Advancing Responsible Tourism-Implementing Sustainable Development Goal Targets in Tourist Destinations

BULETINUL INSTITUTULUI POLITEHNIC DIN IAŞI Publicat de Universitatea Tehnică „Gheorghe Asachi” din Iaşi Volumul 71 (75), Numărul 3, 2025 Secţia CHIMIE şi INGINERIE CHIMICĂ DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17357142 ADVANCING RESPONSIBLE TOURISM-IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL TARGETS IN TOURIST DESTINATIONS BY RALUCA-MARIA ȚÂBULEAC1,, TIBERIU VLAD SIMION1, ELENA DIANA UNGUREANU COMĂNIȚĂ1 and MARIA GAVRILESCU1,2,3 1“Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi, “Cristofor Simionescu” Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Protection, Department of Environmental Engineering and Management, 700050, Iași, Romania 2Academy of Romanian Scientists, 3 Ilfov Street, 050044 Bucharest, Romania 3Academy of Technical Sciences of Romania, 26 Dacia Blvd., 010413 Bucharest, Romania Received: May 27, 2025 Accepted for publication: July 15, 2025 Abstract. The tourism sector holds a central role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as it generates jobs and income and contributes to economic growth. Factors such as globalization, changes in transportation, population growth, technological advancements, digital platforms, and increasing communication channels contribute to its development. This study aims to explore the convergence between responsible tourism and the SDGs, focusing on popular tourist destinations. It seeks to identify successful strategies and new approaches for promoting responsible tourism, focusing on poverty reduction, environmental protection, cultural heritage preservation, and inclusion. The paper also presents case studies from different destinations and offers concrete suggestions for policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and community members on how to incorporate fair tourism concepts into their strategies. The findings have implications for policy actors, stakeholders, and professionals involved in tourism management and sustainable development. A better understanding of the economic and environmental dimensions of tourism enables stakeholders to Corresponding author; e-mail: ra[email protected] 22 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. develop informed strategies to maximize the benefits of tourism while mitigating its negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Keywords: economic development, environmental conservation, SDGs, sustainability, tourism impact 1. Introduction The world’s tourism sector is one of the most important contributors to the economy, as well as a complex and multidimensional contributor to sustainable development. Although it provides great opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange (UNWTO, 2023a), it also brings significant problems such as environmental damage, socio-cultural disruption, and economic losses (Honey, 1999; Mejjad et al., 2022). This duality demands a shift towards responsible tourism practices with a commitment to sustainability and a contribution to the long-term socio-economic and environmental wellbeing of destinations and local communities (Ramkissoon, 2020). Not only is this transformation a desirable outcome, but it is equally an important imperative in light of the United Nations SDGs. These goals provide a framework for understanding and addressing the interconnection between tourism and broader sustainability challenges. Over several decades, responsible tourism has transitioned from limiting negative impacts to maximizing positive ones (Cohen, 1972; Godwin, 2016). As presented in Fig. 1, such co-creation is imperative, as the efforts towards sustainable tourism can never rest on a single sector and reinforce the benefits of coordinated and combined efforts (Font et al., 2021; Nguyen et al., 2018). Tourism planning and management need a greater commitment to community involvement and empowerment (Ashley and Roe, 2002; Khalid et al., 2019), ensuring the involvement of the local population in the decision-making process and the appropriate distribution of tourism benefits (Mak et al., 2017; Wearing, 2001). The implementation of sustainable practices in tourism has been driven by the adoption of the SDGs, as they represent a collective global effort to eradicate poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people prosper and live in peace and prosperity by 2030 (UN, 2015). This means linking tourism sector operations to the targets identified for each relevant SDG. Achieving this alignment requires a holistic assessment of how tourism intersects with multiple spheres of sustainable development (Khizar et al., 2023; Rosato et al., 2021). For example, promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) in tourism requires quality jobs, fair wages, and support for local businesses (Giousmpasoglou, 2024; Peña-Sánchez et al., 2020). Also, ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns (SDG 12) further stipulates the need to reduce waste generation, minimize energy and water consumption, and promote Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 23 sustainable supply chains through the tourism sector (Buhalis and Leung, 2018; Prados-Castillo et al., 2023). Initiatives that reduce waste and improve energy and water conservation in tourism leverage environmental engineering approaches, emphasizing the connection between responsible tourism policies and technical solutions for resource conservation. In Europe, the aim is to shift from exclusively quantitative development practices to sustainable, inclusive growth. EU Member States are increasingly emphasizing the role tourism plays in achieving sustainable development goals, promoting sustainable practices in order to minimize negative environmental