Rationale of the Study

The dependent variable, environmental sustainability, is a pressing concern globally,

particularly in the context of tourism development. Studies have shown that
environmental degradation, including pollution, habitat destruction, and loss of
biodiversity, is a significant issue in many tourism destinations (Hall & Lew, 2020;
UNWTO, 2020). The impact of environmental degradation can be severe, including
loss of ecosystem services, decreased economic opportunities, and negative impacts
on human health (IPCC, 2022).

The implications of environmental sustainability are far-reaching, and its importance

cannot be overstated. Environmental sustainability is crucial for maintaining
ecosystem services, supporting human well-being, and promoting economic
development (Dasgupta, 2021). The loss of environmental sustainability can have
significant economic and social implications, including decreased economic
opportunities, reduced quality of life, and increased social vulnerability (Salazar,
2021).

The relationship between tourism development (independent variable) and

environmental sustainability (dependent variable) is complex and multifaceted.
Studies have shown that tourism development can have both positive and negative
impacts on environmental sustainability, depending on the context and management
practices (Buckley, 2020). While tourism can generate revenue and create jobs, it
can also lead to environmental degradation, including pollution, habitat destruction,
and loss of biodiversity (Hall & Lew, 2020).

There is an urgent need for further research on the impact of tourism development
on environmental sustainability, particularly in the context of sustainable
ecotourism. Despite the growing body of research on tourism and environmental
sustainability, there is a lack of studies that investigate the relationship between
tourism development and environmental sustainability in a comprehensive and
integrated manner (Fennell, 2022). This study aims to address this research gap by
investigating the impact of tourism development on environmental sustainability and
proposing a framework for sustainable ecotourism.

Background of the study

Globally, environmental sustainability has become a pressing concern, particularly in
the context of tourism development. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has
highlighted the need for sustainable tourism practices to mitigate the negative
impacts of tourism on the environment (UNWTO, 2020). Studies have shown that
tourism development can lead to environmental degradation, including pollution,
habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity (Hall & Lew, 2020). The impact of
tourism on the environment has significant implications for the long-term
sustainability of tourism destinations.

In the Philippines, tourism development has been a significant contributor to the

national economy, but it has also raised concerns about environmental
sustainability. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (2022), the tourism
industry accounted for 12.7% of the country's GDP in 2020. However, the rapid
growth of tourism has also led to environmental degradation, including pollution,
deforestation, and loss of biodiversity (Ong et al., 2021). The Philippine government
has recognized the need for sustainable tourism practices and has implemented
policies to promote environmentally friendly tourism development.
At the local level, the impact of tourism development on environmental sustainability
is a significant concern. Studies have shown that tourism development can lead to
overutilization of natural resources, pollution, and loss of cultural heritage (Salazar,
2021). In many local communities, the influx of tourists has resulted in increased
pressure on infrastructure, leading to issues such as waste management, water
pollution, and loss of natural habitats (Holden & Fennell, 2022). This study aims to
investigate the impact of tourism development on environmental sustainability and
propose a framework for sustainable ecotourism.

Research Objectives
This research intends to explore the effect of the development of tourism on its
environmental sustainability and suggest an approach for sustainable ecotourism.
The goals of the study are as follows:

1. To examine tourism growth within the region of study.

2. To analyze the environmental resources in the region under study.
3. To establish how the tourism development impact on the environment and
how it is sustained.
4. To determine which component of tourism development (socio-economic or
environmental) mainly supports sustainability of the environment.

Discussion of Research Objectives

The level of tourism Development (IV)

The primary goal of this investigation is to measure the degree to which tourism has
developed in the region under study. This includes measuring the volume of tourists,
available tourism facilities, and other economic activities related to tourism. This
comprehensive assessment helps the researcher understands the impact of tourism
development on around the area and causes unsustainability. Evaluating tourism
development is vital for identifying its outputs and being able to deal with
countermeasures to aid restore tourism resources that are in danger of being
destroyed.

