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Circular economy and sustainability in the tourism industry: critical analysis of integrated solutions and good practices in European and Chinese case studies

Author

Listed:
  • Kan Li

    (Xi’an Technological University)

  • Giulia Cipolletta

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

  • Corinne Andreola

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

  • Anna Laura Eusebi

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

  • Barbara Kulaga

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

  • Silvio Cardinali

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

  • Francesco Fatone

    (Marche Polytechnic University)

Abstract

The concepts of sustainability and circular economy (CE) have attracted enormous attention in the academic, business and political spheres. However, a systematic review of case studies concerning CE in the tourism industry remains lacking. The present study collected good environmental management practices and circular solutions related to energy, water and waste from tourist accommodations in Italy/Europe and China. Moreover, sustainable procedures were critically discussed within the strategic water-energy-waste-food-transport (WEWFT) nexus. When comprehensive data were available, good practices were also measured by Circular Indicators (CIs) and compared to benchmark values set by existing certification or labelling. CIs support the innovative, resilient and sustainable development and assessment of the tourism industry. Most of the strategies were focused on energy optimization and a lack of tangible data was depicted for food and waste management.

Suggested Citation

  • Kan Li & Giulia Cipolletta & Corinne Andreola & Anna Laura Eusebi & Barbara Kulaga & Silvio Cardinali & Francesco Fatone, 2024. "Circular economy and sustainability in the tourism industry: critical analysis of integrated solutions and good practices in European and Chinese case studies," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 26(7), pages 16461-16482, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:26:y:2024:i:7:d:10.1007_s10668-023-03395-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-023-03395-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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