Search Results (183)

Wild fruit species are key components of natural and semi-natural ecosystems, playing an important role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. This review aims to analyze these species from the perspective of their ecological functions, contribution to biodiversity conservation, and the ecosystem services they provide. Ecologically, wild fruit species contribute to soil stabilization, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration, while also serving as essential food sources and habitats for a wide range of organisms, including mammals, birds, insects, and microorganisms. Through these interactions, they support ecosystem functioning and resilience. Beyond their ecological role, these species provide significant socio-economic benefits, particularly in rural areas. They contribute to cultural ecosystem services and represent valuable resources for traditional medicine, while also offering opportunities for income generation through harvesting, processing, commercialization, and rural tourism. In the context of climate change, biodiversity loss, and increasing ecosystem degradation, wild fruit species represent multifunctional natural resources. Their conservation and sustainable use are essential for maintaining ecosystem functionality and promoting sustainable rural development. Full article

Against the backdrop of the rapid expansion of rural tourism, an increasing number of migrant tourism entrepreneurs (MTEs) are moving from urban to rural areas. The integration of MTEs is crucial for both business sustainability and rural development. Using Hongcun village as a case study, this study adopts qualitative methods, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews, to explore the dynamic process of MTEs’ place integration from a social capital perspective. The findings suggest that MTEs’ place integration is manifested through four dimensions, namely economic embeddedness, social interaction, cultural acceptance, and emotional integration. Moreover, place integration and social capital form a mutually reinforcing cycle: integration practices generate localized social capital, which in turn facilitates deeper integration. The study also identifies that selective interaction leads to network stratification, highlighting the potential “dark side” of social capital. These findings suggest that effective integration depends not only on the accumulation of social capital but also on maintaining a dynamic balance among different types of social relationships. Full article

This study systematically reviews the evolution of Qatar’s tourism sector to evaluate the historical barriers impeding its development and the strategic initiatives deployed to enhance destination competitiveness. The research’s primary aim is to provide a theory-driven longitudinal analysis of Qatar’s tourism evolution, identifying systemic barriers and adaptive responses required for long-term sustainability. Grounded in the theoretical synthesis of Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) and Dynamic Capability Theory (DCT), the research employs a systematic literature review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework, screening 4846 records to analyze 24 final studies. The findings reveal five primary structural and perceptual barriers: a price–value mismatch (luxury perception), regional political instability, cultural and regulatory constraints, environmental vulnerabilities, and gaps in tourist infrastructure. Utilizing DCT, the results demonstrate how the destination exhibited adaptive governance by sensing these barriers and seizing strategic opportunities—such as mega-event hosting and visa reforms—to partially transform its tourism system. These insights highlight that while created resources drive initial visibility, sustaining long-term competitiveness and sustainable growth relies on continuous institutional reconfiguration and socio-cultural alignment. Full article

Non-motorized mobility networks increasingly serve as critical infrastructure for sustainable regional development that integrates recreational, environmental, and transportation functions across diverse geographical contexts. To enhance the spatial planning efficiency and support evidence-based policy development, this study develops a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based analytical framework to evaluate the connectivity and accessibility of Korea’s integrated non-motorized mobility system. The model systematically maps 606 walking courses, 60 cycling routes, and 66 water activity sites nationwide, and examines their spatial relationships with major transportation hubs, including Korea Train e-Xpress (KTX) stations and airports within 20–30 km buffer zones. Using proximity analysis, connectivity mapping, and origin–destination (OD) cost matrix modeling, the framework identifies intermodal distance structures and spatial integration patterns. The analysis reveals a hybrid network configuration characterized by localized multimodal clustering alongside regional accessibility gaps, with urban–coastal regions demonstrating stronger connectivity than inland–rural areas. This study proposes a data-driven Korean mobility network framework that integrates walking, cycling, and water routes with the existing transportation infrastructure. These findings demonstrate how GIS-based tools can support evidence-based sustainable mobility policies and regional tourism planning on a national scale. Full article

