A multi‐layer matrix model of sustainable tourism: Process, measurement areas, gap and reconnection analyses

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to describe a multi‐layer matrix model of sustainable tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual discussion and illustration is provided.

Findings

It incorporates multiple layers of a proposed process of sustainable tourism and areas of measurement interconnected through a series of gap and reconnection analyses.

Research limitations/implications

Opportunities for further research are offered.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the importance of linking planning and implementation to evaluation and control, but it also stresses the importance of reconnecting back to ongoing planning and implementation, in order to make necessary revisions in the process of sustainable tourism.

Originality/value

One contribution is that sustainable tourism is not defined as a concept or construct, but as a process, since there are no achievements or progress in sustainable practices without a sequence of inter‐connected and measureable doings in the context of markets and societies. Another contribution is that the process of sustainable tourism is continuous and iterative.

Citation

Padin, C. and Svensson, G. (2013), "A multi‐layer matrix model of sustainable tourism: Process, measurement areas, gap and reconnection analyses", European Business Review, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 206-216. https://doi.org/10.1108/09555341311302684