Adaptive Nature‐Based Tourism Framework: A Multi‐Theoretical Response to Climate and Environmental Change

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Authors: Sajad Ferdowsi, Saeideh Esmaili
Cited by: 1
References: 87

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study develops a conceptual framework for Adaptive Nature‐Based Tourism to address the growing challenges posed by climate and environmental change in nature‐dependent tourism systems. Through a systematic meta‐synthesis of 56 peer‐reviewed articles, we identified 48 ecosystem resilience actions and organized them into eight social connectivity mechanisms, which were further grouped under four institutional support dimensions: Ecological Restoration Dynamics ; Resilient Tourism Systems ; Environmental Learning and Community ; and Adaptive Governance Mechanisms . The resulting three‐level framework provides a structured foundation for understanding how nature‐based tourism can operationalize adaptation across ecological, social, and institutional scales. Drawing on the integration of resilience theory, social capital theory, and institutional theory, the framework clarifies the role of each level: Ecosystem resilience specifies what adaptive actions sustain tourism–ecosystem interactions, social connectivity explains how these actions are mobilized and coordinated through networks and collaboration, and institutional support defines why adaptation is legitimized, governed, and sustained over time. This study contributes a multidimensional and integrative framework that supports researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in designing and managing nature‐based tourism systems that are resilient, inclusive, and responsive to ongoing climate and environmental change.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Diverse Aspects of Tourism Research Sustainability and Climate Change Governance Migration Aging and Tourism Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Sustainable Development
Publisher
Wiley
Publication date
13 June 2026
Language
EN