Abstract:

The aim of this study was to explore the importance and necessity of responsible tourism as a solution for problems arising from hedonic consumption and its negative impact on sustainability. Associated with the increasing production volumes of consumption goods in the market, hedonic consumption — a concept which involves consumers’ use of products to fulfill fantasies and satisfy emotions — is directly linked to environmental pollution, destruction of limited natural resources, and loss of national values. Tourism is one of the sectors in which environmental, natural and social impacts of hedonic consumption unfold. Relying directly on nature and social environment, tourism has been losing its assets as a result of hedonic consumption. In this context, ecotourism – a mode of responsible tourism which advocates sustainable tourism – stands out as it does not disturb local lifestyles, while rural tourism can be considered as an alternative as it involves touristic operations held in villages and farmland which also conserve social life. Another alternative is cittaslow which protects local traditions and cuisines. Moreover, environmentally-conscious tourism offers certification programs which contribute to sustainability, awarding those businesses with best practices. Halal tourism, on the other hand, rejects wastefulness and places great importance on sustainable tourism with its respect to social life and religious beliefs. 

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