Coastal wetlands represent significant sources of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and serve as crucial ecological interfaces between terrestrial and marine environments, substantially contributing to global biogeochemical cycles. However, GHG emission fluxes are strongly influenced by complex anthropogenic activities, yet their underlying microbial mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigated seven representative human-impacted sites within the Yellow River Delta. Employing a combined approach of in vitro microcosm cultivation, molecular biology, and multivariate statistical analysis, we investigated the integrated mechanisms controlling nitrous oxide (N₂O) and methane (CH₄) fluxes, with consideration of soil depth, environmental factors, microbial communities, and functional microbes. The results indicated that significant differences in GHG fluxes among different anthropogenic activities and soil depths (p < 0.05). Surface soil N₂O fluxes were positive within sewage irrigation areas (20.98–35.08 mg N₂O-N m⁻² h⁻¹) and tourism development areas (12.52–23.87 mg N₂O-N m⁻² h⁻¹), while mariculture areas displayed negative fluxes. CH₄ fluxes were positive exclusively in natural areas (surface soil: 25.02–55.54 mg CH₄-C m⁻² h⁻¹; deep soil: 8.38–356.68 mg CH₄-C m⁻² h⁻¹), while other areas predominantly showed negative values (surface soil: −130.98–44.32 mg CH₄-C m⁻² h⁻¹; deep soil: −106.16–65.24 mg CH₄-C m⁻² h⁻¹). Furthermore, a structural equations model highlighted the pivotal role of key functional microbes in soil carbon–nitrogen cycling (e.g., nirK, nosZII, and SRB) involved in soil carbon–nitrogen cycling in negatively regulating N₂O and CH₄ fluxes. The study also revealed distinct microbial responses across diverse habitats, underscoring the significant role of Proteobacteria in wetland soil. This research enhances our understanding of GHG dynamics in coastal wetlands and provides scientific evidence and potential regulatory pathways for enhancing soil biological mitigation functions and achieving carbon neutrality and sustainability within wetland ecosystems. Full article

Nature-based tourism (NBT) is increasingly promoted as a means to contribute to conservation efforts. However, there is limited understanding of the relationship between environmental education and awareness and conservation attitudes and practices in this form of tourism that centers on green spaces. This study, therefore, aimed to explore this relationship using data from tourism operators and local communities in the Mexican Caribbean and provide useful insights for environmental sustainability in tourism destinations that depend on nature as a critical resource. The study employed a triangulation approach, which involved examination of two sets of data: firstly, household-level survey information from local communities participating in nature-based tourism; and secondly, data from semi-structured in-depth interviews with tour companies operating within the Mexican Caribbean, as well as focus group discussions with key informants including academicians, public-sector stakeholders and other opinion leaders in the tourism industry. Household surveys determined associations between potential predictor variables (environmental education and awareness, local community involvement, costs and benefits distribution) and conservation perspectives and practices in nature-based tourism. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions explored participants’ attitudes, experiences and views on environmental education and awareness, nature-based tourism, attitudes and practices towards conservation. Findings demonstrated that direct benefits from nature-based tourism are significant, but do not guarantee positive conservation attitudes and practices among the local communities. Other factors (indirect benefits), such as environmental education and awareness, could be more effective in achieving environmental sustainability and quality in nature-based tourism. It was also found that several tourism operators lack formal environmental education and awareness programs. The study recommends that the entire cycle of using natural resources for tourism purposes and tourists’ interaction with nature be anchored in adequate environmental education and awareness. This research contributes to valuable insights into debates, practices and policy developments related to nature-based tourism as a mechanism for environmental sustainability in biosphere reserves and tourism destinations. Full article

This research proposes a novel framework for assessing circularity in sustainable tourism by aligning Circular Economy principles with the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria. Despite the growing importance of sustainability, the absence of a standardized measurement framework hinders progress within sustainable tourism operations. The study synthesizes existing circularity assessments to conceptualize a multi-dimensional approach tailored to the tourism sector. The resulting four-level framework integrates GSTC standards for Industry, MICE, Destinations and Attractions. By bridging environmental, social, economic, and technological dimensions, the framework utilizes the “5R” principle (reduce, recycle, repair, rethink, and reuse). Methodologically, the study employs a systematic literature review and content analysis to model key indicators, including Life Cycle Assessments, investments in circularity, circular business models, community engagement, skills development, local sourcing, supply chain transparency, water and energy efficiency, waste management, technologies and digitalization. The proposed framework provides a comprehensive tool for stakeholders to quantify circularity, fostering transparency and long-term resilience in sustainable tourism development. Full article

This study examined the psychology-driven decision-making dynamics of Millennial solo travellers in Asia, with a comparative focus on Thai and other Asian tourists. While the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) is widely applied in tourism research, prior studies may not fully address the attitude-mediated construct–intention gap, stage-based intention–behaviour variation, and post-intention outcomes. To extend this perspective, the study proposes the I-SMART Cognitive TPB Model, integrating temporal bias, loss aversion, narrative-driven information, Social Exchange Theory, the four-stage tourism life cycle, and post-intention marketing behaviours. Survey data from 800 respondents (400 Thai, 400 Asian) were analysed using structural equation modelling. The findings indicate that narrative information may play a stronger role in shaping attitudes among Asian travellers, whereas Thai travellers appear more influenced by time-based motivation. Pre-trip factors emerged as key contributors to intention formation in both groups, while post-intention patterns diverged: intention linked more strongly to satisfaction among Asian travellers and to revisit tendencies among Thai travellers. Theoretically, the study offers an integrated cognitive–behavioural model that complements TPB by incorporating bias-driven and stage-based mechanisms. Practically, the findings provide guidance for designing digital infrastructure, time-sensitive policies, and storytelling-driven marketing strategies tailored to Millennial solo travellers. Full article

