Sustainable coastal and marine tourism in bangladesh: A qualitative evaluation

Purpose – The sustainable coastal and marine tourism can be regarded as a prerequisite for ensuring socioeconomic development and maintaining an ecological balance on the planet, and it has drawn keen attention among academicians, professionals, and stakeholders. This case-studybased qualitative research employed a multi-stakeholder approach, assessing the economic, sociocultural, and environmental impacts, both positive and negative, on coastal destinations. Methodology – Data have been primarily collected through direct observation and face-to-face interviews backed by secondary literature. Semi-structured questionnaires were employed to gather data from a variety of tourism-related stakeholders from Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, considered as tourist hotspots in Bangladesh. Findings – The results revealed critical economic, social, and environmental interdependent strategic issues responsible for the sustainable CMT industry. Significance of the research – The study contributes to sustainability models through addressing how multi-stakeholder collaboration can boost sustainable practices in tourism, integrating actionable recommendations based on ‘10Ls’ factors for execution by relevant authorities. Originality of the research – The originality of the study is placed on its evaluation of sustainable practices in a tourism industry vulnerable to climate change. It presents a strategic framework that provides theoretical and managerial understandings, aiding stakeholders make informed decisions to enhance sustainable tourism.