Sustainable Tourism as a Component of Strategic Planning and Regional Policy in the Most Attractive Regions of Greater Poland Voivodeship

Abstract

The article explores the extent to which principles of sustainable tourism are incorporated into the development strategies of the most tourist-attractive areas in the Greater Poland (Wielkopolska) region of Poland. The research covers 11 counties and 62 municipalities and is based on the analysis of strategic documents and expert interviews. Although tourism is generally acknowledged as an important sector in most local strategies, references to sustainability are rare and often vague. The study reveals that recommendations provided by the Tourism Sustainability Group (TSG) have not been fully implemented. There is a significant need for dedicated, sustainability-focused tourism strategies, better monitoring systems, and more active participation of local communities in tourism planning processes. While some municipalities demonstrate awareness of the potential for integrating tourism with other sectors such as agriculture or local craftsmanship, this remains limited. Similarly, although most of the strategic documents were developed using participatory methods and expert consultation, this involvement is rarely specific to tourism. Long-term planning and environmental limits, such as carrying capacity, are also insufficiently addressed. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the necessity for more comprehensive, practical, and context-specific planning tools that genuinely align with the principles of sustainable tourism in regional and local governance.