in this Special Issue present different methodological approaches and methods from various tourism sectors.

In the first paper, entitled “Empirical investigation of the motivation and perception of tourists visiting the Apuseni Nature Park (Romania) and the relationship of tourism and natural resources”, the authors explore the perception and motivation of tourists to visit national parks and nature parks in karst regions. By conducting a field survey and using a convenience sampling strategy, the authors concluded that geotourists are an important group of natural park visitors, although awareness of geotourism needs to be improved. The obtained results showed that the primary motivation of tourists for the visit was “search for relaxation”, followed by “interest in caves” and “interest in karst terrain”. This study concluded that tourism growth does not equally threaten the natural resources in this park. To develop tourism further and preserve natural resources in the karst terrain, the authors proposed several guidelines.

The second paper, entitled “The Role of Landscape in Sustainable Tourism Development—A Study of Identification and Evaluation of Landscape Qualities of the Vrbanja Basin in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, introduces the concept of landscapes as a key factor of tourism development. This study established a landscape typology and characterization and assessed the suitability for sustainable tourism development using the Vrbanja river basin area as an example. The methodology consisted of three steps: desk study, spatial identification of landscape types, and evaluation and assessment of their suitability for tourism development. The obtained results show that the high mountain areas with forest and semi-rural types and the hilly areas with forest and rural landscape types are the most suitable for tourism development. In addition, they emphasize the importance of landscape typology, characterization, and valorization in determining protection measures and supporting decision-making processes in tourist activities.

In the third paper, entitled “Linking Geoheritage or Geosite Assessment Results with Geotourism Potential and Development: A Literature Review”, the authors discuss assessment criteria and their relevance to the development of geotourism for the general public based on a desk study. The research results indicate that most assessment methods are of great importance to experts but not to the general public. From a geotourism development perspective, the results of these evaluation methods have limited direct applicability because the evaluation criteria do not reflect the needs of the largest group of geoheritage visitors, i.e., the lay public. Therefore, the authors highlight that during the evaluation of geoheritage for potential geotourism development, it is necessary to determine important criteria from the perspective of point of view of visitors who may have geo experiences or education. Through education, promotion, and conservation, this can positively impact the public’s overall awareness of geoheritage, creating the conditions for sustainable geotourism development.

The fourth paper, entitled “Tourists’ Motivation in Wetland Destinations: Gornje Podunavlje Special Nature Reserve Case Study (Mura-Drava-Danube Transboundary Biosphere Reserve)”, analyzes tourists’ motivations for visiting wetland tourist destinations (with different protection levels), their image perception, and satisfaction based on survey research. The research findings indicated that satisfaction and experience increase with the increase in motivation to spend time in wetlands in particular, and image based on biodiversity. In addition, the survey results showed that the respondents are aware of all the imperfections in the reserve; however, this does not disturb their perception of the image based on biodiversity and the motivation for staying in wetland tourist destinations. The results obtained in this study can be helpful for decision-makers and managers of wetland destinations to improve their tourist offerings.

In the fifth paper, entitled “Perceived Destination Image Cohesion: A Comparison Study of Attractions on the Grand Canal, China”, the authors propose a method and measurement scale to examine cohesion in the perceived destination image (PDI) of a linear tourism destination, such as canals and waterways. Using a mixed qualitative/quantitative method (in-depth interviews with unstructured image measurement methodology, measurement scale, and t-test), the authors extracted the attributes of the PDI of the Grand Canal as a whole and the differences between the PDI and the overall picture of the Grand Canal. The obtained results recommended a marketing strategy for further tourism development. This method can be used to examine the PDI of other linear tourist destinations.

The sixth paper, entitled “Sustainable Tourism Development and Ramsar Sites in Serbia: Exploring Residents’ Attitudes and Water Quality Assessment in the Vlasina Protected Area”, discusses the potential for sustainable tourism development in the Ramsar areas of Serbia using the example of Vlasina Lake and its surroundings. To examine the possibilities of tourism development, field research, a survey among residents, a water quality assessment (using indices such as SWQI, CWQI, and WPI), and desk studies were conducted. The obtained results provide important new insights into the water quality of Vlasina Lake and the involvement of the residents in tourism. It was concluded that favorable conditions for sustainable tourism development in this undeveloped and unpopulated Ramsar area could contribute to the overall socioeconomic development; however, it is important to maintain adequate environmental protection. Therefore, this study can serve as a guideline to public policymakers for formulating adequate tourism development programs.

In the seventh paper, entitled “Protected Natural Areas and Ecotourism—Priority Strategies for Future Development in Selected Serbian Case Studies”, the authors evaluate the attractiveness of tourism in selected protected areas in Serbia (Stara Planina Nature Park and Suva Planina Special Nature Reserve), aiming to develop ecotourism and define priority strategies for future development. By applying the integral AHP-SWOT method, numerous natural and, to a lesser extent, anthropogenic resources were analyzed, providing a basis for ecotourism development. However, numerous weaknesses in these mountain areas were observed, such as depopulation, poverty, and underdeveloped infrastructure. The obtained results provide several development strategies; among them, the most important ones are those based on the use of biodiversity in these areas. Additionally, the authors emphasized the importance and suitability of the AHP-SWOT method in this study, as it relies on scientifically based and reliable decision-making that can be put into practice. This study contributes new insights into strategic decision-making in protected areas and could be valuable for managers in developing strategic plans for tourism development.

