ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE IN TOURISM & HOSPITALITY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

The surging focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions has prompted increasing scholarly attention in the tourism and hospitality sectors. However, the fragmented nature of existing research presents challenges in understanding the holistic integration of ESG principles. This research aims to systematically review the present literature on ESG in tourism and hospitality, addressing critical gaps through a structured strategy. Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, a comprehensive search was conducted utilizing two prominent databases: Scopus as well as Web of Science (WoS). The screening process identified 26 primary studies that met the inclusion criteria. Through thematic analysis, the findings were classified into three major themes: (1) ESG Practices, Disclosure, and Reporting, (2) ESG Impact on Financial and Firm Performance, and (3) Consumer Perceptions, Governance, and Sustainable Tourism Development. The review reveals that while ESG disclosure practices are increasingly formalized, significant discrepancies exist in reporting standards across regions and organizational types. Furthermore, evidence suggests a generally positive association between ESG performance and financial outcomes, although contextual factors such as national economic development play a moderating role. From the consumer and community perspective, the perception and engagement with ESG initiatives are found to be critical for promoting sustainable tourism development. This systematic review consolidates current knowledge, highlights methodological and conceptual gaps, and proposes directions for future research aimed at enhancing the theoretical as well as practical understanding of ESG integration in tourism and hospitality industries.