SUSTAINABLE

TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

MODULE NO. 04

Economic Impact of Tourism

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

This course focuses on the issues and challenges which are raised from the
development of tourism. It deepens the discussion of the impacts of tourism to
society, culture, gender, economy, environment and human development, and
integrates each into a holistic view, with the end purpose of promoting sustainable
development of tourism. It covers the empirical study of measuring impacts and
effectively planning, managing and controlling these impacts for a given destination.

I. COURSE OUTCOMES

At the end of the module, the students must be able to:

1. The Economic impacts of tourism: Why Government Invest

2. Positive Economic impacts of tourism.

3. Negative Economic impacts of tourism.

4. Economic Dependence of the local community on tourism.

5. Economic impacts of tourism: Conclusion

1
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

II. LEARNING CONTENT

1. Define impacts.

2. Enumerate and discuss the various positive and negative impacts of tourism in
the economy.

3 Learn the risk of becoming dependent on tourism.

4. Conclusion of of Economic impact of tourism.

III. OVERVIEW

This course focuses on the issues and challenges which are raised from the

development of tourism. It deepens the discussion of the impacts of tourism to

society, culture, gender, economy, environment and human development, and

integrates each into a holistic view, with the end purpose of promoting sustainable

development of tourism. It covers the empirical study of measuring impacts and

effectively planning, managing and controlling these impacts for a given destination.

2
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

IV. DISCUSSION

CHAPTER 1:SUMMARY OF IMPORTANCE OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

There’s never been so much preoccupation with nature as we see today.

Even the travel industry is changing. People are gradually looking for eco-
friendly things to do. So, sustainable tourism is on raising nowadays.

In 2017 the UN was declared the ‘Year of Sustainable Tourism’. Those days

in a topic that almost everyone talks about it. From newspapers, television,
blogs to travel agencies, there is so much information. According to
the United Nations World Tourism Organization, international tourist arrivals
by region are growing through the years. So, it is important to educate
travellers to be responsible when travel.

3
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

But to practice sustainable tourism you must understand what it is,

what benefits can bring and how can you help. It is a constant learning
process. Sometimes not an easy thing, but for sure you are contributing for

a better world.

What is Sustainable Tourism?

When we talk about sustainable tourism we tend to think in

the environment. But, if you look for a definition is more.

Sustainability is often related to a balanced environment. Is the process of

development that satisfies the needs of the present. All of this without
affecting the ability of future generations to satisfy their needs.

This kind of tourism takes full account of its current and future economic,
social and environmental impact. It does not only visit someplace as a tourist
but, also create a positive influence in all the surrounding.

Benefits of Sustainable Tourism.

Sustainable tourism not only has assist travellers but, also local

communities. So, more and more are changing the way they see travels.

This can create a positive impact on a country. Travelling shouldn’t be

harmful and people finally understand this. Sustainable travel is all
about showing that we care.

Nowadays, the number of people travelling is increasing. If we don’t do it in

a responsible way, how can we afford to continue to travel? Tourism can be
good and have enormous potential. But, tourists have to be conscious of it.

The mainly three things sustainable tourism can be responsible are: benefits

the environment, help local communities and can have economic
advantages.

4
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

If people do not travel, there is no tourism. So, sustainable tourism is also

linked to a concept of sustainable mobility.

It always up to us tourist take a positive impact. We have the power to

choose. Today we have so many information that we can do it in the right
way. Always remember this is not only good for you but, for everyone in the
world.

How to be a Sustainable Tourist

People actually should understand to have sustainable tourism there a lot to

be done. It is hard work that includes: governments of a country,
organizations, local people and tourists.

As a tourist, you play a crucial role. You are visiting a country, contributing to
tourism and the economy.

So here some things to have in mind when you are in a new destination:

1. choose eco-friendly tours operators;

2. buy from local communities;
3. make use of natural resources;
4. try to minimize your trash (don’t leave anything behind);
5. do not disturb fauna and flora;
6. respect the traditions and culture;
7. eat local food. Don’t be afraid to try it;
8. use eco-friendly transportation as much as you can;
9. stay in eco-conscious places. Many hotels are even changing towards
sustainable and ethical;
10. don’t exploit animals. Always question all animal experiences.

There are so much more you can do to be a sustainable tourist. Even when

you are backing home from travelling you can help. Just take what you’ve
learned and put it in practice. Start with your daily life. Then share with your
friends and family. You can make a difference.

Environmental sustainability

It is necessary for the maintenance of the factors and practices that

contribute to the quality of the environment on a long-term basis. This is how

5
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

environmental sustainability takes place. Without that future generations will

not have access to what we have today.

The environment is for sure important not only for tourism but, in general. If

many sights we see today will disappear, in the future would not be possible
to visit. When we talk about environmental sustainability is not only a natural
environment but, also the built environment.

