Framework for understanding sustainability in the context of tourism operators

Tour operators are an important component of the tourism system. They link tourists and destinations, and as a result have influence on sustainability within destinations. Tour operators are also part of a larger system that include direct involvement in all aspects of a tourist experience, such as accommodations, attractions, food services, and transportation. The scale of tourism operators span from very localized to international and deliver a diverse array of services. However, increasingly tour operators face challenges in controlling aspects of the tourism product. Because tour operators influence many aspects of a destination and how visitors might perceive the destination, the can maximize aspects of sustainability including: social and economic benefits; benefits to cultural heritage; benefits to the environment; and enable partnerships. A framework for sustainable tourism operators captures the variability and potential role and influence tour operations have within the industry overall.