Residents’ Environmentally Responsible Behavior and Tourists’ Sustainable Use of Cultural Heritage: Mediation of Destination Identification and Self-Congruity as a Moderator

Abstract

In the face of escalating global concerns surrounding environmental sustainability and the preservation of cultural heritage, this research explores the intricate connection between residents’ environmentally responsible conduct (ERB) and tourists’ sustainable involvement with cultural heritage sites (SU). Highlighting the pivotal importance of destination identification (DI) as a mediator and self-congruity (SC) as a moderator, our study utilizes a quantitative data approach to investigate the nuanced relationships inherent in the domain of tourism destinations. The data were collected from 324 tourists (visiting Luxor heritage city in Egypt) and analyzed by PLS-SEM, and the results showed a positive correlation between residents who strongly identify with their local environment and an increased dedication to environmentally responsible actions. Moreover, tourists who demonstrate elevated levels of self-congruity with the cultural heritage destination are inclined to embrace more sustainable behaviors, thereby making positive contributions to heritage preservation initiatives. This study enriches the evolving domain of sustainable tourism by providing insights into the intricate interactions between residents and tourists, fostering environmentally responsible behavior, and promoting the sustainable utilization of cultural heritage. Practical applications encompass the formulation of community-based interventions, the design of destination marketing strategies, and the proposal of policy recommendations. These initiatives aim to enhance the engagement of both residents and tourists, fostering the long-term preservation of cultural and environmental assets. Ultimately, the research seeks to guide sustainable tourism practices that strike a balance between the economic advantages of tourism and the essential preservation of cultural heritage and natural environments for future generations.

Community Attachment to AlUla Heritage Site and Tourists’ Green Consumption: The Role of Support for Green Tourism Development

“…This dependence leads to vast interaction with the place, creating a resident-place attachment [64] that boosts their pro-environment behaviors [65]. Meanwhile, residents' eco-friendly behaviors may knock on visitors' attitudes and behaviors about environmental preservation at the destination [66,67]. Nevertheless, prior studies have primarily examined tourists' responsibilities and behaviors, with little attention given to the residents' roles in supporting the destination's sustainability [66,68].…”

“…Similarly, highly tourism-dependent residents (place dependence) are expected to give more support for sustainable tourism development [84]. Additionally, residents with a high level of affective attachment often strive to support green tourism practices to protect their destination's nature or heritage resources [67]. In sum, with its three sub-dimensions, community attachment may be positively associated with support for GTD.…”