and social impacts in the long term, with local communities benefiting from economic growth at the same time (European Commission, 2022). Fig. 1 − Major participants in tourism development (adapted from Nguyen et al., 2018). Recent studies have investigated the use of different frameworks and tools for localizing SDG targets in tourism destinations. Such examples are sustainable tourism indicators (Antoli et al., 2024; Elgin and Elveren, 2024; Spencer and Sargeant, 2022), destination management systems (Arici and Koseoglu, 2025; Allen and Scott, 2018; Lukoserviciute et al., 2024; Reinhold et al., 2023), and stakeholder engagement platforms (Hall, 2007; Hall, 2019; Mandić et al., 2024). In addition, a wide variety of studies exist with regard to technology and innovation in the promotion of responsible tourism (Boes et al., 2016; Gretzel et al., 2015; Mattila et al., 2025; Pasanchay and Schott, 2021). The increasing use of digital platforms, data analytics, and innovative smart tourism initiatives presents opportunities to improve destination management, enhance visitor experiences, and promote sustainable tourism practices (Neuhofer et al., 2015; Xiang et al., 2010). Responsible tourism practices adopted in the European Union include the promotion of destinations that prioritize environmental protection, cultural preservation, and community well-being, while projects are 24 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. supported through the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), which encourage tourism development concerning the SDGs, thus encouraging innovation in sustainable services and products (European Parliament, 2021). Also, several tools and resources have been developed within the EU to help destinations measure and monitor their sustainability performance, such as the European Tourism Indicator System (ETIS) (European Commission, 2016). However, translating the vision of responsible tourism and the aim of the SDGs into concrete action is still a challenge. While the ambition to embrace sustainable tourism development exists, many destinations face a lack of resources in terms of funding, institutional capacity, and willingness to implement effective sustainable tourism practices (Aas et al., 2005; Sharpley, 2018). The COVID-19 pandemic has also revealed the fragility of the tourism industry and created a demand for resilience and sustainable paths to postCOVID recovery (Hall et al., 2020; UNWTO, 2023b). The pandemic has also presented an opportunity to rethink tourism development and accelerate the transition towards a more responsible and sustainable model (Bosone and Nocca, 2022; Palazzo et al., 2022). This research aims to address the critical need for a deeper understanding of how to effectively implement SDG targets in tourist destinations. It will explore the various dimensions of responsible tourism, examine the challenges and opportunities associated with SDG implementation, and identify best practices for achieving sustainable tourism development. By drawing on a comprehensive review of the literature and incorporating recent advances in the field, this research aims to contribute to the knowledge on responsible tourism and provide practical guidance for stakeholders, destination managers, and tourism businesses. 2. Methodology We used a multi-method approach, analyzing policies and examining multiple case studies. In our investigation, we explored the European Union's (EU) tourism policy frameworks and carefully analyzed three case studies on tourist destinations. In the first phase, official EU strategy documents and reports were examined to understand how SDGs were integrated into tourism strategies at a large-scale perspective. After that, three case studies (Viscri in Romania, Dubrovnik in Croatia, and Benidorm in Spain) were selected to provide locallevel insights on responsible tourism practices in diverse contexts. There's a different type of tourism in each case study, as visitor preferences tend to vary, with the first one referring to a rural cultural heritage destination, the second to an urban heritage site dealing with overtourism, and the last case study presenting a mass tourism destination that adopts smart technologies, which allowed for a comparative analysis between different conditions. Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 25 The data used in the case studies was collected after a comprehensive review of existing literature, including academic publications, sustainability reports, as well as tourism statistics (e.g., WTTC, Interreg Europe, Eurostat). In each destination, tourism efforts and outcomes were correlated with relevant SDG goals, using the SDG framework as an analytical tool. This approach ensured that EU-level policy considerations were linked to local practices, aligning broad economic policies with microeconomic implementation. 3. Addressing sustainable development goals in tourism within the European Union Travel and tourism play a significant role in driving economies across the European Union (EU) countries and around the world. The tourism industry has been a contributor to economic growth and job creation in many countries (Budeanu, 2005), particularly during periods of economic downturn, although its potential negative impacts on the environment and local communities cannot be overlooked (Anderson, 2025). Moreover, the hospitality sector has faced challenges due to the impact of COVID 19 in recent times. The European Union's tourism sector has a decisive part in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sector's role in the EU's sustainable development agenda is highlighted in Fig. 2, illustrating its complex interconnections. This section examines the specific context of addressing the SDGs within the EU tourism sector, further exploring the opportunities and challenges shaping its sustainable development trajectory. Fig. 2 − Connections between the tourism sector and the Sustainable Development Goals (adapted from Buhalis et al., 2023). 