Tourism and new technologies: Challenges for sustainable development

This research aims to examine the transformative impact of emerging technologies—specifically artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics—on the tourism industry, highlighting their significant role in shaping the future of tourism while presenting both opportunities and challenges for sustainable development. Tourism, as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic sectors, is increasingly intertwined with digital innovation, which reshapes how tourism products are designed, promoted, and managed. The integration of new technologies transforms visitor experiences, destination management, and operational efficiency, thereby influencing the sector’s environmental, social, and economic dimensions. The primary objective of this study is to analyze how AI and big data enable improved demand forecasting and personalized travel experiences and to assess their implications for sustainable tourism. This inquiry is guided by two key research questions: First, can new technologies substantially contribute to sustainable tourism development? Second, what potential risks or barriers might hinder the achievement of sustainability goals amid rapid technological advancement?
To explore these questions, the study adopts a conceptual overview methodology. This involves synthesizing relevant academic literature, industry reports, and policy frameworks addressing the integration of technology in tourism. Unlike empirical studies based on quantitative data collection, this conceptual framework offers a theoretical and strategic perspective meant to provide stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of how innovation can promote tourism that is environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable. Such an approach allows for broad consideration of systemic challenges and opportunities triggered by digital transformation across varied tourism contexts and scales.
Findings reveal that AI and big data analytics provide powerful tools to advance sustainable tourism. By enabling more precise forecasting of tourist demand, these technologies help destination managers mitigate the adverse effects of overcrowding through better distribution of visitor flows in time and space. This optimization reduces environmental degradation of fragile ecosystems and cultural sites. Nonetheless, technology integration also poses challenges that require coordinated responses. To address these issues, the study advocates for multi-stakeholder governance models that involve governments, private sectors, local communities, and civil society. Collaboration is essential to align technological innovation with sustainable tourism objectives effectively. Additionally, implementing smart marketing strategies powered by AI and big data can promote responsible tourism behavior, optimize resource use, and enhance destination competitiveness while safeguarding local interests.
Theoretically, this paper contributes to the sustainable tourism discourse by positioning new technologies as integral components of systemic sustainability rather than mere drivers of economic growth. Practically, it yields actionable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and technology developers seeking to implement responsible digital transformation within tourism. In conclusion, emerging technologies present substantial potential for supporting sustainable tourism development. However, realizing this potential hinges on balanced approaches that manage social, environmental, and governance concerns proactively. Future research should prioritize examining the long-term impacts of technology adoption and developing adaptive governance mechanisms capable of responding to rapid technological evolution, ultimately fostering a resilient, responsible, and innovative tourism sector.