This study focuses on the identification, historical-geographical description, and subsequent evaluation of the attractiveness of relicts of historical water reservoirs (splash dams) in the forest environment of the Low Tatras National Park (Slovakia), situated in the central part of the Western Carpathians, with regard to their potential for ecotourism development. Recreational and leisure activities in this area are primarily based on soft tourism forms. In the national park, we identified fourteen relicts of splash dams, and for the assessment of their attractiveness in terms of ecotourism, we selected the five largest. All splash dams were assessed using a methodology developed by the authors as an outcome of their research, in order to fulfil one of the partial objectives of the study. The methodology comprises 19 evaluation criteria grouped into three categories: natural environment, technical characteristics, and recreational potential. Based on the application of this author-developed methodology, it was determined that the Malužiná splash dam represents the most attractive site for ecotourism, as it remains water-filled and is readily accessible via two cycling routes. In terms of the evaluation according to technical criteria, the most attractive relic is the Korytnica splash dam, which ranks as the second most attractive among the assessed splash dams in the national park. Full article

The Tourism Area Life Cycle shaped tourism research for decades, but its concepts Product Life Cycle and Carrying Capacity remain problematic. We apply a Path Dependence frame under an Urban Growth Machine Theory lens to explore the effects of growth pressure and resource undersupply on the decline and rejuvenation of Japan’s former premier hot spring resort Atami. We conduct structured data collection utilizing sampling and coding methods to collect quantitative and qualitative data from primary and secondary sources, reconstructing Atami’s development paths. Findings suggest that growth pressure conflicted with local supply such as land, water, labor and created negative externalities, most notably high prices. Decision makers’ uncompromising focus on growth aggravated displacement of key actors, disrupting local communities and undermining the human agency needed for small-scale product innovation; empowered associations obstructing promotion and diversification efforts; encouraged extreme specialization depriving Atami of new independent businesses; and drove local opposition to major new projects, thereby stalling product renewal. The framework helped recontextualize Atami’s recovery and demonstrated the value of directly incorporating factors of capacity into analysis. Results link displacement to long-term sustainability risks affecting ‘replaceable’ resorts reliant on innovation. Unencumbered access to local resources for residents (housing, training) is proposed as mitigation. Full article

The Veracruz Reef System National Park (VRSNP), located in the central Gulf of Mexico, is one of the country’s most ecologically and economically significant coral systems. Despite its high biodiversity and ecosystem functionality, it is affected by anthropogenic inputs such as fluvial discharges, urban effluents, and port and tourism activities that contribute organic and bacteriological loads. This study aimed to identify the presence of Enterococcus spp. and Vibrio spp. during three climatic seasons—dry, rainy, and north winds—at two water column depths (surface and bottom) across three reefs (Enmedio, Chopas, and Gallega) within the VRSNP during the 2022 annual cycle. Samples were analyzed according to national and international standards. Results showed that Vibrio spp. were influenced mainly by temporal factors, with higher values during north winds and the dry season (>1100 MPN/100 mL); otherwise, rainy conditions reported the lowest load (184.89 ± 15.00 MPN/100 mL). While Enterococcus spp. exhibited greater spatial influence, particularly in surface waters, Enmedio Reef recorded the highest load (478.34 ± 37.28 CFU/100 mL); in addition, Chopas Reef reported the lowest at the bottom (12.43 ± 1.26 CFU/100 mL). The findings highlight the need to strengthen microbiological monitoring protocols in marine coastal ecosystems to assess water quality, public health risks, and the ecological integrity of coral reef environments, as well as the implementation of molecular identification techniques. Full article

Rural destinations face a difficult challenge in balancing economic vitality with the environmental and infrastructural pressures, including congestion of car-dependent destinations. Despite growing calls for more sustainable mobility, destination management organisations (DMOs) can assume that private vehicles are vital for rural access, fearing that alternatives such as soft mobility or public transport may have an adverse effect on visitor satisfaction and spending. Yet, empirical evidence to support or challenge these assumptions remains limited. This study addresses this gap by analysing visitor survey data (N = 512) from international and domestic tourists to a rural destination in County Clare, Ireland. Using one-way and two-way ANOVA, along with chi-square and logistic regression analyses, we examine how transport mode relates to visitor satisfaction, daily expenditure, and overnight stay behaviour. Results revealed that visitor satisfaction does not significantly differ across transport modes, suggesting that sustainable mobility options (e.g., walking, cycling, public transport) do not impact the visitor experience. While transport mode had a minimal impact on spending overall, overnight visitors, regardless of how they travelled, spent significantly more than day-trippers (p < 0.001), identifying length of stay as the key economic driver. Moreover, soft mobility users (walking and cycling) had a higher likelihood of staying overnight than car users, while tour bus users were significantly less likely to do so. However, among those who did stay overnight, tour bus users reported the highest daily spending, revealing a complex relationship between mobility type and economic impact. Overall, the results question long-held assumptions linking car use with rural tourism success. Low-impact transport options, such as soft mobility and public transport, were found to sustain visitor satisfaction and spending outcomes comparable to car travel, suggesting their integration could contribute to more balanced, sustainable mobility planning. Full article

