Mapping green tourism research (2015–2025): a PRISMA-TCCM systematic review and future research agenda

The recognition of green tourism as a pillar of sustainable development is predicated on the triple requirements of economic growth, social fairness, and ecosystem conservation within destination management. This research focused on a systematic review of the period from 2015 to 2025 via integrating the PRISMA 2020 process and the TCCM framework (Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Methodology). The data extracted from Scopus and Web of Science underwent two phases of screening (title/abstract and full-text) and independent coding by two separate coders to guarantee consistency and reproducibility. The findings reveal that micro-level studies have applied behavioural and technological models, whose variable constructs include antecedents and psychological experiential mediators. Conversely, macro-level research leans towards environmental econometrics and eco-efficiency indices. The main contribution is the development of vertical integration logic to connect the micro-level (tourists’ behaviour and experience), meso-level (operations and green supply chain), and macro-level (institutions, policies, and eco-efficiency indicators) within a single PRISMA-TCCM framework. This approach systematically facilitates the explanation of the intention–behavior gap, while also enlightening the breakdown mechanism of policy transmission, as macro-level interventions are not ‘linked’ to practical experience and green trust at the micro-level. The research has developed a future model for the operationalisation of multi-method designs and specific boundary conditions, which aims to design an actual green experience and control destination sustainability.