Uncovering the interconnectedness of tourism growth, green technological advancements and climate change in prominent Asian tourism destinations

Published in: Tourism Management Perspectives (2024)
DOI: 10.1016/j.tmp.2024.101284

Overview

Tourism is a double-edged sword: while it contributes to economic development, it also exerts pressure on the environment. My latest co-authored research explores the intricate relationship between tourism growth, green technological innovation, and climate change in Asia’s leading tourist destinations.

Covering the period from 1990 to 2022, this study uses cutting-edge statistical methods to analyze the environmental impacts of tourism development and technological progress, offering insights into how sustainable strategies can be tailored to mitigate climate change.

Key Findings

  1. Tourism and CO2 Emissions:
    • Tourism growth initially leads to higher carbon emissions due to increased energy consumption.
  2. Green Technological Innovation:
    • Technological advancements, once reaching a critical innovation threshold, reduce emissions, supporting the Innovative Claudia Curve Theory.
  3. Regional Variations:
    • Significant differences exist in green innovation across Asia, highlighting the need for region-specific strategies.
  4. Policy Implications:
    • Data-driven policymaking is critical for advancing sustainable tourism practices that integrate green technologies effectively.

Why This Matters

Asia’s prominent tourism destinations are at the forefront of global tourism growth, but they are also among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts. This study offers:

  • A Framework for Sustainable Development: Insights into the role of technology in balancing tourism growth with climate goals.
  • Actionable Strategies: Guidance for tailoring policies to regional needs, ensuring that tourism contributes to climate change mitigation.
  • A Call to Innovate: Evidence that investing in green technology can create a turning point for emissions reduction.

Practical Implications

This research provides actionable takeaways for policymakers, businesses, and tourism stakeholders:

  • Adopt Green Technologies: Integrate innovative technologies into tourism operations to achieve sustainability goals.
  • Tailor Regional Policies: Recognize and address the unique needs of different destinations for maximum impact.
  • Support Data-Driven Decision-Making: Use statistical evidence to craft informed, effective tourism policies.

Keywords

Climate change, tourism development, green technological innovation, structural change, Asia, Claudia Curve.

How to Cite This Research

If you find this research valuable, please reference it as follows:

Kumail, T., Mandić, A., Li, H., & Sadiq, F. (2024). Uncovering the interconnectedness of tourism growth, green technological advancements and climate change in prominent Asian tourism destinations. Tourism Management Perspectives, 53, 101284.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2024.101284

Read the Full Paper

Access the complete study here: ScienceDirect.

Join the Discussion

What role do you think green technologies can play in transforming tourism’s environmental impact? Share your thoughts and let’s collaborate on building a more sustainable tourism future!

Published article – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211973624000679

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