• Abstract

    Tourism in Natural Areas and Sustainable Development: Perspectives of Entrepreneurs from Prudentópolis/PR

    DOI 10.14210/tva.v27.20785
    Published date: 24/07/2025

    Objective – Prudentópolis is a tourist destination based on its natural and cultural attractions. This research identifies the dynamics of the creation and closure of businesses in the local tourism sector. It investigates, in light of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 11, the particularities noted by entrepreneurs regarding the factors that influence sustainable economic growth.

    Design/methodology/approach – Quantitative data on tourism companies based in Prudentópolis was obtained from the commercial website “empresaqui.com.br”, which supported a qualitative approach, conducted through semi-structured interviews with ten entrepreneurs from the tourism segment that promotes visits to areas of natural beauty. Their perceptions were organized and interpreted using the technique of Content Analysis.

    Results – The research confirms the viability and expansion of tourism in areas of natural beauty in Prudentópolis, with significant impacts on business start-ups and job creation. Many entrepreneurs have invested in the sector, changing or diversifying their lines of business. However, it was found that knowledge of the SDGs was limited, and sustainable practices were isolated and disjointed. Various situations were also identified that can be understood as both obstacles and opportunities for strengthening the sector and achieving sustainable economic growth.

    Practical implications – There were some difficulties when attempting to contact and communicate with entrepreneurs, some lack interest in taking part in the research, and limited geographical and sectoral boundaries.

    Originality/value – The research links the dynamics of the tourism sector to the global goals of sustainable economic growth, highlights structural barriers, and emphasizes the need for planning and articulated public policies to consolidate sustainable practices in the sector.

Turismo: Visão e Ação

Turismo: Visão e Ação, linked to the Graduate Program in Tourism and Hospitality - Master's and Ph.D., is a scientific journal published in a continuous flow system, with an interdisciplinary and international scope. According to Qualis/CAPES criteria (2017-2020), it is classified as 'A3' in the fields of Administration, Accounting Sciences, and Tourism. Registered with ISSN number 1983-7151, Tourismo: Visão e Ação began its activities in 1998 with printed publications in English and Portuguese. In 2008, it transitioned to an online publication, expanding its reach to a broader audience. It maintains a policy of being an open-access journal without submission or access fees. The abbreviated title for the journal is Tur., Visão e Ação, commonly used in bibliographies, footnotes, references, and bibliographic captions.

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