Good environmental practices for Sustainable Tourism on the beaches of San Jacinto-Charapotó

Abstract

Introduction: This study analyzes the use of good environmental practices for the development of sustainable tourism in the community of San Jacinto, Charapotó parish, in light of the negative impacts on the natural environment resulting mainly from inadequate solid waste management and the limited application of public environmental policies. The research is based on the Sustainable Development Goals, the Code of Ethics for Tourism, the ISO 14001 standards, and Ecuador's Environmental Management Law as references for promoting a responsible attitude between tourism and the environment. Materials and Methods: A mixed approach was used, with a descriptive design, applying surveys to travelers, interviews with actors in the tourism sector, and observation sheets. The information was analyzed using statistical and descriptive methods to identify the level of application of good environmental practices in local tourism. Results: The results show a negative environmental impact associated with the accumulation of solid waste and the poor implementation of sustainable environmental practices by tourism service providers and local authorities. Discussion: The findings confirm that the lack of environmental planning and institutional commitment has a direct impact on the sustainability of tourism in San Jacinto, coinciding with previous studies that highlight the need to integrate environmental principles into tourism management. The adoption of international guidelines, such as the SDGs, the Code of Ethics for Tourism, and ISO 14001 standards, is presented as a viable alternative to strengthen the relationship between tourism and environmental conservation. Conclusions It is concluded that good environmental practices directly influence sustainable tourism in San Jacinto, and that it is necessary to strengthen environmental management, institutional participation, and awareness among tourism stakeholders to reduce negative impacts on the environment.