Tourism Carrying Capacity Revisited: Innovative Tools for Visitor Management in High-Pressure Destinations

Abstract

Abstract

Tourism carrying capacity (TCC) has long been a central concept in sustainable destination management, offering a systematic approach to determining the limits of acceptable visitor use. However, rapid tourism growth, climate change, overtourism, and digital disruption have placed unprecedented pressure on destinations, highlighting the need to revisit traditional carrying capacity frameworks. This review synthesises developments in TCC theory, evaluates contemporary challenges, and examines emerging tools—including geospatial technologies, real-time monitoring, AI-driven analytics, and participatory management models—that are reshaping visitor management in high-pressure destinations. The paper argues for a shift from static carrying capacity calculations toward dynamic, adaptive, and data-informed management systems.