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Residents' perceptions of the environmental and social impact of tourism in rural areas

Sotiroula Liasidou (Cyprus University of Technology, Lemesos, Cyprus)
Christiana Stylianou (Cyprus University of Technology, Lemesos, Cyprus) (Unicaf University, Larnaca, Cyprus)
Galina Berjozkina (City Unity College Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus)
Zanete Garanti (City Unity College Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus)

Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes

ISSN: 1755-4217

Article publication date: 15 September 2021

Issue publication date: 26 October 2021

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an understanding of residents' perceptions of how tourism activity in a rural area impacts their environment as well as their economic and social lives individually and as a community.

Design/methodology/approach

As a primary method of data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 residents in the rural areas of Cyprus.

Findings

The study's findings suggest that tourism activity in the rural areas provides a plethora of opportunities to residents, but comes with challenges and threats. Both social and environmental impacts are mainly for the benefit of the local communities as the engine of development. Emphasis is given to the revival of the local culture with the emergence of small and medium enterprises, along with the motivation of younger populations and women to become active entrepreneurs. However, a more holistic approach should be taken to sustainable tourism development in Cyprus, ensuring that all local communities have an opportunity to develop small-scale niche tourism products that enhance the image of rural destinations and which become a source of pride for the residents.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature by enhancing knowledge of the relationship between tourism and local rural communities. Shedding light on residents' perceptions by evaluating social and environmental impacts can guide government policy making and implementation.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank all participant who consent to participate in the interviews.

Citation

Liasidou, S., Stylianou, C., Berjozkina, G. and Garanti, Z. (2021), "Residents' perceptions of the environmental and social impact of tourism in rural areas", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 13 No. 6, pp. 731-743. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-07-2021-0099

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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