Multiple factors determine the foundations of success in the tourism sector, and even more specific are the factors that positively influence the development process of tourism initiatives from a sustainability perspective. In this context, the relationship between the most relevant factors for sustainable tourism development—now an indispensable concept—and the principles promoted by the SDGs appear strictly connected.
The tourism sector plays a significant role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Tourism plays a pivotal role in driving global economic growth and cultural exchange, and it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Two of the key goals in this agenda, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), are particularly relevant for the tourism industry. Both goals outline a vision for a more inclusive and equitable world, and the tourism sector is well-positioned to help achieve these aims by promoting sustainable practices and fair economic participation. Tourism contributes to economic development, job creation, and cultural exchange, but sustainable and inclusive practices can only fully realise their potential. Applying these two SDGs in the tourism industry offers an opportunity to promote fair economic growth, reduce social inequalities, and enhance the overall sustainability of the sector.
In this context, it appears clear how the tourism industry can create decent employment opportunities by developing training programs that improve workers’ skills and career advancement, especially for local communities in developing regions. A study by Scheyvens & Hughes (2019) suggests that tourism development should prioritize community-based approaches, allowing locals to own and manage tourism enterprises, which fosters economic empowerment and poverty alleviation.
SDG goal n.8 aims to promote sustained economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all. Tourism is a crucial industry in this regard, representing about 10.4% of global GDP and employing 1 in 10 people worldwide (UNWTO, 2019). However, the sector faces challenges such as precarious employment, low wages, and seasonal labour, especially in developing countries. To align tourism with SDG 8, it is essential to focus on improving job quality and ensuring fair labour practices.
The successful implementation of the goals promoted by the SDGs implies a direct and intrinsic connection with the principles of sustainability. Sustainability in tourism practices is another relevant key driver for SDG 8. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), sustainable tourism that integrates environmental stewardship—such as eco-tourism and low-impact travel—ensures long-term economic resilience while reducing environmental degradation. By promoting responsible consumption of resources and limiting carbon footprints, the tourism sector can continue to grow while contributing to a more sustainable global economy.
Differently, the impacts that can be generated by the application of the principles promoted by the SDG goal n.10, address different aspects that focus on reducing inequality within and among countries, a goal that the tourism sector can actively support. Tourism often links wealthier tourists from developed nations with destinations in low-income regions, making it a vehicle for wealth redistribution. However, to truly contribute to reducing inequalities, tourism development must ensure inclusive participation of marginalized groups, such as women, indigenous populations, and people with disabilities.
Incorporating inclusive tourism policies can ensure that benefits reach disadvantaged communities. For example, accessible infrastructure that caters to people with disabilities promotes equal access to tourism services, increasing economic opportunities for all. Furthermore, the involvement of indigenous communities in tourism allows these groups to benefit from tourism while also preserving their cultural heritage.
The tourism sector, in its various and multiple forms and expressions, has the innate capacity to sustain the practical application of different principles promoted by the SDG and by the principle of Sustainability, in particular encouraging global cooperation, contributing to peacebuilding and cultural understanding. International tourism fosters connections between diverse groups, promoting social cohesion and reducing tensions rooted in inequality. Collaborative frameworks such as public-private partnerships (PPPs) can enhance global tourism strategies, as these partnerships combine government regulation, private sector innovation, and NGO involvement to ensure sustainable and inclusive tourism practices (UNWTO, 2020).
While tourism has the potential to drive progress toward SDG 8 and SDG 10, several challenges must be addressed. The uneven distribution of tourism revenue, environmental impacts, and over-reliance on foreign-owned tourism businesses are major barriers to achieving sustainable and equitable growth. According to the UNWTO (2020), nearly 80% of tourism revenue in developing countries often returns to developed nations through foreign-owned enterprises, creating a significant leakage effect.
To mitigate these challenges, tourism strategies must prioritize local ownership and reinvestment in community-based infrastructure. Governments should implement policies that incentivize local entrepreneurship, particularly for SMEs, while also ensuring fair competition with larger, often foreign-owned businesses.
