Sustainable Tourism Practices: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Conservation

Abstract

The strategy for developing the economy and preserving the environment has called for the development of sustainable tourism which is becoming global in significance. The focus of the research is on sustainable tourism practices in Costa Rica, Bhutan, New Zealand, Norway, and Kenya, and their approaches to economic growth without compromising ecological impact. The study through case studies, stakeholder interviews, and surveys identifies the critical role of policy frameworks, community engagement, and tourist awareness in promoting sustainable practices. Results show that regions with strong regulatory frameworks and community-driven initiatives are more successful in environmental preservation and socio-economic benefits. Nevertheless, the problem has been compounded by enforcement gaps in the regulatory environment and barriers to sustainable travel options that contribute to economic costs. Although tourists are very supportive of eco-friendly travel, the willingness to pay a premium is still quite limited, which indicates the necessity of affordable sustainable options. The study emphasizes the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration and suggests targeted policies to improve accessibility and accountability in sustainable tourism. The insights offered contribute to the growing literature on sustainable tourism and offer actionable recommendations for destinations seeking to support long-term ecological and economic resilience.