Application of Sustainable Tourism Development to Assess Community-based Tourism Performance

Abstract

     The foundation of sustainable tourism development is the concept that the economy, socio-culture, and environment are related, and that the strong development of communities relies on the efficient management of these three pillars whenever there is any decision to be made. The objective of this research was to study the application of sustainable tourism development (STD) to assess community-based tourism performance (CBTP) by concentrating on the indicators for the evaluation of CBTP. To reach such a goal, this research begins with a literature review concerning CBT goals and objectives and also STD through an outline of indicators. The next step is a range of comprehensive interviews with the local leaders, public officers, CBT team, and academic scholars of the Koh Kred Kred community, Pak-Kred district, Nonthaburi province, Thailand. The findings of this study demonstrated that the goals and objectives of CBT emphasize the development of community in several aspects, including the generation of revenue and employment, the encouragement of participation, and an increase of awareness regarding the preservation of culture and environment which is part of the sustainable development way. Indicators of CBTP in terms of STD are the guides not only to the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental issues, but also to subjects which concern ecology. To conclude, both CBTP and STD aim to better the quality of life of inhabitants by creating a sustainable economy, valuing the socio-cultural genuineness of local communities, and conserving the environment.