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Gaps in sustainable tourism governance
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DOI：10.1080/15022250.2026.2670267.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Environmentally responsible behaviour (ERB) is widely recognised as essential for sustainable tourism, yet its governance remains fragmented and largely aspirational. This study examines how visitor behaviour is operationalised within a multi-level tourism governance system, using Estonia as a case. Drawing on 13 expert interviews across national, regional, and local institutions, we apply inductive content analysis to identify systemic gaps and enabling conditions. Findings reveal deficits in accountability, coordination, and participation, compounded by structural enablers that remain underdeveloped: limited local capacity and skills, absence of ERB monitoring routines, and fragmented digital information architectures. While actors affirm support for sustainability, behavioural tools, such as signage or incentives, are inconsistently integrated into destination routines. Non-traditional actors, including environmental infrastructure agencies and guides, emerge as critical behavioural amplifiers, yet lack formal recognition in governance frameworks. The study advances sustainable tourism governance theory by linking ERB to multi-level governance and highlighting the need for capability building, robust indicators, and integrated digital systems alongside mandates and coordination mechanisms. Practical implications include embedding ERB objectives in national strategies, strengthening DMOs as development coordinators, and institutionalising monitoring and co-designed interventions. These insights inform policy design and future research on behavioural governance in tourism.
Keywords:
Sustainable tourism
multi-level governance
behaviour governance
Journal
IF:
3.6
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553
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1.5K