The topic seeks to establish the current adoption of socially just, circular and regenerative practices within tourism and events. Whilst new models of collaborative tourism consumption are emerging, there is growing backlash against the extractive and exploitative nature typified by overtourism and platform capitalism. Existing destination governance and planning systems are insufficient or inadequate in addressing the significant and transformative challenges with which tourism actors are confronted in the post-Covid 19 environment. With increasing concern around the impacts of climate change and changing consumer behaviours, it is clear that the future success of tourism and events is dependent upon responsible development (VisitScotland, 2023). Adopting social just, net zero and regenerative models should make tourism more resilient and sustainable in principle, but there remains limited understanding and application of these concepts in practice. Moreover, the transition from predominantly linear to increasingly circular business models that promote value creation through the restoration, regeneration and reuse of resources necessitates the coordination of many actors in the policy environment and at various levels of public administration.
The project will consider one or more of the following questions:
1) How is the regenerative tourism paradigm currently conceptualised?
2) Which new business models and innovation strategies are required for the adoption of socially just, circular and regenerative tourism practices?
3) How do we evaluate, and measure just transition to net zero, circular and regenerative practices in tourism and events?
4) How can the public sector create a supportive environment and encourage the adoption of socially just and responsible tourism practices?
5) Do circular and regenerative practices create higher value, more memorable and more meaningful tourism and event experiences?
The successful applicant will benefit from the expertise of the supervisory team based in the Tourism Research Centre in the Business School.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in a related area or interdisciplinary field such as tourism, events, planning, governance, business and management studies, economics, human geography or environmental science with a good fundamental knowledge of tourism, events and/or planning sustainability issues.
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University's police are available online Application process (napier.ac.uk).
Essential attributes:
- Experience of fundamental independent academic research projects at undergraduate and / or postgraduate level
- Competent in applying a range of business related theories in research
- Knowledge of tourism and/or events and sustainability concepts
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
- Good time management
Desirable attributes:
- Some competence in research methods gained through undertaking an undergraduate or postgraduate dissertation.
- Training in quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis software.
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