AN INTEGRATED METHODOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK FOR ADVANCING GREEN TOURISM MODELS IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY ERA

Abstract

This paper develops a comprehensive methodological framework to advance green tourism modeling by
integrating sustainability indicators with sophisticated analytical techniques. In response to persistent methodological
inconsistencies in the literature, the study proposes a hybrid approach that combines composite index construction,
multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), and system dynamics analysis to better capture the complex interactions among
environmental, economic, and social dimensions. A Green Tourism Index (GTI) is constructed using entropy-based
weighting to enhance objectivity and cross-regional comparability. The framework further incorporates innovation-oriented
determinants, including digital transformation, governance effectiveness, and green human resource management, to
strengthen model adaptability. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study integrates systematic literature synthesis
with econometric modeling, including panel data estimation and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results suggest
that the proposed framework improves both analytical precision and predictive performance, offering a robust foundation
for evidence-based tourism policy and sustainable destination management.