Tourism, Sustainability, and the Polycrisis: Structural Challenges for Policy and Practice

Tourism is operating within an increasingly complex global polycrisis, shaped by interconnected climate and biodiversity emergencies, economic uncertainty, geopolitical instability, inequalities, and rapidly changing visitor behaviours. This panel discussion brings together researchers from the Visitor Economy and Experience Research Group to explore what these overlapping challenges mean for the future of tourism and visitor economies.

Moving beyond traditional models of sustainable tourism, the discussion will consider how the industry can become more resilient, responsible and regenerative. Panellists will explore how destinations, businesses and communities might respond to climate change, resource pressures and social inequalities while continuing to support meaningful visitor experiences and local livelihoods. The session will critically consider the responsibilities of tourism businesses, policymakers, destinations and visitors, asking what meaningful transformation looks like in practice and how research can help shape a tourism industry that contributes positively to environmental sustainability, community wellbeing and more equitable futures.

Panellists include:

Dr Hongrui Zhu (Chair)

Dr Minoo Esfehani

Professor Brendan Paddison

Dr Tom Ratcliffe

Professor Lewis Cheung

*This event will be held in person and online via Teams. Please choose the appropriate ticket type when booking.

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