https://stm2.bookpi.org/LCTSESD/issue/feed 2025-12-18T06:25:33+00:00 Open Journal Systems <p>Tourism has become a cornerstone of global economic development, contributing substantially to GDP (Gross Domestic Product), employment, and intercultural exchange. However, its exponential growth has precipitated severe environmental consequences, particularly in carbon emissions from transportation, resource overconsumption, and ecosystem degradation. As climate change intensifies, the tourism industry faces an imperative transformation toward sustainable practices that reconcile economic vitality with ecological responsibility. Low Carbon Tourism (LCT) emerges as a strategic framework addressing these challenges by systematically reducing carbon emissions across transportation, accommodation, and recreational activities while fostering environmentally conscious behaviours. This approach aligns with sustainable tourism principles, aiming to meet present needs without compromising future generations' access to natural and cultural heritage. By integrating environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability, LCT provides a pragmatic pathway toward achieving global sustainability objectives.</p> <p>This monograph provides a comprehensive examination of low-carbon tourism implementation strategies, focusing on the nexus between tourism activities and environmental impacts, particularly carbon emissions and resource utilisation. It synthesises theoretical frameworks with empirical evidence, analysing successful international initiatives to extract practical insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and local communities. The study emphasises the critical role of policy instruments, regulatory mechanisms, technological innovations, and community participation in advancing sustainable tourism development.</p> <p>The contemporary tourism industry stands at a critical juncture, confronting dual imperatives of escalating demand and mounting environmental accountability. Conventional high-carbon tourism models characterised by intensive energy consumption and excessive waste generation are demonstrably unsustainable. Consequently, adopting low-carbon strategies represents not merely an option but an existential necessity for preserving destination viability and safeguarding natural and cultural patrimony for posterity. Achieving low-carbon tourism requires coordinated action among diverse stakeholders. Governments must establish enabling policy frameworks and regulatory standards; private sector entities must embrace technological innovations and sustainable business practices; local communities must actively participate in conservation initiatives; and tourists themselves must adopt responsible consumption behaviours. This multi-stakeholder approach creates synergistic effects that amplify individual contributions, transforming low-carbon tourism from a niche concept into mainstream practice. This work aspires to bridge academic discourse and practical application, offering both theoretical insights and actionable strategies for implementing low-carbon tourism. It reflects growing global recognition that tourism can serve as a catalyst for sustainable development rather than a driver of environmental degradation. Through rigorous analysis and evidence-based recommendations, this study seeks to inform policy formulation, guide industry transformation, and stimulate further scholarly inquiry in pursuit of a resilient, environmentally responsible tourism sector that benefits present and future generations alike.</p> https://stm2.bookpi.org/LCTSESD/article/view/724 2025-12-18T06:25:33+00:00 Theeranat Suwanaruang [email protected] Chuthamat Chiamsathit Surasak Thammarakcharoen Nonwisit Wisessri

<p>Tourism is a significant driver of global economic growth, cultural exchange, and social development. However, conventional tourism practices contribute substantially to environmental degradation, particularly through carbon emissions, high energy consumption, and ecosystem disruption. In response to growing environmental concerns and climate change challenges, Low Carbon Tourism (LCT) has emerged as a sustainable approach that minimises ecological impacts while maintaining economic and social benefits. This book is informed by a structured review of scientific literature, international policy reports, and global tourism datasets, supported by comparative case study analysis. This concise methodological approach ensures that the insights and recommendations are evidence-based and internationally relevant.</p> <p>This book explores the principles, strategies, and practical applications of LCT, situating it within the broader framework of sustainable tourism and sustainable development. It examines the environmental impacts of tourism, including carbon footprints, resource overuse, and biodiversity loss, and presents strategies to mitigate these effects. Key strategies discussed include energy-efficient operations in accommodations, promotion of low-emission transportation, eco-tourism initiatives, waste and water management, and raising environmental awareness among tourists. The book emphasises the role of multiple stakeholders—governments, private sectors, local communities, and tourists—in implementing sustainable tourism practices. Case studies from national and international contexts demonstrate successful applications of LCT, illustrating how destinations can achieve environmental preservation, economic benefits, and community engagement simultaneously. In addition, emerging tools such as smart tourism technologies, digital monitoring systems, and low-carbon mobility solutions are highlighted for their potential to accelerate decarbonization across the tourism value chain. Challenges such as policy gaps, financial constraints, and limited awareness are also addressed, with recommendations for effective solutions. By integrating theoretical insights with practical strategies, this book provides a comprehensive guide for academics, policymakers, tourism operators, and community leaders committed to sustainable tourism development. Ultimately, promoting low-carbon tourism is essential not only for reducing environmental impacts but also for ensuring the long-term viability and resilience of tourism destinations. The adoption of LCT represents a timely and necessary approach to harmonise tourism growth with environmental sustainability, contributing to a greener, more responsible, and sustainable future.</p>

2025-12-18T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s). The licensee is the publisher (BP International).