The Impact of Regenerative Tourism Practices on Environmental Resilience in Island Destinations: A Multi-Stakeholder Analysis of New Zealand

Abstract

This paper analyses how regenerative tourism practices can advance the environmental resilience of island destinations by minimizing tourism's negative impact and moving towards net-positive outcomes. The urgency of the research study is evident in the natural and anthropogenic dangers and disasters already faced by most destinations and the increasing need for environmental resilience. The economic dependence of many island destinations on the tourism industry means ways to mitigate climate change without threatening the tourism industry are vital. This explorative study argues the concept of regenerative tourism with its focus on co-creation is an effective and implementable strategy to give more back than taken and renew and regenerate the destination. The example of New Zealand (NZ) with a thematic analysis of semi-structured in-depth interviews with expert stakeholders in the NZ tourism landscape focuses on environmental pressures impacting environmental resilience and the role of regenerative tourism practices. The data show a move from a mainly short-term economic focus to a concentration on and awareness of the need to develop long-term environmental resilience through stakeholder collaboration and regenerative policies. These findings although specific to NZ provide insights for other island destinations through the clear benefit to both visitors and residents of an increased focus on the aim of net-positive rather than net-zero in improving the environment.

Citation

Bode, C., Hindley, C. and Legrand, W. (2024), "The Impact of Regenerative Tourism Practices on Environmental Resilience in Island Destinations: A Multi-Stakeholder Analysis of New Zealand", Chen, J.S. (Ed.) Advances in Hospitality and Leisure, Volume 20 (Advances in Hospitality and Leisure, Vol. 20), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 159-178. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1745-354220240000020009