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Enhancing Sustainable Tourism Through Virtual Reality: The Role of Collectable Experiences in Well-Being and Meaning in Life

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  • Zhi-Hu Zhang

    (Department of International Business, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan)

  • Heng-Chiang Huang

    (Department of International Business, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan)

Abstract

This study explores the intersection of virtual reality tourism, digital innovation in digital transformation and corporate sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism strategies, and sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism. By reducing the environmental footprint associated with traditional travel, VR-based tourism presents an innovative solution to promote sustainable tourism. Through three empirical studies, we investigate how immersive 360-degree VR experiences influence psychological well-being and meaning in life as influenced by sustainable VR experiences. Our findings reveal that VR travel enhances engagement, fosters cultural appreciation, and provides an alternative to high-emission tourism, thus contributing to environmental sustainability-driven business transformations in tourism. The study offers managerial and policy implications for tourism stakeholders seeking to integrate digital transformation strategies into sustainable tourism development.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhi-Hu Zhang & Heng-Chiang Huang, 2025. "Enhancing Sustainable Tourism Through Virtual Reality: The Role of Collectable Experiences in Well-Being and Meaning in Life," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-35, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5809-:d:1686195
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