The article “Transforming societies and transforming tourism: Sustainable tourism in times of change” by Higham and Miller (2018) explores the concept of sustainable tourism and its role in the face of societal and environmental changes. Published in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism, the article aims to shed light on the evolving nature of tourism and the need for sustainability in the industry. The authors argue that sustainable tourism is no longer just a niche market but has become a mainstream imperative. They discuss how societal changes, such as the growing awareness of environmental issues and the increasing demand for authentic and responsible travel experiences, have influenced the transformation of the tourism sector. They emphasize that sustainable tourism should not be seen as a standalone activity but as an integral part of broader societal transitions toward more sustainable lifestyles and economies. The article highlights the importance of understanding the interconnectedness between tourism and wider social and environmental systems. It explores the impacts of tourism on various dimensions, including climate change, biodiversity loss, cultural heritage, and community well-being. The authors emphasize the need for tourism to address these challenges and contribute positively to sustainable development. Higham and Miller also discuss the role of governance and policy frameworks in promoting sustainable tourism. They examine the initiatives and strategies undertaken by governments, organizations, and local communities to integrate sustainability principles into tourism practices. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration and stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable tourism forward. Furthermore, the authors address the need for transformative change in tourism. They argue that incremental improvements alone are insufficient to address the complex challenges facing the industry. Instead, they advocate for more radical and innovative approaches that challenge the status quo and reshape tourism systems. They explore concepts such as degrowth, resilience, and transformative learning as potential pathways for sustainable tourism development. In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving nature of tourism and the imperative for sustainability in the industry. It emphasizes the interconnectedness between tourism and broader societal and environmental changes, highlighting the need for transformative approaches to address sustainability challenges. The insights provided by Higham and Miller contribute to the ongoing discourse on sustainable tourism and provide valuable guidance for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field.