So, it is necessary to protect and preserve beaches, mountains,

and forests, in the natural field. In terms of the built environment, we need to
care for historic buildings and ruins.

As a responsible traveller, environmental sustainability is to be aware of the

impact you have in a certain destination. If you do this, you will try to find
ways to make that impact as positive as possible.

Socio-cultural sustainability

Socio-cultural sustainability today and later will satisfy essential human

needs. Like for instance self-arrangement, social equity, wellbeing,
education, culture, religion, peace, human rights, balance throughout
everyday life and inspiration. All this, as a long-term process forming social
conditions for who and what is to come.

When a place is being visited for tourists there are social and cultural
impacts. Not only for travellers but, also for the host community. Local
people will see their space increase with strangers. New languages and
values are introduced and even the influx of migrant workers to be employed
in the tourism industry.

With all these factors is mandatory minimizing the negative impact and focus

on positive things. You always have to be respectful. So, promoting cultural
exchange and keeping local traditions are some of the things to have in
mind.

It is very interesting to getting local people involved in the tourism industry. In

fact, is even an opportunity for them and for tourists to exchange ideas. Is a
win-win situation. Where local communities can take visitors on a
more genuine experience.

Socio-cultural sustainability is optimistic for communities; they feel a sense

of ownership and pride. So, they will see tourism in a positive way.

6
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

Economic sustainability

Towards sustainable tourism, we shouldn’t forget economic sustainability. All

of this revolves around the money. It is inevitable those days. But, even
though money is not one of the best things in the world, it can be beneficial
for tourism.

Some people even argue money is the key to making a tourism venture
sustainable. In practical terms, economic sustainability means that we must
use, safeguard and sustain resources to create long-term sustainable
values by optimal use, recovery, and recycling.

It is essential to keep the money local. Just think about it, if the community is
getting involved they should benefit from that.

This is why, for example, when hotels or companies owned and operated by
a foreigner or huge international brands are not economically
sustainable. They aren´t giving back to the community or contribute to the
local economy.

It is imperative that governments impose rules to safeguard this. Local

communities must be involved, share financial benefits and be encouraged to
care about other pillars. As a tourist, we all gain from this.

Sustainable tourism shouldn't be a one-way street. So, everyone must take

part in this process one way or another. We all benefit with this. So, next time
you are going to travel make sure you think about this matter. Try to put in
practice simple steps like contributing to the local economy, stay in eco-
friendly places or eating where the locals eat.

Socio-cultural sustainability today and later will satisfy essential human

needs. Like for instance self-arrangement, social equity, wellbeing,
education, culture, religion, peace, human rights, balance throughout
everyday life and inspiration. All this, as a long-term process forming social
conditions for who and what is to come.

When a place is being visited for tourists there are social and cultural
impacts. Not only for travellers but, also for the host community. Local
people will see their space increase with strangers. New languages and

7
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

values are introduced and even the influx of migrant workers to be employed
in the tourism industry.

With all these factors is mandatory minimizing the negative impact and focus

on positive things. You always have to be respectful. So, promoting cultural
exchange and keeping local traditions are some of the things to have in
mind.

It is very interesting to getting local people involved in the tourism industry. In

fact, is even an opportunity for them and for tourists to exchange ideas. Is a
win-win situation. Where local communities can take visitors on a
more genuine experience.

Socio-cultural sustainability is optimistic for communities, they feel a sense

of ownership and pride. So, they will see tourism in a positive way.

Economic sustainability

Towards sustainable tourism, we shouldn’t forget economic sustainability. All

of this revolves around the money. It is inevitable those days. But, even
though money is not one of the best things in the world, it can be beneficial
for tourism.

Some people even argue money is the key to making a tourism venture
sustainable. In practical terms, economic sustainability means that we must
use, safeguard and sustain resources to create long-term sustainable
values by optimal use, recovery, and recycling.

It is essential to keep the money local. Just think about it, if the community is
getting involved they should benefit from that.

This is why, for example, when hotels or companies owned and operated by
a foreigner or huge international brands are not economically
sustainable. They aren´t giving back to the community or contribute to the
local economy.

It is imperative that governments impose rules to safeguard this. Local

communities must be involved, share financial benefits and be encouraged to
care about other pillars. As a tourist, we all gain from this.

8
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

Sustainable tourism shouldn't be a one-way street. So, everyone must take

part in this process one way or another. We all benefit with this. So, next time
you are going to travel make sure you think about this matter. Try to put in
practice simple steps like contributing to the local economy, stay in eco-
friendly places or eating where the locals eat.

Always make this exercise: which one is more sustainable? Consider these
points and you will be on the right way to become a sustainable tourist.

Please help us spread the message by sharing this article. It is important that
more tourists join the movement to change the travel industry. 

9
 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

VI. REFERENCES

Books:

Reil G. Cruz, Tourism impacts and sustainability

E-LEARNING RESOURCES

10