The Dual Faces of Active Tourism: Leisure Enhancement and Environmental Dilemmas

Abstract

Active tourism, encompassing activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering, significantly contributes to leisure and economic growth in rural and natural settings. However, it poses environmental dilemmas that threaten ecological integrity. This chapter addresses the problem of balancing economic incentives with environmental preservation in active tourism, asking: How can active tourism be aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs)? To explore this, we employ a methodology comprising a literature review, case studies, and behavioural analysis. The results reveal that while active tourism enhances personal well-being and stimulates local economies, it also leads to environmental degradation due to factors like economic pressures and inadequate regulatory frameworks. We propose strategies such as diversifying tourism offerings, strengthening regulations, and promoting eco-friendly behaviours to mitigate these impacts. These findings underscore the importance of integrating sustainable practices into active tourism to ensure its long-term viability and ecological integrity.