SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AS A STRATEGIC RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE AND OVERTOURISM

Abstract

This study examines sustainable tourism as a strategic response to the interconnected challenges of climate change and overtourism. Tourism significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through transportation and accommodation sectors, while simultaneously being vulnerable to climate-related risks. In addition, overtourism in major destinations such as Venice and Barcelona has created environmental degradation, social tensions, and economic imbalances. Using a qualitative research design based on literature review and comparative case study analysis, this research evaluates sustainability strategies within the triple-bottom-line framework. The findings indicate that regulatory measures, visitor management systems, environmental taxation, and community-based tourism initiatives can effectively reduce environmental impact and social pressure while maintaining economic viability. The study concludes that sustainable tourism represents an integrated governance model essential for long-term destination resilience and climate adaptation.