Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.46672/zsl.10.11.2
MEASURING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA THROUGH THE INVOLVEMENT OF TOURIST BOARDS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Sandra Šokčević
orcid.org/0000-0001-6913-9201
; Libertas International University
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of how the theory of sustainable tourism shapes sustainable tourism practice, using the Republic of Croatia as a case study. In this context, the roles of local and regional tourist boards are emphasized as key drivers in managing the sustainable tourism development within their environments. Namely, despite numerous attempts
by the UNWTO, the European Commission, and national legislation, the quantification of sustainability indicators has remained elusive, with qualitative indicators being predominantly implemented. Beyond exploring and adopting general knowledge on sustainability, resilience, and tourism development at the micro, macro, and global levels, this paper aims to highlight the challenges of measuring the degree of sustainability achieved by specific destinations in accordance with national sustainable development strategies as well as European and global sustainability goals. The study employs a benchmarking analysis of selected tourist boards that base their development on sustainable tourism. Secondary sources
of information, including strategic documents from the tourism sector such as Master Plans and official websites of local tourist boards were utilized to analyze sustainability indicators. The general conclusion of the research is that tourist boards contribute to the long-term preservation of the attractiveness of Croatian destinations, improve the quality of life for the local population, and ensure multifaceted benefits for all stakeholders involved in the tourism sector.
Keywords
sustainable tourism, Republic of Croatia, indicators, tourist boards
Hrčak ID:
343912
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2025.
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