Sustainability Indicator Systems Applied to Tourism

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of sustainability indicator systems used in studies on the development of sustainable tourism at the global and national level. The methodological procedures, of an exploratory nature, had a mixed approach combining statistical and quantitative data with a narrative review and bibliographical research. This led to an overview of publications that address sustainability indicators in tourism, as well as the most common indicator systems used nationally and internationally. It was possible to conclude that, even though they are important tools for tourism planning, sustainability indicators should not be unquestionable in their relevance in this process. This is because they are instruments that have flaws, either in their design or application. As practical implications of this research, the survey and analysis of indicators used for sustainable tourism planning may help in the creation and revision of sustainability indicators suitable for regional contexts. Furthermore, as a result of the present study, it was also observed that there is a gap regarding the contribution of Latin American studies on this topic.