Economy-led sustainable touristic city: the case of Surakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose This paper attempts to examine drivers of tourism development by affording a framework that sustains economic growth and protects the local environment. It develops evaluative and predictive models to measure city performance. Further, a strategy-based model of low carbon cities (SMLC) is used to demonstrate possible tourism development scenarios. The model was applied to the city of Surakarta to operationalize city's transformation towards sustainability. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology is constructed on three interrelated components: theoretical framework, analytical methods and SWOT. First, the authors have initiated this study by an understanding of linkages between planning and tourism. Second, the SMLC has been used to test sustainable tourism in the city of Surakarta. Third, Strength-Weakness-Opportunity-Threat (SWOT) analysis was applied to formulize the recommendations. Findings When evaluated by the static SMLC model, the city of Surakarta was categorized as an unsustainable touristic city. However, when the dynamic SMLC was applied, the city of Surakarta was categorized as a sustainable touristic city under a high economy scenario. By reason of the methodological and analytical frameworks and the dynamic SMLC, the city of Surakarta could be promoted to a sustainable touristic city after applying opportunity-seeking strategy and policies. Practical implications The paper concludes with policy implications to realign city plan and support sustainable tourism development in the city of Surakarta. Originality/value This paper attempts to develop a framework for sustainable tourism as it operates in the city of Surakarta by (1) introducing the sustainable touristic city concept, (2) definition and characters, (3) evaluative and predictive models using the SMLC to measure city performance of the city of Surakarta and (4) rigorous and relevant insight into the magnitude of the benefits of tourism.

Transforming Bubble Wrap and Packaging Plastic Waste into Valuable Fuel Resources

“…This economic activity generates significant amounts of waste, including plastic waste. Additionally, Surakarta has shown a commitment to sustainable development, as evidenced by the city's adoption of a Low Carbon City Action Plan in 2016 (Hasyimi & Azizalrahman, 2021). The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management practices.…”

Local Community Empowerment for Sustainable Tourism Development: A Case Study of Edelweiss Park Wonokitri Village

“…Efficient governance, regulations, structures, and tools are essential for guiding the development of sustainable tourism [18]. This framework emphasizes the importance of having the right structures and mechanisms in place to support sustainable tourism initiatives.…”

The Influence of City Branding and E-Wom On Interest In Visiting Religious Tourist Attractions In Surakarta The Role of The Intervening Variable City Image

“…Surakarta (Solo), as one of the cities in Indonesia, has great potential to develop religious tourism with a variety of tourist attractions that combine historical, cultural, and spiritual values. However, to maximize this potential, strategic efforts need to be made in building a strong and attractive city image for Surakarta as a religious tourism destination (Hasyimi & Azizalrahman, 2021).…”