engleski

Sustainable tourism as a driver for community development

n the 21st century the world is faced with different and severe environmental, economic, social and political problems caused by the unsustainable and irresponsible use of natural, human and cultural resources. There is a need for a transition towards a more conscious and responsible way of satisfying needs, i.e. the transition from a linear to a circular economy. Tourism, due to its size and interconnectedness with many parts of society and the economy, can be a powerful driver towards such change. Tourism development should result in economic development and the enhanced competitiveness of the host economy, contribute to social justice and equity, respect of cultural diversity and the improved quality of life of all the stakeholders involved. Also, tourism development should preserve natural resources and the biological diversity of the local community. The concept of sustainable tourism, introduced in this chapter, is based on four pillars: economic, social, environmental and cultural. The aim of this chapter is to elaborate the concept of sustainable tourism and its importance for long-term community development. It proposes current reflections on sustainable and/or responsible tourism, the importance of cultural heritage in achieving sustainable tourism, the possibilities of the revitalisation of fortifications through sustainable tourism and a model of involving various stakeholders in the local community in the valorisation of fortified heritage.

sustainable tourism, community development, cultural heritage, fortified heritage

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