Geojournal of Tourism and Geosites | 2026
Authors: Garcia N.; Vera R.; Félix G.
DOI: 10.30892/gtg.64136-1687
Journal: Geojournal of Tourism and Geosites
Year: 2026
Publisher: Editura Universitatii din Oradea
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Cited by: 0
In Ecuador’s tourism MSMEs, persistent gaps remain in energy transition, certification, firm-level innovation, product internationalization, and market definition/targeting; building on this context, this study evaluates sustainable competitiveness in Pedernales using SDG-aligned, circular-economy indicators to inform destination-level action. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with n = 196 ventures (food services, lodging, transport, recreation, tour operations) applying 13 firm-level indicators mapped to SDGs 6/7/8/9/11/12/13; reliability (α = 0.878), sampling adequacy (KMO = 0.806), and Bartlett’s test (p < 0.001); analyses included descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and Varimax-rotated EFA. The factor solution revealed four dimensions-Environmental & Circular Practices; Perception/Training/Energy; Networks & Sustainable Mobility; Competitiveness & Local Human Capital. Key strengths include diversified supply, local hiring, and a positive environmental perception; by contrast, weaknesses persist in the adoption of renewable energy, certification and low-impact mobility. These patterns indicate partial adoption constrained by capabilities and finance at firm and destination levels. In policy terms, priority should be given to service-oriented innovation instruments, clear certification pathways, and targeted training/mentoring, alongside establishing a multi-stakeholder circular-economy lab coordinated by the Destination Management Organization (DMO). In parallel, a permanent multi-stakeholder advisory council should be established to coordinate a portfolio of demand-driven projects, search for micro-grants, and monitor indicators. Limitations include a single-destination cross-sectional design and self-reported survey data (potential desirability/recall biases); future research should consider longitudinal validation and impact evaluations via small-scale local pilot programs. The contribution consists of a replicable indicator-based diagnosis that supports decisions aligned with the SDGs in coastal destinations. © 2026 by the authors.
circular economy; innovation ecosystem; sustainable competitiveness; sustainable development goals (SDGs); tourism entrepreneurship