Contributions of rural tourism to achieving the united nations sustainable development goals

Abstract

Sustainable tourism is an approach that aims to protect natural resources, support local cultures, and ensure the fair distribution of economic benefits (UNWTO, 2020). This approach seeks to ensure the long-term balanced development of tourism, both environmentally and socio-culturally. Rural areas hold great potential for sustainable tourism. These regions host unique resources such as historical structures, traditional housing types, and rich cultural heritage. Particularly, rural tourism can contribute to the economic empowerment of local communities, the preservation of cultural values, and the sustainable use of the natural environment. However, effective utilization of this potential requires proper planning, management, and local participation. This study aims to examine how historical structures, traditional housing types, and cultural features in rural areas can be evaluated within the scope of sustainable tourism. Additional, the challenges and solutions encountered in the process of preserving and integrating these resources into tourism will be discussed. Since sustainable tourism targets not only environmental but also social and economic sustainability, this study will also delve into the relationship between rural development and tourism.