Sustainability and ecotourism principles adoption by leading ecolodges: learning from best practices

This study identified best practices in the sustainable management of leading ecolodges around the world based on a qualitative content analysis of sustainability communications. Sixty-five top global ecolodges were identified and analyzed according to (1) independent third party ecolodge designations, and (2) a conceptual framework of ecolodges based on a rigorous definition of ecotourism, emphasizing a nature-based focus, education, sustainability (conservation and community involvement/benefits), and moral imperative dimensions. Key themes within these dimensions included biodiversity conservation, preserving socio-cultural heritage, improving social wellbeing, contributing to the local economy, learning opportunities for guests, influencing local attitudes, creating opportunities for visitors to get involved, sharing profits with local people, social justice, and seeking third-party recognition. This study contributes to the expanding base of literature on ecolodges by investigating best practices within each core dimension of ecotourism and evaluating these through corporate social responsibility and stakeholder theory perspectives.

Automated summary

This study investigates best practices in the sustainable management of top ecolodges globally by analyzing 65 leading ecolodges according to independent third party designations and a conceptual framework of ecotourism. Key themes include biodiversity conservation, social wellbeing, contributing to the local economy, and seeking third-party recognition, contributing to the literature on ecolodges through corporate social responsibility and stakeholder theory perspectives.