The eighth paper, entitled “Tourism and Conservation Empowered by Augmented Reality: A Scientometric Analysis Based on the Science Tree Metaphor”, conducted a literature review to more deeply and cohesively analyze the key contributions related to the implementation of augmented reality (AR) for technological support in tourism and natural heritage conservation. Using the Science Tree Metaphor, the authors developed two approaches to data processing scientometric statistics and evolutionary analysis, which are significant in creating innovative AR-based applications for tourism promotion and conservation. The authors started from the hypothesis that AR adoption in the tourism industry has significantly increased after the COVID-19 period and that it has the potential to improve travel safety standards and contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. The results of the scientometric analysis, using the Science Tree Metaphor, indicate that there is a growing interest in the intersection of AR and tourism and that AR can positively influence cultural heritage preservation. The authors present several conclusions regarding AR technology and tourism, highlighting increased research interest, expanding research topics, international cooperation, global significance, and the identification and resolution of challenges.

In the ninth paper, entitled “Sustainable Tourism near the City—A Case Study of Stolovi Mountain, Serbia”, the authors analyze opportunities for sustainable tourism development in non-affirmed sites in Serbia to reduce the differences in the regional development of the country and improve the tourism offerings of already established sites in the surrounding area. This study analyzed Stolovi Mountain in Central Serbia. Based on field research, surveys of the local population, and a literature review, this study concluded that Stolovi Mountain could be included in various tourist tours, which would lead to positive economic and socio-demographic effects. The results show that ecotourism, recreation, and cultural and event tourism have the most significant potential for development on Stolovi Mountain. Also, it is concluded that forms of green tourism can ensure this area’s ecological sustainability. This study highlights one way to address uneven regional development in Serbia and can assist planners and decision-makers in creating public policies and strategic documents for the economic development of other regions in Serbia.

The tenth paper, entitled “Assessment of recreational value in a protected forest area considering the new environmental paradigm (case study: Helen Forest, Southwestern Iran)”, investigates the recreational value of the protected forest area of Helen Forest in Iran, combining the new environmental paradigm with economic valuation. Visitors’ willingness to pay and its association with scores reflecting the new environmental paradigm were assessed through contingent valuation and a dual-dimensional questionnaire. The results confirmed that a vast majority of visitors (83.04%) were willing to pay for recreational use. Factors such as the proposed amount, visit frequency, new environmental paradigm, age, gender, education, and income were found to significantly impact their willingness to pay. This study shows that visitors who exhibit more positive and robust environmental attitudes tend to assign higher value to environmental aspects. This study is a pioneering effort in Iran, introducing the concept of recreational valuation through the lens of the “new ecological paradigm” to the public. Additionally, it is expected to draw increased attention from officials to Helen Forest, encouraging actions to strengthen its recreational value and promote its improvement and development. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and officials, emphasizing the need to prioritize environmental quality and protect natural resources to prevent their undervaluation due to inadequate government support.

In the eleventh paper, entitled “Fostering Resilient and Sustainable Rural Development through Nature-Based Tourism, Digital Technologies, and Built Heritage Preservation: The Experience of San Giovanni Lipioni, Italy”, the authors present the activities of a four-year research project conducted in collaboration with a territorial promotion association and a local action group (LAG), which aimed to promote the sustainable development of the area. The project focuses on nature-based tourism, digital communication and engagement strategies, and the preservation of built heritage. This research introduces a methodology to revitalize various aspects of intangible cultural and natural heritage. The research included a critical/interpretive study of the potential and challenges of promoting a tourism strategy focused on the reactivation of ancient agricultural and pastoral routes. A survey campaign was then carried out using digital tools to map the trails and identify points of interest and any potential issues related to maintenance work. A list of recommended interventions to help the administration during the reactivation was also created. Track mapping was used to indicate the precise location and extent of maintenance work in each segment. Digital interventions were developed to promote built heritage and natural paths. The creation of restoration manuals offers guidelines for designers and policymakers, helping to preserve the functional use of this heritage site while maintaining its historical image.

Ultimately, this SI contributes to the contemporary study of issues related to the use of natural resources and sustainable tourism development. We would like to thank all the authors who contributed their papers to this SI and the reviewers who provided detailed reviews and constructive suggestions to improve the manuscripts. We are happy to share this rich and diverse collection of papers with colleagues in our research fields and international scientific audiences. Future research is crucial, given the evolving nature of the relationship between natural resources and tourism, to promote the development of tourism in a more sustainable manner. Thus, we hope that the papers in this SI will serve as a starting point and inspiration for future research on this topic.