Regenerative Tourism – The Concept of Moving Beyond Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Abstract

This chapter explores the concept of regenerative tourism as a sustainable approach to travel and destination development. It examines the interconnectedness of regenerative agriculture and tourism, incorporating the adaptive cycle model and principles from the regenerative development framework. The chapter proposes a conceptual framework comprising five design dimensions: regeneration mindset, inherent potential, systems capability, intended system effects and tasks and resources. These dimensions guide the design and development of regenerative tourism interventions, aiming to shift the tourism regime towards regeneration. The chapter highlights the importance of adopting an ecological worldview, discovering the unique potential of each place, leveraging tourism living systems, creating regenerative places and communities and collaborating to enact regenerative approaches. Regenerative tourism offers solutions for rethinking and rebuilding the tourism industry, enhancing local economies, preserving cultures and biodiversity and providing transformative experiences for guests. The descriptive methodology allows for a comprehensive exploration and explanation of the conceptual framework and its potential implications for the tourism industry. It serves to inform readers about the key concepts, principles and dimensions of regenerative tourism, facilitating a better understanding of its theoretical foundations and practical applications. The chapter concludes that regenerative tourism requires a change in the economic model and societal perspective, focusing on qualitative development and improving human well-being through ecosystem health. It recommends the adoption of regenerative practices, emphasizing the positive impacts on destinations and stakeholders. Future directions include further research on regenerative tourism's effectiveness, exploring innovative strategies and technologies and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enhance its implementation.

Citation

Alhitmi, H.K., Rahman, E.Z. and Bayram, G.E. (2024), "Regenerative Tourism – The Concept of Moving Beyond Responsible and Sustainable Tourism", Alnoor, A., Bayram, G.E., XinYing, C. and Shah, S.H.A. (Ed.) The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Regenerative Tourism and Green Destinations (New Perspectives in Tourism and Hospitality Management), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 33-50. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83753-746-420241003