Environment, Tourism, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Sustainable Cities

Objective: The objective of this study is to examine the interrelationship between environmental sustainability and urban tourism within the context of sustainable cities, with a particular focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study aims to conceptualize how tourism development can be aligned with SDG-oriented environmental protection and urban resilience objectives. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in sustainability theory, sustainable urban development, and responsible tourism frameworks, and is explicitly linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key theoretical perspectives such as the Triple Bottom Line, sustainable city models, environmental carrying capacity, and SDG-related policy frameworks provide the conceptual foundation for analyzing tourism–environment interactions in urban contexts. Method: The study adopts a qualitative and conceptual research design based on an integrative literature review. Academic articles, policy documents, and international sustainability reports—particularly those associated with the SDGs, sustainable urban development, urban tourism, and environmental management—were systematically reviewed and synthesized to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework. Results and Discussion: The analysis reveals that tourism strategies aligned with the SDGs and environmental sustainability principles significantly contribute to sustainable urban development by enhancing resource efficiency, environmental awareness, social well-being, and urban resilience. The discussion emphasizes the critical role of governance, stakeholder collaboration, and long-term SDG-oriented planning in balancing tourism growth with environmental limitations. Research Implications: The findings offer theoretical insights for scholars and practical guidance for urban planners, policymakers, and tourism managers who seek to integrate SDG-based sustainability principles into tourism planning and urban development strategies. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by explicitly linking environmental sustainability, urban tourism, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the sustainable city discourse, offering a holistic conceptual framework that supports SDG-oriented sustainable urban tourism development.