Level of Environmental Sustainability (DV)

The secondary aim is to determine the degree of environmental sustainability in the

region of study. This includes analyzing the degree to which the environmental
resources are being optimally utilized, pollution controlled, and ecosystems
maintained. Evaluating the degree of environmental sustainability will help
understand the possible consequences of tourism development in the region.
Knowing the current status of environmental sustainability, the study will be able to
determine what needs to be done and how to foster sustainable tourism practices.

Relationship between Tourism Development and Environmental

Sustainability

The third objective is to explore the relationship between tourism development and
environmental sustainability. This includes evaluation of the impacts, both positive
and negative, that tourism development incurs upon the sustainability of the
environment. This is important in coming up with possible solutions to reduce the
adverse effects of tourism activities on nature. Analyzing the relationship between
tourism development and environmental sustainability will allow the study to
examine the other possible impacts of economic growth—this time focusing on
ecological health and the environment.

Best Predictor of Environmental Sustainability

The fourth goal is to ascertain which domain of tourism development (economic,

social or environmental) makes the most accurate prediction of environmental
sustainability. This study will examine the predictive power of each domain in
relation to environmental sustainability to determine the primary domains that can
most effectively advance sustainable tourism practices. Through understanding the
best predictor of environmental sustainability, policy makers and other players in
tourism development can design and execute sustainable tourism initiatives which
effectively protect the environment.

Null Hypothesis
In this case, the authors suggest the null hypothesis as follows:

H01: No significant relationship exists between the development of tourism and

environmental sustainability.

H02: No significant difference exists when comparing various levels of tourism

development concerning environmental sustainability.

H03: No one domain of tourism development (economic, social, or environmental) is

a significant predictor of environmental sustainability.

The framework above implies that the development of tourism does not significantly
affect environmental sustainability, nor do the different aspects of tourism
development meaningfully contribute to predicting environmental sustainability.

Theoretical Framework
This research is based on two theoretical frameworks that offer a basis for explaining
the relationship between tourism development and environmental sustainability:

Stakeholder Theory
The Stakeholder Theory, developed by Freeman (1984), suggests that organizations
have a responsibility to various stakeholders, including customers, employees,
suppliers, and the community. In the context of tourism development, stakeholders
include tourists, local communities, government agencies, and tourism operators.
This theory is relevant to this study as it highlights the importance of considering the
interests and needs of various stakeholders in tourism development, including
environmental sustainability.

Triple Bottom Line (TBL) Theory

The Triple Bottom Line Theory, developed by Elkington (1997), suggests that
organizations should prioritize not only economic performance but also social and
environmental performance. This theory is relevant to this study as it provides a
framework for evaluating the impact of tourism development on environmental
sustainability, while also considering economic and social factors.

These two theories offer a basis for explaining the intricate relationships between
tourism development and environmental sustainability, and can be used to inform
the creation of a framework for sustainable ecotourism.

Application of Theories
Stakeholder Theory and Triple Bottom Line Theory can be used in the following ways
to this research:

- Stakeholders and their interest in tourism development

- Assessing the economic, social, and environmental effects of tourism development
- Formulating measures of balancing economic, social, and environmental
performance in tourism development

With the application of these theories, this research has the potential to shed light on
the connection between environmental sustainability and tourism development, and
contribute to the formulation of a framework for sustainable ecotourism.

Conceptual Framework
The complex interrelation between tourism development and environmental
sustainability is the research focus, with the literature reporting the diverse effects of
tourism on the environment (Albu, Brasov local community study; comparative case
analysis of Cárdenas-García & Alcalá-Ordoñez; environmental sustainability by Said
et al.). With the continued development of tourism, it is important to conceptualize
the interrelations between tourism development and environmental sustainability to
guide sustainable tourism practice strategies. This theoretical framework seeks to
present the intricate dynamics involved, drawing upon current literature to guide the
creation of an integrative framework for sustainable ecotourism.

