CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES OF AI IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

First author: CRISTIAN Mihai Gabriel
Affiliation: Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania

Second author: TILEAGĂ Cosmin
Affiliation: Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania

Abstract:

The tourism industry is progressively integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance sustainability and optimize operations. By leveraging big data, AI can provide real-time information, advanced analytics, and decision-making capabilities, supporting tourism stakeholders in implementing sustainable practices. However, the application of AI in this context faces significant challenges, such as issues of governance, ethics, data privacy, and regulatory compliance. In particular, AI’s ability to predict tourism demand and manage energy and waste systems in tourist destinations makes it a valuable tool for sustainable tourism initiatives. Nevertheless, concerns about job displacement and the depersonalization of tourism experiences highlight the need for a balanced approach to AI integration. The future of sustainable tourism will depend on addressing these challenges while fostering innovative AI applications that promote environmental conservation, economic development, and social equity.

Keywords: sustainability, tourism, AI