Augmented Reality Applications for Enhancing Environmental Awareness in Smart Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review
##plugins.themes.bootstrap3.article.main##
Abstract
Augmented Reality (AR) has been increasingly adopted in smart tourism to enhance visitor experiences and support sustainability-oriented learning. However, empirical evidence regarding how AR applications contribute to environmental awareness and sustainable tourism practices remains fragmented and insufficiently synthesized. This study conducts a systematic literature review to examine the role of AR in enhancing environmental awareness within smart tourism contexts and its potential contribution to sustainability-oriented tourism development. The review addresses three research questions concerning the implementation of AR applications for environmental learning, the comparative effectiveness of AR and non-AR approaches, and the key challenges and research opportunities associated with AR in sustainability-oriented tourism. The review follows the PICOC framework (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Context) and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A structured search of the Scopus database covering publications from 2022 to 2025 resulted in 32 empirical journal articles included in the final analysis. The findings indicate that AR applications, such as mobile AR systems, location-based interpretation, immersive environmental visualization, and gamified learning tools, are widely implemented in tourism environments including museums, heritage sites, geotourism destinations, natural parks, and wildlife attractions. Overall, AR tends to enhance environmental understanding, emotional engagement, and pro-environmental intentions more effectively than conventional interpretation media. These outcomes contribute to strengthening visitor awareness of environmental conservation and responsible tourism behavior. This review synthesizes fragmented empirical evidence and highlights key methodological and technological gaps while outlining future research directions for advancing AR-based environmental learning and sustainability practices within smart tourism ecosystems.
##plugins.themes.bootstrap3.article.details##
How to Cite
Siregar, V. M. M., Manalu, A. S., & Saragih, R. S. (2026). Augmented Reality Applications for Enhancing Environmental Awareness in Smart Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review. International Journal of Basic and Applied Science, 14(4), 175–191. https://doi.org/10.35335/ijobas.v14i4.841
References
[1] K. Zheng and L. Zhang, “Visual evaluation of tourism ecological and environmental protection green management in the context of sustainable development,” Int. J. Comput. Appl. Technol., vol. 77, no. 1–2, pp. 23–32, 2025, doi: 10.1504/IJCAT.2025.149848.
[2] A. A. Alola, K. K. Eluwole, T. T. Lasisi, and U. V. Alola, “Perspectives of globalization and tourism as drivers of ecological footprint in top 10 destination economies,” Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res., vol. 28, no. 24, pp. 31607–31617, Jun. 2021, doi: 10.1007/s11356-021-12871-4.
[3] Q. Du, Q. Guan, Y. Sun, and Q. Wang, “Assessment of Ecotourism Environmental Carrying Capacity in the Qilian Mountains, Northwest China,” Sustainability, vol. 16, no. 5, p. 1873, Feb. 2024, doi: 10.3390/su16051873.
[4] Danish and Z. Wang, “Dynamic relationship between tourism, economic growth, and environmental quality,” J. Sustain. Tour., vol. 26, no. 11, pp. 1928–1943, Nov. 2018, doi: 10.1080/09669582.2018.1526293.
[5] B. D. Simo-Kengne, “Tourism growth and environmental sustainability: trade-off or convergence?,” Environ. Dev. Sustain., vol. 24, no. 6, pp. 8115–8144, Jun. 2022, doi: 10.1007/s10668-021-01775-5.
[6] Y. Hamaguchi, “Environmental and Tourism Policies for the Decarbonization of the Tourism Sector,” in Sustainable Tourism: Frameworks, Practices, and Innovative Solutions, 2024, pp. 231–256. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-43528-7_11.
[7] C. M. Hall, “Changing paradigms and global change: From sustainable to steady-state tourism,” Tour. Recreat. Res., vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 131–143, 2010, doi: 10.1080/02508281.2010.11081629.
[8] F. Higgins-Desbiolles, “Sustainable tourism: Sustaining tourism or something more?,” Tour. Manag. Perspect., vol. 25, pp. 157–160, 2018, doi: 10.1016/j.tmp.2017.11.017.
[9] R. Wael, H. Talaat, and H. Soubra, “Smart Tourism in Smart Cities: Current Trends and Future Challenges in Sustainability and Digitization,” 2023 2nd International Conference on Smart Cities 4.0, Smart Cities 4.0 2023. pp. 95–98, 2023. doi: 10.1109/SmartCities4.056956.2023.10526099.
[10] M. Jawad and M. Naz, “Smart Tourism: Foundations, Developments and Management in Asia,” Technology Application in Tourism in Asia: Innovations, Theories and Practices. 2022. doi: 10.1007/978-981-16-5461-9_25.
[11] S. Shafiee, A. R. Ghatari, A. Hasanzadeh, and S. Jahanyan, “Developing a model for smart tourism destinations: an interpretive structural modelling approach,” Information Technology and Tourism, vol. 24, no. 4. pp. 511–546, 2022. doi: 10.1007/s40558-022-00236-7.
[12] E. E. Cranmer, M. C. tom Dieck, and T. Jung, “The role of augmented reality for sustainable development: Evidence from cultural heritage tourism,” Tourism Management Perspectives, vol. 49. 2023. doi: 10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101196.
[13] I. U. Rakhmanovich, M. Fallah, N. Karimov, and D. Biswas, “Smart Tourism using Artificial Intelligence empowered Augmented Reality for Personalization In Travel Experiences,” 2025 International Conference on Computational Innovations and Engineering Sustainability, ICCIES 2025. 2025. doi: 10.1109/ICCIES63851.2025.11032743.
[14] N. A. N. Ahmad, A. I. H. Suhaimi, and A. M. Lokman, “Conceptual Model of Augmented Reality Mobile Application Design (ARMAD) to Enhance user Experience: An Expert Review,” Int. J. Adv. Comput. Sci. Appl., vol. 13, no. 10, pp. 574–582, 2022, doi: 10.14569/IJACSA.2022.0131067.
[15] M. C. tom Dieck and T. Jung, “A theoretical model of mobile augmented reality acceptance in urban heritage tourism,” Curr. Issues Tour., vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 154–174, 2018, doi: 10.1080/13683500.2015.1070801.
[16] M. L. Olar, I. Samuil, M. Leba, and A. Ionica, “Augmented reality in postindustrial tourism,” presented at the IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 2019. doi: 10.1088/1757-899X/572/1/012093.
[17] A. Valencia-Arias, C. Ocampo-Osorio, J. Quiroz-Fabra, L. F. Garcés-Giraldo, and J. Valencia, “Research trends in augmented reality in tourism: A bibliometric analysis; [Tendencias investigativas en la aplicación de realidad aumentada en el sector turístico: Un análisis bibliométrico],” RISTI - Revista Iberica de Sistemas e Tecnologias de Informacao, vol. 2020, no. E36. pp. 229–242, 2020.
[18] M. Saeteros, M. Saavedra, C. Molina, and G. Caiza, “Augmented Reality Applied to the Tourism in Churches of the Historic Center of Quito,” Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies, vol. 209. pp. 448–457, 2021. doi: 10.1007/978-981-33-4260-6_38.
[19] X. Xian and H. Shen, “Assessing Intentional Use of AR in Cultural Heritage Learning,” Proceedings - 2020 International Symposium on Educational Technology, ISET 2020. pp. 93–96, 2020. doi: 10.1109/ISET49818.2020.00029.
[20] S. G. Dacko and W. Xu, “Impact of Familiarity, Destination-Specific Relevance, and Marketing on Engagement with Augmented Reality Smart Tourism Experiences,” Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, vol. 1191 LNNS. pp. 425–439, 2024. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-74828-8_37.
[21] S. Jiang, B. Moyle, R. Yung, L. Tao, and N. Scott, “Augmented reality and the enhancement of memorable tourism experiences at heritage sites,” Current Issues in Tourism, vol. 26, no. 2. pp. 242–257, 2023. doi: 10.1080/13683500.2022.2026303.
[22] T. Panhale, D. Bryce, and E. Tsougkou, “Augmented reality and experience co-creation in heritage settings,” J. Mark. Manag., vol. 39, no. 5–6, pp. 470–497, Mar. 2023, doi: 10.1080/0267257X.2022.2120061.
[23] P. Tyagi, P. K. Tyagi, A. K. Singh, E. Jain, and A. K. Singh, “Tourist Experiences Through Mobile Augmented Reality,” presented at the Proceedings of the International Conference on Electronics and Renewable Systems, ICEARS 2022, 2022, pp. 1605–1610. doi: 10.1109/ICEARS53579.2022.9752325.
[24] S. M. C. Loureiro, A. Al-Ansi, H. B. Ryu, A. Ariza-Montes, and H. Han, “Culture, heritage looting, and tourism: A text mining review approach,” Front. Psychol., vol. 13, 2022, doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.944250.
[25] P. Á. P. Correia, “Metaverse in tourism: A pathway to sustainability and regeneration,” International Journal of Technology Management and Sustainable Development, vol. 24, no. 2. pp. 125–149, 2025. doi: 10.1386/tmsd_00104_1.
[26] A. A. Mustapha, S. Saruchi, M. I. Solihin, F. K. Aldeen, and A. A. M. Al-Talib, “Exploring the Performance of YOLOv11: Detecting Compostable and Non-Compostable Kitchen Waste in Real-Time Applications,” presented at the Proceedings of International Conference on Artificial Life and Robotics, 2025, pp. 392–397. [Online]. Available: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85219506195&partnerID=40&md5=f81ba56266efb3277ce0cc5e9305918d
[27] A. Abu Elsamen, A. Fotiadis, A. A. Alalwan, and T.-C. Huan, “Enhancing pro-environmental behavior in tourism: Integrating attitudinal factors and Norm Activation Theory,” Tour. Manag., vol. 109, p. 105155, Aug. 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.tourman.2025.105155.
[28] M. Katsiokalis, E. Tsekeri, A. Lilli, K. Gobakis, D. Kolokotsa, and K. Mania, “GoNature AR: Air Quality & Noise Visualization Through a Multimodal and Interactive Augmented Reality Experience,” IMX 2023 - Proceedings of the 2023 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences. pp. 366–369, 2023. doi: 10.1145/3573381.3597229.
[29] J. Baldeón, D. Auccapuri, E. Díaz, A. Masuda, and R. Gálvez, “Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Augmented Reality Platform in Promoting Sustainable Tourism in the Peruvian Amazon Jungle,” presented at the Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics), 2025, pp. 223–241. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-76815-6_16.
[30] J. Liang, S. Huang, R. He, and J. Zhang, “AI-Enhanced Co-Creation in Industrial Heritage Architecture Tourism: Exploring Authenticity and Well-Being at the Yangpu Cold Storage Facility,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 19, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17198823.
[31] P. P. Ariza-Colpas et al., “Tourism and Conservation Empowered by Augmented Reality: A Scientometric Analysis Based on the Science Tree Metaphor,” Sustainability, vol. 15, no. 24, p. 16847, Dec. 2023, doi: 10.3390/su152416847.
[32] S. Li, H.-Y. Kim, and S.-J. Yoon, “AR(Augmented Reality) Experiences and Tourist Engagement: Verifying the Role of Destination Brand Relationship, Immersion, and Emotional Attachment,” Glob. Bus. Finance Rev., vol. 29, no. 11, pp. 1–15, 2024, doi: 10.17549/gbfr.2024.29.11.1.
[33] T. H. Pham, L. C. Nguyen, N. T. M. Luu, A. Siriwardana, and J. L. T. Ong, “Exploring the role of AR and VR in sustainable travel and conservation,” J. Ecotourism, 2025, doi: 10.1080/14724049.2025.2580301.
[34] A. V. Tran and B. T. Khoa, “THE IMPACT OF MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY ON GREEN EXPERIENCE AND DESTINATION CHOICE INTENTION IN GREEN TOURISM IN VIETNAM,” Geoj. Tour. Geosites, vol. 58, no. 1, pp. 136–145, 2025, doi: 10.30892/gtg.58112-1397.
[35] S. Hempel et al., “Evidence-Based Quality Improvement: a Scoping Review of the Literature,” J. Gen. Intern. Med., vol. 37, no. 16, pp. 4257–4267, Dec. 2022, doi: 10.1007/s11606-022-07602-5.
[36] N. Z. Maharani, S. S. Kurniawan, D. I. Sensuse, I. Eitiveni, D. S. Hidayat, and E. H. Purwaningsih, “Motivations and Potential Solutions in Developing a Knowledge Management System for Organization at Higher Education: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 270–289, Jun. 2024, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.10.2.270-289.
[37] I. Z. Mustaqim and R. R. Suryono, “A Systematic Literature Review of Topic Modeling Techniques in User Reviews,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 238–253, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.11.2.238-253.
[38] M. A. W. P. Rahmadhan, D. I. Sensuse, R. R. Suryono, and K. Kautsarina, “Trends and Applications of Gamification in E-Commerce: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 9, no. 1, pp. 28–37, Apr. 2023, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.9.1.28-37.
[39] C. Oruthotaarachchi and J. Wijayanayake, “Aligning Software Product Management with Software Engineering Concepts: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 143–159, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.11.2.143-159.
[40] H. Carter-Templeton et al., “Completeness of Systematic Reviews in Nursing Literature Based on PRISMA Reporting Guidelines,” Adv. Nurs. Sci., Apr. 2025, doi: 10.1097/ANS.0000000000000567.
[41] A. Saeidmehr, P. D. G. Steel, and F. F. Samavati, “Systematic review using a spiral approach with machine learning,” Syst. Rev., vol. 13, no. 1, p. 32, Jan. 2024, doi: 10.1186/s13643-023-02421-z.
[42] Y.-J. Luo and P.-W. Hsiao, “Design of Interactive Learning Materials with Concept of Sustainability Integrated into Macau Drunken Dragon Dance †,” Eng. Proc., vol. 38, no. 1, 2023, doi: 10.3390/engproc2023038012.
[43] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[44] X. Jiang, “Exploring the Impact of Metaverse Tourism Technology on Alleviating Overtourism: An Integrated Approach Using TAM and TPB,” SAGE Open, vol. 15, no. 2, 2025, doi: 10.1177/21582440251344000.
[45] S. Van Nguyen, S. T. Le, M. K. Tran, and H. M. Tran, “Reconstruction of 3D digital heritage objects for VR and AR applications,” J. Inf. Telecommun., vol. 6, no. 3, pp. 254–269, 2022, doi: 10.1080/24751839.2021.2008133.
[46] R. Leitão, S. Yao, and L. Guimarães, “An augmented reality board game to work ocean literacy dimensions,” Educ. Inf. Technol., vol. 30, no. 13, pp. 19245–19268, 2025, doi: 10.1007/s10639-025-13519-3.
[47] R. S. Hasibuan, R. Soekmadi, H. Purnomo, and N. B. Mulyono, “Evaluation of Visitor Loyalty to Technology-Based Attractions for Sustainable Tourism at Taman Safari Indonesia after COVID-19,” J. Pengelolaan Sumberd. Alam Dan Lingkung., vol. 15, no. 4, pp. 604–614, 2025, doi: 10.29244/jpsl.15.4.604.
[48] X. Hui, S. H. Raza, S. W. Khan, U. Zaman, and E. C. Ogadimma, “Exploring Regenerative Tourism Using Media Richness Theory: Emerging Role of Immersive Journalism, Metaverse-Based Promotion, Eco-Literacy, and Pro-Environmental Behavior,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 15, no. 6, 2023, doi: 10.3390/su15065046.
[49] A. Martínez-Graña, J. A. González-Delgado, C. Nieto, V. Villalba, and T. Cabero, “Geodiversity and Geoheritage to Promote Geotourism Using Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Flights in the Arosa Estuary (NW Spain),” Land, vol. 12, no. 5, 2023, doi: 10.3390/land12051068.
[50] A. M. Martínez-Graña, T. Díez, J. Á. González-Delgado, J. C. Gonzalo-Corral, and L. Merchán, “Geological Heritage in the ‘Arribes del Duero’ Natural Park (Western, Spain): A Case Study of Introducing Educational Information via Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Itineraries,” Land, vol. 11, no. 11, 2022, doi: 10.3390/land11111916.
[51] R. Silva, R. Jesus, and P. Jorge, “Development and Evaluation of a Mobile Application with Augmented Reality for Guiding Visitors on Hiking Trails,” Multimodal Technol. Interact., vol. 7, no. 6, 2023, doi: 10.3390/mti7060058.
[52] R. Scollen and A. Mason, “Shark Dive and Hologram Zoo: Two Case Studies of Virtual Animal Encounters as Possible Models for Sustainable Wildlife Tourism,” Animals, vol. 14, no. 6, 2024, doi: 10.3390/ani14060926.
[53] K. Efkleidou et al., “Smart Eye: An Application for in Situ Accessibility to ‘Invisible’ Heritage Sites,” J. Comput. Appl. Archaeol., vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 286–298, 2022, doi: 10.5334/jcaa.100.
[54] E. L. Verstraete, S. Kuo, N. Adams, and A. J. Zachwieja, “Embodying the impact of climate change for decision makers using augmented reality (AR): A case study of climate-threatened cultural heritage sites in Western Alaska,” Environ. Sci. Policy, vol. 171, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104178.
[55] L. Melelli, G. Bianchini, and L. Fanò, “HUSH (Hiking in Urban Scientific Heritage): The Augmented Reality for Enhancing the Geological and Naturalistic Heritage in Urban Areas,” Appl. Sci. Switz., vol. 13, no. 15, 2023, doi: 10.3390/app13158857.
[56] I. A. Sorcaru et al., “Augmented reality marketing in family ecotourism: Cognitive and behavioral drivers of destination branding,” J. Innov. Knowl., vol. 10, no. 4, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.jik.2025.100742.
[57] S. Chen, Y. Tian, and S. Pei, “Technological Use from the Perspective of Cultural Heritage Environment: Augmented Reality Technology and Formation Mechanism of Heritage-Responsibility Behaviors of Tourists,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 16, no. 18, 2024, doi: 10.3390/su16188261.
[58] C. Li, Z. Ye, W. Wen, L. Li, and J. Shao, “Beyond Photorealism: An AIGC-Powered Framework for Stylized and Gamified Cultural Heritage Revitalization,” Buildings, vol. 15, no. 20, 2025, doi: 10.3390/buildings15203782.
[59] X. Xu, C. Tang, X. Zhang, and Z. Liu, “Enhanced Realism in Animal Fur Simulation for Digital Conservation: A Physically-Based Rendering and Augmented Reality Approach,” Appl. Sci. Switz., vol. 15, no. 14, 2025, doi: 10.3390/app15148049.
[60] A. Fatma and V. Bhatt, “‘Reality’ influencing ‘Actuality’: the role of augmented and virtual reality on ecotourism travel intention,” J. Ecotourism, vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 436–453, Jul. 2024, doi: 10.1080/14724049.2023.2273751.
[61] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, p. 25633, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[62] P.-Y. Su, P.-W. Hsiao, and K.-K. Fan, “Investigating the Relationship between Users’ Behavioral Intentions and Learning Effects of VR System for Sustainable Tourism Development,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 15, no. 9, 2023, doi: 10.3390/su15097277.
[63] X.-Z. Li, C.-C. Chen, X. Kang, and J. Kang, “Research on Relevant Dimensions of Tourism Experience of Intangible Cultural Heritage Lantern Festival: Integrating Generic Learning Outcomes With the Technology Acceptance Model,” Front. Psychol., vol. 13, 2022, doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.943277.
[64] A. Aggag and W. Kortam, “Using Augmented Reality to Improve Tourism Marketing Effectiveness,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 13, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17135747.
[65] L. Melelli, M. Palombo, and S. Nazzareni, “Ghost Mines for Geoheritage Enhancement in the Umbria Region (Central Italy),” Geosci. Switz., vol. 13, no. 7, 2023, doi: 10.3390/geosciences13070208.
[66] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[67] S. Garcês et al., “Exploring the Application of a Co-Creation Model in Archaeological Tourism: Two Case Studies Developed Under TURARQ’s Project Within the Frame of Link Me Up - 1000 Ideas Project,” Rev. Port. Estud. Reg., no. 70, pp. 125–141, 2025, doi: 10.59072/rper.vi70.638.
[68] A. S. Fernandes, T. S. Murdison, and M. J. Proulx, “Leveling the Playing Field: A Comparative Reevaluation of Unmodified Eye Tracking as an Input and Interaction Modality for VR,” IEEE Trans. Vis. Comput. Graph., vol. 29, no. 5, pp. 2269–2279, 2023, doi: 10.1109/TVCG.2023.3247058.
[69] Y. Lu, G. Mi, H. Lu, and Y. Wang, “Immersive Technologies in Built Heritage Spaces: Understanding Tourists’ Continuance Intention Toward Sustainable AR and VR Applications at the Terracotta Warriors Museum,” Buildings, vol. 15, no. 19, 2025, doi: 10.3390/buildings15193481.
[70] A. Kleftodimos, M. Moustaka, and A. Evagelou, “Location-Based Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage Education: Creating Educational, Gamified Location-Based AR Applications for the Prehistoric Lake Settlement of Dispilio,” Digital, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 18–45, 2023, doi: 10.3390/digital3010002.
[71] A. Rueda Márquez de la Plata, P. A. Cruz Franco, and J. A. Ramos Sánchez, “Architectural Survey, Diagnostic, and Constructive Analysis Strategies for Monumental Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management of Tourism,” Buildings, vol. 12, no. 8, 2022, doi: 10.3390/buildings12081156.
[72] M. Petrova, O. Sushchenko, N. Dekhtyar, and S. Shalbayeva, “The Prospects of Sustainable Development of Destroyed Tourism Areas Using Virtual Technologies,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 7, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17073016.
[2] A. A. Alola, K. K. Eluwole, T. T. Lasisi, and U. V. Alola, “Perspectives of globalization and tourism as drivers of ecological footprint in top 10 destination economies,” Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res., vol. 28, no. 24, pp. 31607–31617, Jun. 2021, doi: 10.1007/s11356-021-12871-4.
[3] Q. Du, Q. Guan, Y. Sun, and Q. Wang, “Assessment of Ecotourism Environmental Carrying Capacity in the Qilian Mountains, Northwest China,” Sustainability, vol. 16, no. 5, p. 1873, Feb. 2024, doi: 10.3390/su16051873.
[4] Danish and Z. Wang, “Dynamic relationship between tourism, economic growth, and environmental quality,” J. Sustain. Tour., vol. 26, no. 11, pp. 1928–1943, Nov. 2018, doi: 10.1080/09669582.2018.1526293.
[5] B. D. Simo-Kengne, “Tourism growth and environmental sustainability: trade-off or convergence?,” Environ. Dev. Sustain., vol. 24, no. 6, pp. 8115–8144, Jun. 2022, doi: 10.1007/s10668-021-01775-5.
[6] Y. Hamaguchi, “Environmental and Tourism Policies for the Decarbonization of the Tourism Sector,” in Sustainable Tourism: Frameworks, Practices, and Innovative Solutions, 2024, pp. 231–256. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-43528-7_11.
[7] C. M. Hall, “Changing paradigms and global change: From sustainable to steady-state tourism,” Tour. Recreat. Res., vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 131–143, 2010, doi: 10.1080/02508281.2010.11081629.
[8] F. Higgins-Desbiolles, “Sustainable tourism: Sustaining tourism or something more?,” Tour. Manag. Perspect., vol. 25, pp. 157–160, 2018, doi: 10.1016/j.tmp.2017.11.017.
[9] R. Wael, H. Talaat, and H. Soubra, “Smart Tourism in Smart Cities: Current Trends and Future Challenges in Sustainability and Digitization,” 2023 2nd International Conference on Smart Cities 4.0, Smart Cities 4.0 2023. pp. 95–98, 2023. doi: 10.1109/SmartCities4.056956.2023.10526099.
[10] M. Jawad and M. Naz, “Smart Tourism: Foundations, Developments and Management in Asia,” Technology Application in Tourism in Asia: Innovations, Theories and Practices. 2022. doi: 10.1007/978-981-16-5461-9_25.
[11] S. Shafiee, A. R. Ghatari, A. Hasanzadeh, and S. Jahanyan, “Developing a model for smart tourism destinations: an interpretive structural modelling approach,” Information Technology and Tourism, vol. 24, no. 4. pp. 511–546, 2022. doi: 10.1007/s40558-022-00236-7.
[12] E. E. Cranmer, M. C. tom Dieck, and T. Jung, “The role of augmented reality for sustainable development: Evidence from cultural heritage tourism,” Tourism Management Perspectives, vol. 49. 2023. doi: 10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101196.
[13] I. U. Rakhmanovich, M. Fallah, N. Karimov, and D. Biswas, “Smart Tourism using Artificial Intelligence empowered Augmented Reality for Personalization In Travel Experiences,” 2025 International Conference on Computational Innovations and Engineering Sustainability, ICCIES 2025. 2025. doi: 10.1109/ICCIES63851.2025.11032743.
[14] N. A. N. Ahmad, A. I. H. Suhaimi, and A. M. Lokman, “Conceptual Model of Augmented Reality Mobile Application Design (ARMAD) to Enhance user Experience: An Expert Review,” Int. J. Adv. Comput. Sci. Appl., vol. 13, no. 10, pp. 574–582, 2022, doi: 10.14569/IJACSA.2022.0131067.
[15] M. C. tom Dieck and T. Jung, “A theoretical model of mobile augmented reality acceptance in urban heritage tourism,” Curr. Issues Tour., vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 154–174, 2018, doi: 10.1080/13683500.2015.1070801.
[16] M. L. Olar, I. Samuil, M. Leba, and A. Ionica, “Augmented reality in postindustrial tourism,” presented at the IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 2019. doi: 10.1088/1757-899X/572/1/012093.
[17] A. Valencia-Arias, C. