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An Innovative Lens on Green Tourism: A Narrative Review of Cognitive Dissonance in Sustainable Tourism Development

Author

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  • Kevin Fuchs

    (Prince of Songkla University, Phuket, Thailand)

Abstract

Despite growing concern over sustainability, value–behaviour inconsistencies remain widespread in tourism, highlighting a need for conceptual clarity. Therefore, an inductive thematic synthesis was utilized to analyse how cognitive dissonance is conceptualized, triggered, and resolved across various green tourism contexts. Three thematic main strands emerged: (1) value–behaviour inconsistency, (2) green identity and group influence, and (3) situational constraints and greenwashing. Tourists often maintain a green self-image despite contradictory behaviour, influenced by group norms, destination cues, and infrastructural limitations. The findings highlight that destination managers and marketers must reduce behavioural friction and ensure that sustainability claims are authentic and actionable. Theoretically, the review contributes a conceptual map of cognitive dissonance in green tourism, highlighting how dissonance emerges and is managed.

Suggested Citation

  • Kevin Fuchs, 2025. "An Innovative Lens on Green Tourism: A Narrative Review of Cognitive Dissonance in Sustainable Tourism Development," Academica Turistica - Tourism and Innovation Journal, University of Primorska Press, vol. 18(2), pages 183-196.
    • Handle: RePEc:prp:jattij:v:18:y:2025:i:2:p:183-196
    DOI: 10.26493/2335-4194.18.183-196
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