Importance of environment quality in sustainable tourism destinations: the young tourists' perception

Abstract

In the framework of sustainable development, the tourist industry demand increases in rigorousness and must pay more attention to environmental quality. In this context, this study aims to analyse the perception and attitude of the Young Generation of Tourists (YGT) regarding environmental quality, one direction in sustainable tourist destinations. The objectives of research focus on analysing the perception regarding environmental issues in vacation destinations, in order to identify how strongly is the YGT oriented towards sustainable tourism, followed by testing their pro-environmental behavioural profile. The study used the survey method applying the questionnaire as a tool, processed in SPSS V 27. The results show that young Romanians have a proenvironmental perception regarding the quality of most environmental components (air, water, vegetation). The perception is in line with their behaviour which demonstrates their awareness of the need to carry out tourist activities in modern, sustainable conditions, which affect the environment as little as possible. We also found that the YGT's involvement in environmental actions in tourist areas is limited.

Young adult tourists’ intentions to visit rural community-based homestays

“…In 2019, prior to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, youth tourism generated nearly US$330bn in tourism revenues (WYSE Travel Confederation, 2020). Youth tourists have been recognised as a significant force in the tourism industry and represent the market of the future (Pîrghie and Matei, 2020; Vukic et al , 2015).…”