Global importance, local problems

Tourism-driven economic growth in UNESCO World Heritage Sites often leads to ecological strain and social challenges, complicating the adoption of degrowth policies aimed at sustainable tourism. A study analyzing mature (Cinque Terre) and emerging (Northern Dolomites) Italian sites reveals that while degrowth measures can mitigate environmental damage and tourist congestion, their implementation is hindered by economic reliance on tourism in established destinations and short-term growth priorities in emerging ones. The research critiques the feasibility of degrowth strategies, highlighting tensions between conservation goals and local economic needs.

Amore, A., & Adie, B. A. (2020). Global importance, local problems. Degrowth and Tourism, 85–99. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429320590-8