26 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. 3.1. The EU tourism sector and its connection to the SDGs The primary contribution of tourism is its economic influence. Global statistics show that tourism generates substantial sources of revenue, often contributing significantly to a country's GDP. The many coastal resorts and urban destinations, as well as rural landscapes and cultural heritage sites, make the EU tourism sector diverse. There are both opportunities and challenges in this variety for the implementation of the SDGs. The economic importance of tourism within the EU is substantial, as reflected in its contribution to GDP (Fig. 3) and employment. The data presented by WTTC (2023a) demonstrates the role of the tourism sector in the global economy, i.e., it directly contributed with 7.6% to the global GDP, this contribution being also reflected in related industries (e.g., transportation, manufacturing). The tourism sector generates numerous employment opportunities in various sub-sectors, from accommodation and transportation services to local artisans. According to Eurostat statistics (Eurostat, 2024), more than 11.2 million people were employed in various tourism-related economic enterprises in the European Union, representing 20% of those employed in the services sector. The tourism sector accounted for about 9% of total employment in the non-financial business economy as a whole. Greece recorded the highest share (25.7%), followed by Cyprus and Malta with 17.5% and 15.0% respectively (Fig. 4). Sustainable tourism practices emphasize employing local workforce, providing equitable income and skills development, promoting inclusive economic growth and addressing gender dynamics in the workforce, thus ensuring equal opportunities and contributing to social sustainability (SDG 8). Fig. 3 − Regional performance of Travel and Tourism in 2022 (statistical data according to WTTC, 2023b). Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 27 Fig. 4 − Employees in total tourism industries and in selected tourism industries as a share of persons employed in total non-financial businesses in the economy in 2021 (%) (adapted from Eurostat, 2024). Table 1 shows additional insights on the main economic indicators, highlighting the sector's importance for the EU economy. This economic strength emphasizes tourism's capacity to be a potential driver for sustainable development, as long as its growth is managed responsibly. According to Eurostat data from 2024, 58% of the workforce in the hospitality sector in 2023 was represented by women, which is significant (Fig. 5). Most of them, 63%, work either in travel agencies or tour operators, with a high percentage also found in the accommodation sector, 59%. In terms of working hours, most women work full-time (42%), although according to the data presented in Fig. 5, it can also be observed that more and more women work parttime. In South-Western European countries (e.g. Luxembourg, Malta), women account for less than half of the jobs, whereas in North-Eastern European countries (e.g. Estonia, Latvia, Romania), more than 2/3 of the employees in the hospitality sector are women. The tourism sector has the potential to generate significant investments in basic infrastructure, including accommodation, transportation, and communications. Destinations that want to ensure long-term sustainability (SDG 9) prefer to promote responsible tourism, taking into account social and environmental impacts, thus managing to reduce negative impacts on the area over time. The expenditures made by EU residents (Fig. 6) contribute to poverty reduction (SDG 1), support the local economy, and also directly and indirectly support local enterprises and small businesses. 28 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. Table 1 Key economic indicators for the tourism industries in the European Union in 2021 (adapted from Eurostat, 2021) Tourism industry Enterprises (number) Net turnover (million €) Value added (million €) Persons employed (number) Land transport 418,360 89,088 50,718 1,438,717 Water transport 11,456 14,536 4,331 91,540 Passenger air transport 5,047 62,287 9,664 255,736 Total transport related 434,863 165,911 64,713 1,785,993 Hotels and similar accommodation 144,000 100,000 50,000 1,660,000 Holiday and other short-stay accommodation 204,060 20,480 8,207 390,000 Camping grounds, recreational vehicle parks and trailer parks 15,400 8,000 4,200 84,000 Total accommodation 363,460 128,480 62,407 2,134,000 Restaurants and mobile food service activities 920,000 225000 100,000 5,200,000 Beverage serving activities 500,000 51,100 21,000 1,600,000 Total food and beverage 1,420,000 276,100 121,000 6,800,000 Renting and leasing of cars and trucks 44,415 100,000 56,451 174,675 Renting and leasing of recreational and sports goods 18,000 2,548 1,100 33,837 Total car and other rental 62,415 102,548 57,551 208,512 Travel agency and tour operator activities 64,439 49,515 10,800 291,422 Other reservation service and related activities 33,000 6,328 2,267 70,700 Total travel agency, tour operator reservation service and related activities 101,198 55,844 13,067 363,122 Total tourism industries Tourism industries (mainly tourism) Tourism industries (partially tourism) 2,378,177 432,946 1,945,231 728,883 240,283 488,600 318,738 82,871 235,867 11,290,627 2,681,158 8,609,469 Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 29 Fig. 5 − Employment rates by gender, economic activity, and full-time/part-time in EU in 2023 (adapted from Eurostat, 2024). Fig. 6 − EU residents' average tourism expenditure per trip in 2023 (€) (adapted from Eurostat, 2025). 