Independent Variable (IV): Tourism Development

Indicators:

1. Economic Gains (Tourist Expenditures, Employment Generation) (Albu)

2. Social Impacts (Cultural Exchange, Community Involvement) (Cárdenas-García &
Alcalá-Ordoñez)
3. Environmental Impacts (Use of Natural Resources, Pollution) (Said et al.)

Dependent Variable (DV): Environmental Sustainability

Indicators:

1. Natural Resource Conservation (Water, Energy, Land) (Said et al.)

2. Reducing Pollution and Waste (Air, Water, Land)
3. Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystems (Flora, Fauna, Ecosystems)

The conceptual structure can be schematically depicted as follows:

Tourism Development (IV)

→ Economic Benefits
→ Social Impacts
→ Environmental Impacts
↓
Environmental Sustainability (DV)
← Conservation of Natural Resources
← Reducing Pollution and Waste
← Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Significance of the Study

This research is important in a number of ways:

1. Theoretical Contribution: This research adds to the current knowledge base on

environmental sustainability and tourism development, giving a holistic model of
understanding complex relationships between variables.

2. Practical Implications: The outcome of this research can guide policymakers,

tourism operators, and environmental groups in making plans for sustainable
tourism activities with reduced adverse impacts on the environment.

3. Conservation of the Environment: Through determination of the effects of tourism

development on environmental sustainability, this research can support the
conservation of natural resources, protection of biodiversity, and reduction of
pollution.

4. Sustainable Development: This study's emphasis on sustainable ecotourism can

ensure sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and
Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

5. Benefits to Stakeholders: The findings of the study can accrue benefits to various
stakeholders such as local communities, tourism businesses, and government
authorities by contributing to the economic, social, and environmental benefits of
tourism development.

Scope and Limitations

Scope:
1. Geographical Scope: This study focuses on the impact of tourism development on
environmental sustainability in a specific context (e.g., Brasov local community).
2. Thematic Scope: The study explores the economic, social, and environmental
impacts of tourism development on environmental sustainability.
3. Methodological Scope: The study employs a comprehensive literature review and
conceptual framework development.

Limitations:
1. Contextual Limitation: The study's findings may be context-specific and may not
be generalizable to all tourism destinations.
2. Methodological Limitation: The study's reliance on existing literature may limit the
depth of analysis and primary data collection.
3. Variable Limitation: The study focuses on specific variables (economic benefits,
social impacts, environmental impacts, and environmental sustainability) and may
not capture other relevant factors.
4. Temporal Limitation: The study's cross-sectional nature may not capture
longitudinal changes and trends in tourism development and environmental
sustainability.

By acknowledging these scope and limitations, this study provides a clear

understanding of its boundaries and potential areas for future research.
 Operational Indicators
Tourism Development
1. Economic Benefits:
- Tourist Expenditure (Albu, Brasov local community study)
- Employment Generation (Albu, Brasov local community study)
2. Social Impacts:
- Cultural Exchange (Cárdenas-García & Alcalá-Ordoñez, comparative case study)
- Community Involvement (Cárdenas-García & Alcalá-Ordoñez, comparative case
study)
3. Environmental Impacts:
- Utilization of Resources (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
- Pollution (Said et al., environmental sustainability)

Environmental Sustainability
1. Natural Resource Conservation:
- Water Conservation (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
- Energy Efficiency (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
2. Pollution and Waste Reduction:
- Waste Management (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
- Pollution Reduction (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
3. Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystems:
- Preservation of Habitat (Said et al., environmental sustainability)
- Conservation of Species (Said et al., environmental sustainability)

These operational indicators offer quantitative variables to measure the effect of

tourism development on environmental sustainability.

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Dasgupta, P. (2021). The economics of biodiversity: The Dasgupta Review. HM

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