Innovative sustainability practices in ecotourism and the hotel industry: Insights into circular economy and community integration

Remenyik, Bulcsú and Szőke, Brigitta and Veres, Boglárka and Dávid, Lóránt Dénes (2025) Innovative sustainability practices in ecotourism and the hotel industry: Insights into circular economy and community integration. JOURNAL OF INFRASTRUCTURE POLICY AND DEVELOPMENT, 9 (1). No.-10946. ISSN 2572-7923

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Abstract

The pressing need to redefine the tourism industry’s relationship with nature and local communities has never been more critical. Ecotourism, as a paradigm of sustainable travel, holds transformative potential—not only for preserving our planet’s fragile ecosystems but also for fostering local cultural and economic development. In this context, the integration of circular economy principles offers innovative pathways to enhance sustainability across the tourism sector. The application of circular economy frameworks in tourism not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances economic viability by creating closed-loop systems. My interest in this topic stems from a personal conviction: Tourism should leave a positive mark, one that enriches rather than diminishes the destinations we visit. This study delves into how the hotel industry can align itself with ecotourism principles by embracing innovative, sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact while delivering authentic, high-quality experiences for travelers. Through the lens of green energy, resource optimization, and cultural integration, the research demonstrates that sustainability is both an ethical responsibility and a pathway to long-term competitiveness in tourism. By supporting local economies and protecting natural heritage, the industry can shift from being a passive observer of environmental degradation to a proactive steward of change. This work serves as a call to action for stakeholders: Our choices today will define the landscapes and cultural legacies available to future generations.

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