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Enhancing Public Health and SDG 3 Through Sustainable Agriculture and Tourism

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  • Elena Petelos

    (Health Services Research, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6211 Maastricht, The Netherlands
    Clinic of Social and Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece)

  • Danai Antonaki

    (Department of Business Administration and Tourism, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Iraklio, Greece)

  • Erasmia Angelaki

    (Department of Business Administration and Tourism, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Iraklio, Greece)

  • Christos Lemonakis

    (Department of Management Science and Technology, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 72100 Agios Nikolaos, Greece)

  • Garefalakis Alexandros

    (Department of Business Administration and Tourism, Hellenic Mediterranean University, 71410 Iraklio, Greece)

Abstract

This study explores how private sector initiatives within the tourism industry can contribute to public health outcomes and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) through sustainable agricultural practices. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review with an in-depth case study, the research examines how integrated strategies—such as pesticide-free farming, biodiversity enhancement, and edible landscape design—can reduce environmental health risks, improve nutritional quality, and promote local resilience. A series of sustainability interventions are analyzed using key performance indicators (KPIs) related to pesticide use, organic production, pollinator conservation, and community engagement. The findings reveal that business-led sustainability models can support systemic change when grounded in clear metrics and cross-sector collaboration. Although the absence of pre-2019 baseline data and direct health outcome measurements limit causal inference, the study provides a valuable blueprint for aligning private enterprise practices with global health and sustainability objectives. The implications are relevant for policymakers, hospitality operators, and public health stakeholders aiming to foster synergies between tourism, agriculture, and well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Elena Petelos & Danai Antonaki & Erasmia Angelaki & Christos Lemonakis & Garefalakis Alexandros, 2025. "Enhancing Public Health and SDG 3 Through Sustainable Agriculture and Tourism," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-17, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:14:p:6253-:d:1697150
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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