Understanding the neglected : a framework for indicator selection in sustainable tourism

Abstract

This study developed and investigated responses to a new conceptual framework for sustainable tourism indicator development in a Scottish context.  In recent years, growing attention has been paid to both sustainable tourism indicators and to transparency in decision-making. This has been coupled with calls for academics to set out an underlying theory upon which a sustainability indicator approach could be based (Bell and Morse, 2008). This study responded to these calls. A conceptual framework of seven implicit determinants – concepts which this study contended affected indicator selection but which were not always considered explicitly was developed. Data were gathered from international sustainable tourism indicator authors and experts, stakeholders, and policy-makers.  This enabled an exploration of the relative importance of considering these implicit determinants, familiarity with them, possible links between them, and the potential for additional implicit determinants.  Analysis suggested the framework was of greatest use to strategic level policy-makers and that the framework should be introduced as early as possible into the indicator development process. It was also advocated that the framework should be considered in its entirety. Furthermore, four underlying reasons as to why people might approach indicator selection differently were advanced.  These included an individual’s role in indicator development, the amount of power an individual had, the context (political, institutional and geographical) in which an individual was developing indicators, and an individual’s familiarity with sustainability. This study provided Bell and Morse’s underlying theory to guide indicator selection and decision-taking, the form of a conceptual framework.  This will aid those developing indicators to make explicit decisions regarding the conceptual issues embedded in sustainable tourism indicator development. In doing so, it will increase transparency and improve the process of indicator selection.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo