The social and environmental impacts on local residents from tourist accommodation near protected areas

Tourism, while beneficial for local economic development and living conditions, can exacerbate social inequities and environmental challenges near protected areas. A study on Longweiba village within China's Wulingyuan Historic and Scenic Area reveals that the presence of boutique rural hotels and bed-and-breakfast enterprises, intended to offset conservation impacts, has led to significant concerns among residents, including unfair regulations, inconsistent governance, and environmental degradation such as sewage pollution and water shortages. The research, employing ethnographic methods and interviews with 30 residents and a government official, highlights that poor planning, inequitable policies, and inconsistent enforcement have worsened these issues. The findings underscore the need for better governance, inclusive community engagement, and clear policies to ensure sustainable and equitable tourism development near protected areas.

Zhang, Y., Hanna, P., & Vanclay, F. (2026). The social and environmental impacts on local residents from tourist accommodation near protected areas. Environmental Management, 76(3). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00267-026-02385-5