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3D printing in tourism: an answer to sustainability challenges?

Galina Berjozkina (Department of Hospitality and Tourism, City Unity College Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus)
Rasoul Karami (Department of Design Manufacturing and Engineering Management, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK)

Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes

ISSN: 1755-4217

Article publication date: 20 September 2021

Issue publication date: 26 October 2021

536

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the potential for using 3D printing technology as a more sustainable tool in various areas of the tourism and hospitality industry in Cyprus.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose of this study, qualitative research was conducted to explore the potential for 3D printing technology deployment in Cyprus and specifically in tourism and hospitality settings. Interviews were conducted with industry professionals and practitioners using a snowball sampling method.

Findings

The tourism and hospitality industry currently uses 3D printing technology mainly to assist with the restoration of cultural heritage, sites but there is significant potential to implement 3D printing more widely in support of other building work, souvenirs and food items.

Originality/value

The paper explores current applications and the wider potential for using 3D technology in building, restoration of cultural heritage, souvenirs and food-related printing that together could contribute to a more sustainable tourism and hospitality industry in Cyprus.

Keywords

Citation

Berjozkina, G. and Karami, R. (2021), "3D printing in tourism: an answer to sustainability challenges?", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 13 No. 6, pp. 773-788. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-07-2021-0100

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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