Business model based on community for a sustainable tourism development

Abstract

Improper management practices in tourism can have an undesirable impact on the environment and society and can threaten both the development of tourism and the economic viability of communities. Awareness of this challenge has led to widespread acceptance of the concept of sustainable development. The purpose of this paper is to highlight that sustainable development is achieved with the support and participation of all parties involved in tourism. As tourism is promoted as a tool for community conservation and development, the emphasis must be on local communities and their needs and capacities. If well designed, community-based tourism can become a mechanism for reducing poverty and improving the quality of life, providing economic benefits to people in local communities. The objective of this research is to highlight the importance of collaboration actions between authorities, stakeholders and the community for the development of the Petrila Theme Park. Also, based on social and technicaleconomic studies, a business model will be proposed to allow the visualization of the potential impacts generated by the development of tourism.