Leadership and sustainability in tourism and hospitality: a systematic review and future research agenda

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to systematically review research on leadership and environmental sustainability within the tourism and hospitality sector, aiming to determine how leadership styles impact sustainability initiatives and proposing a comprehensive research framework. Design/methodology/approach: A systematic review methodology ensured thorough and unbiased analysis, adhering to PRISMA guidelines and including 41 articles from high-ranking journals. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research landscape. Findings: The review reveals that leadership styles significantly influence environmental sustainability initiatives in the tourism and hospitality sector. However, there is limited research on the impact of leaders’ demographic and psychological traits on their commitment to sustainability. Most studies focus on the effects of sustainability initiatives on business performance and employee behaviors, with insufficient attention to customer-related outcomes. A comprehensive research framework is introduced, along with 12 research questions for future study. Practical implications: This study provides practical guidance for organizations in the tourism and hospitality sector by highlighting the importance of leadership in driving sustainability initiatives. It offers actionable recommendations for embedding sustainability into leadership practices, such as aligning sustainability goals with organizational culture and incorporating environmental responsibility into leadership training. These insights can help organizations improve their environmental performance and enhance stakeholder engagement. Originality/value: This pioneering study consolidates fragmented knowledge on leadership and environmental sustainability in tourism and hospitality, offering a comprehensive research framework that identifies key themes, gaps and future research directions. It advances theoretical understanding and provides actionable insights for practitioners. Leaders and organizations can use these findings to enhance sustainability strategies, foster a culture of environmental responsibility and meet stakeholder demands more effectively. The proposed research questions aim to bridge knowledge gaps and drive innovation in sustainable tourism and hospitality practices.

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