Energy-Efficient Architecture and Sustainable Urban Tourism: Context, Challenges and Solution

Abstract

Urban tourism, as well as tourism in general, offers great economic opportunities, while at the same time, it increases the destination’s vulnerability to overcrowding and uncontrolled growth. Tourism can and should support sustainable urban devel - opment. Sustainable urban tourism and energy efficient architecture are interdepen -dent. Increased stakeholder participation, regional cooperation, sustainable urban mobility, supporting environmental and social innovation, preventing negative social issues, resource efficiency and environmentally acceptable waste management, fol - lowed by sustainable hospitality industry architecture, are key drivers for sustain able urban tourism success. Energy-efficient architecture in sustainable urban tourism requires application of energy-efficient concepts, elements and systems. Although considerable effort has been put into raising awareness about the necessity of sustain - able urban tourism development, numerous examples of “greenwashing” effect have been detected. sanctuaries and sacred objects, etc.); III. happenings (permanent attractions, business, sports, religious, political gatherings and events, local festivals; events of special local and regional significance, etc.). non-renewable energy environmentally sound waste management; protection and preservation of natural habitats; sustainable building and operational practices; responsi ble resource response with zero-waste strategies; effective damage and accident control at the construction site; self-sustainability with the utmost utilisation of renewable energy sources and passive solar systems; sustainability of all phases of the construction process; the use of environment-friendly materials; indoor air quality; promoting the concepts of sustainabil ity among hotel guests, employees, suppliers and business partners with implementation of positive operational procedures; responsible attitude towards cultural heritage and biodiver -sity; partnerships with non-governmental organisations and the local community; socially responsible behaviour with the inclusion of community members.