Constraints and benefits of sustainable development: a case study based on the perceptions of small-hotel entrepreneurs in Greece

Abstract

This study examined the perceptions of small- and middle-size hotel entrepreneurs of the benefits and constraints of sustainability and business development. Results indicated that the hotel owners' interest in sustainable tourism development is related to how it can enable them to achieve environmental and social benefits for their enterprises. The basic reasons which inhibit them from adopting sustainable development practices are the high cost of investment and the uncertain payment of this cost. The major academic contribution of this study is the application of a model that integrates microperspectives to explore constraints and benefits related to sustainable development in the context of the hotel industry in Greece.