This study evaluates Limassol’s readiness to adopt the 15-minute city model through a spatial accessibility and urban-form analysis. Using openly available geo-referenced Points of Interest (POIs), road network data, land-use records, and census information, we generated 15-minute walking and cycling isochrones for eight essential urban functions: Education, Food, Green Areas, Health, Services, Shopping, Tourism, and Transport. Residential coverage within each isochrone was calculated to assess accessibility equity across the city. Urban sprawl was quantified using size, density, and fragmentation metrics derived from historical planning zones. Results show that while cycling accessibility is high for most categories (85–95% of residential areas), walking accessibility is considerably lower and unevenly distributed, with several critical functions, particularly Green Areas, Education, and Transport, serving less than half of the residential zones. The analysis also reveals increasing spatial fragmentation and outward population shifts consistent with low-density sprawl, driven by planning policies and development pressures. These findings indicate that Limassol is only partially aligned with the principles of the 15-minute city, with significant gaps in walkable access and decentralized service provision. The study concludes that targeted planning reforms, improved active-mobility infrastructure, and polycentric redistribution of amenities are necessary for enhancing accessibility equity and advancing the city’s transition toward a more sustainable and human-scaled urban model. Full article

Culinary culture shock (CCS)—the discomfort and ambivalence travelers feel when encountering unfamiliar foods—remains underexplored from a short-horizon, trip-bounded perspective. While prior work notes both attractions and impediments of food in tourism, a process-oriented account of how ordinary travelers experience and navigate CCS during brief trips is still limited. This study examines CCS in Guangzhou, China and delineates how it shapes travelers’ evaluations of place. We adopt a qualitative design, combining 30 semi-structured interviews with in situ ethnographic observations across markets, street-food settings, restaurants, and guided food tours, supplemented by document analysis (e.g., visitor materials and menus). Using reflexive thematic analysis, we identify three recurrent coping trajectories—avoidance, gradual adaptation, and immersion—that unfold nonlinearly as travelers recalibrate expectations, manage sensory dissonance, and renegotiate comfort boundaries. We integrate expectancy–disconfirmation theory (EDT) with an embodied view of tasting to develop the Palate Adaptation Spiral Model (PASM), which explains CCS as recursive cycles of appraisal, strategy enactment, and re-appraisal within the span of a trip. Social influence (peers, guides, and service staff) operates as a cross-cutting mechanism that can accelerate adaptation or entrench avoidance depending on cue valence and credibility. The study clarifies the scope of CCS as general travel encounters (not restricted to culinary-motivated tourists) and specifies contextual conditions under which negative reactions are reversible. Theoretically, we connect EDT to short-term culinary adaptation through PASM; practically, we outline design levers—pre-trip expectation management, pictorial/transparent menus, and guide-mediated tasting sequences—to reduce anxiety and support constructive exploration. Full article

The contemporary landscape is characterised by overlapping values and pressures, where ecosystem services and cultural spaces are used by diverse categories of users. In fragile contexts such as the Phlegraean Fields in Italy, the exponential growth of mass tourism has intensified the anthropogenic impacts, exacerbated by limited landscape awareness among local communities. Thus, walkability fosters direct exploration, while experiential transects provide a lens to read ecological, cultural, and perceptual layers of places. Together with digital storytelling, these approaches converge in a phygital approach that enriches physical experience without supplanting it. The study covered approximately 115 km of routes across five municipalities, combining road audits, an 11-item survey, participatory mapping, and ArcGIS StoryMaps. Results showed a structurally complex and functionally fragile mobility system: sidewalks are discontinuous, lighting insufficient, less than one quarter of the network is fully pedestrian, and cycling facilities are almost absent. At the same time, digital layers diversified routes and supported situated learning. By integrating geo-spatial analysis and phygital tools, the research demonstrates a replicable strategy to enhance the awareness and sustainable enjoyment of complex landscapes. The present research is part of the PNRR project Changes ‘PE5Changes_Spoke1-WP4-Historical Landscapes Traditions and Cultural Identities’. Full article