Sustainable Tourism in Crisis? Environmental Challenges and Economic Potentials in Rembang's Coastal Area

Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia.

^* Corresponding author: yogaaldi@live.undip.ac.id

Abstract

The coastal area of Rembang Regency has significant economic potential to be optimized as a tourism destination. Massive water pollution, poor waste management, and abrasion disasters result in a complex challenge that has yet to be solved. This research analyzes and explores sustainable tourism practices in the coastal area of Rembang Regency by looking at the economic, social, and environmental sides. Research data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, FGD, and documentation. Data analysis was performed using the Cresswell method and Vos Viewer software. The results showed that the sustainability of coastal tourism in Rembang faces many challenges of environmental degradation that can jeopardize its sustainability. On the other hand, economic benefits are starting to be felt by local communities through the diversification of jobs created. Environmental impacts that are not adequately addressed will undoubtedly disrupt the sustainability of community livelihoods in the tourism sector. Collaborative efforts with different stakeholders are needed to solve the environmental problems.