3.2. Incorporating sustainable development goals into European Union tourism policies The European Union (EU) is committed to integrate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into all its policies, including tourism. This has led to a shift in the EU's tourism agenda, with a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, smart innovation, and green transition. The European Commission realigned its tourism policy priorities at the end of 2019 to align with the Green Deal, focusing on decarbonizing travel, low-carbon transport modes, and energy efficiency in the hospitality sector (ECA, 2021). The EU adopted the European Agenda for Tourism 2030 in December 2022, which outlines five 36 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. Table 4 Sustainable tourism outcomes and SDG alignment in Benidorm, Spain (adapted from Enertic, 2022) Indicator Outcome SDG target Smart certification The first globally certified Smart Sustainable Tourism Destination (UNE 178501) has been established. SDG 9.1, SDG 11.3 Resource efficiency Smart water management has been implemented to minimize losses and improve energy efficiency in public and tourist buildings. SDG 6.4, SDG 7.3 Emissions and mobility Smart parking is being implemented to reduce traffic and improve air quality, in line with the climate plan. SDG 11.6, SDG 13.2 Tourist experience Real-time beach/attraction monitoring has improved safety and satisfaction, while reducing crowding. SDG 12.b, SDG 3.9 Innovation and partnership The development of local tech partnerships and the implementation of open-data innovation platforms have significantly contributed to economic and sustainability. SDG 17.16, SDG 8.2 This destination's Smart Sustainable Tourism initiative focuses on sustainable cities, innovation, and responsible consumption. It integrates environmental management into the city's infrastructure, reducing negative environmental impacts per capita by improving air quality and waste and water management (Aguirre et al., 2023; Enertic, 2022). The strategy based on the development and implementation of tools to monitor the impact of sustainable development on responsible tourism aligns with SDG 12.b, while the emphasis on energy and water efficiency aligns with SDGs 7.3 and 6.4. The city council also emphasized the need to build resilient infrastructure and encourage innovation, these aspects cover SDGs 9.5 and 17 (Enertic, 2022). The municipality's collaboration with local entrepreneurs and institutions exemplifies Goal 9.5 and SDG 17 by joining public and private sustainability efforts (Enertic, 2022). The responsible management of tourism activities and the transition to sustainable tourism from mass tourism bring benefits to local health and wellbeing, emphasizing the link between smart cities and responsible tourism. 5. Conclusions The study therefore implies that tourism can significantly improve the economic and social well-being of the EU through aligning industry practices with the Sustainable Development Goals. Managed responsibly, tourism can support economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection. However, without careful management tourism can lead to ecological Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 37 degradation or cultural commodification. Responsible tourism, focused on maximizing benefits and minimizing harm, underlies the SDGs as a key concept, aiming for decent employment for local people, cultural preservation and inclusive economic benefits. The study used a multi-method approach, combining qualitative case studies and policy analysis to examine sustainable tourism practices in Europe. The evidence from the three case studies showed that responsible tourism has been successful in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and they were selected to cover diverse European contexts. In Viscri, Romania, community-based rural tourism projects preserve traditional heritage and provide livelihoods, promoting decent work, community development and ecosystem conservation. In Dubrovnik, Croatia, high visitor pressure has led to regulatory measures aligned with sustainable urban development and protection of the marine environment. In Benidorm, Spain, initiatives focus on energy efficiency, waste reduction and off-peak tourism, reflecting responsible consumption, climate action and economic resilience. The study used a multi-method approach, combining qualitative case studies and policy analysis. It examined EU tourism strategies and thematic developments from conceptual frameworks to concrete examples. The methodological approach produced valuable insights, but limitations included focusing on three case studies and relying on qualitative data. The organizational structure, structured according to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) themes and EU vs. local levels, effectively linked macro policies to micro practices. However, the focus on EU examples limits transferability. However, documented sustainability practices and technical solutions, such as smart energy systems, waste recycling programs, and eco-certifications, can be a source of inspiration for tourism development in other parts of the world with similar socioeconomic and environmental conditions or related sustainability goals. The overall approach of the study allowed for a balanced analysis. Through comparing sector case studies under different conditions, a solid basis for understanding common principles and adaptations specific to the context of sustainable tourism in the EU was provided. It should be emphasized that in all three case studies, strategies were implemented to reduce water and energy consumption and improve waste management, as these are areas where tourism planning intersects with environmental engineering in order to optimize resource management. In order to foster sustainable tourism in EU destinations, it is recommended to integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into planning and development strategies. This includes addressing objectives such as ecosystem conservation, cultural heritage preservation and social inclusion. In addition, multi-level governance coordination between EU, national, regional and local authorities should be pursued to ensure coherence and avoid policy fragmentation. This can be achieved through collaboration between national tourism boards, regional bodies and municipalities. 38 Raluca-Maria Țâbuleac et al. To encourage sustainable tourism, it is essential to invest in training programs for public employees, tourism businesses and local communities. These programs should focus on sustainable practices and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Providing incentives for green investments, such as subsidies for renewable energy installations or funding for improved water and waste management systems, can encourage green practices. In addition, strategies can be implemented to manage visitor numbers and spread demand, such as promoting alternative destinations, supporting off-season events and using digital tools to inform tourists about crowding. Performance indicators based on the SDG targets should be developed to monitor the impact of tourism, with transparent reporting at destination and national level. Supporting innovation and diversification in sustainable tourism can be achieved through research and pilot projects, reducing reliance on mass market segments. Collaboration with technology providers and academic institutions can accelerate the achievement of the SDGs and maintain competitiveness. Appendix 1 Table Explanation of the SDG targets SDG target Goal title Target description SDG 3.9 Good health and well-being By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination. SDG 6.4 Clean water and sanitation By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity. SDG 7.3 Affordable and clean energy By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency. SDG 8.2 Decent work and economic growth Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation. SDG 8.3 Decent work and economic growth Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation. SDG 8.9 Decent work and economic growth By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products. SDG 9.1 Industry, innovation and infrastructure Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being. SDG 11.3 Sustainable cities and communities Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated and sustainable human settlement planning and management. Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 39 SDG 11.4 Sustainable cities and communities Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage. SDG 11.6 Sustainable cities and communities By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. SDG 12.5 Responsible consumption and production By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse. SDG 12.7 Responsible consumption and production Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities. SDG 12.8 Responsible consumption and production Ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature. SDG 12.b Responsible consumption and production Develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products. SDG 13.2 Climate action Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning. SDG 15.1 Life on land By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services. SDG 17.16 Partnerships for the goals Enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology and financial resources. SDG 17.17 Partnerships for the goals Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships. REFERENCES Aas C., Ladkin A., Fletcher J., Stakeholder collaboration and heritage management, Annals of Tourism Research, 72, 1, 28-48 (2005). Aguirre A., Zayas A., Gomez-Carmona D., Lopez Sanchez J.A., Smart tourism destinations really make sustainable cities: Benidorm as a case study, International Journal of Tourism Cities, 9, 1, 51-69 (2023). 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Sectorul turismului deține un rol central în atingerea acestor obiective, întrucât generează locuri de muncă și venituri contribuind la creșterea economică. Expansiunea industriei este atribuită unor factori precum globalizarea, schimbările în domeniul transportului, creșterea populației, progresele tehnologice, platformele digitale și extinderea canalelor de comunicare. Acest studiu își propune să exploreze convergența dintre turismul responsabil și ODD-uri, concentrându-se pe destinațiile turistice cunoscute. Se urmărește identificarea strategiilor de succes și a metodelor noi de promovare a turismului responsabil, în special prin reducerea sărăciei, protecția mediului, conservarea patrimoniului cultural și incluziune socială. Lucrarea prezintă, de asemenea, studii de caz din diferite destinații și propune recomandări concrete pentru factorii de decizie politică, părțile interesate din domeniul turismului și membrii comunităților cu privire la modul de încorporare a conceptelor de turism responsabil în strategiile lor. Concluziile au implicații pentru factorii de decizie, Bul. Inst. Polit. Iaşi, Vol. 71 (75), Nr. 3, 2025 45 părțile interesate și profesioniștii implicați în gestionarea turismului și dezvoltarea durabilă. O mai bună înțelegere a dimensiunilor economice și de mediu ale turismului permite părților interesate să elaboreze strategii informate pentru a maximiza beneficiile turismului, atenuând în același timp impactul negativ al acestuia asupra mediului și comunităților locale.