The role of green education in promoting sustainable tourism in coastal areas

Abstract

Coastal areas are among the most attractive destinations for tourism due to their diverse natural and environmental resources. However, they also face numerous challenges stemming from human activities, urban expansion, and tourism development, which can impact the sustainability of their natural resources and the quality of their environment. With the growing focus on sustainability issues, green education has emerged as a crucial approach to raising environmental awareness and fostering positive environmental behaviors, This research aims to highlight the role of green education in promoting sustainable tourism in coastal areas by demonstrating the importance of environmental awareness in preserving the natural resources upon which tourism activities depend. It also seeks to show how educational institutions can contribute to spreading a culture of sustainability and promoting responsible practices towards the coastal environment. The research adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, along with an applied study of the area between Sousse and El-Athroun, through the analysis of a vegetation map. This map is considered a crucial environmental indicator reflecting the reality of the coastal environment and the importance of its preservation. The study demonstrated that reducing negative practices impacting the coastal environment can be achieved by promoting environmental awareness through green education. Furthermore, the study emphasizes that achieving sustainable tourism is not limited to planning and management alone, but also requires building environmental awareness within the local community. This makes green education a fundamental pillar for supporting the sustainability of coastal areas and preserving their tourism potential.