The long-term viability of the tourism and hospitality industry hinges on its ability to accommodate increasing global demand while minimizing its environmental impact and preserving the well-being of local communities. As the sector evolves, the concept of sustainable development has become central—encompassing environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic resilience. Although interpretations of sustainability vary, a growing consensus aligns with the framework provided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), introduced in 2015 as a universal roadmap toward a more equitable and sustainable future by 2030. These goals have steadily shaped policies and strategies across both public and private sectors, becoming a foundational reference in sustainability initiatives. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant setbacks, exposing vulnerabilities in global systems and underscoring the urgent need for coordinated action. Within this context, fostering sustainable behaviors among stakeholders in tourism and hospitality is more critical than ever, demanding innovative approaches, cross-sector collaboration, and a renewed commitment to the principles outlined in the UNSDGs.
A. Cheng (2025) studied this question.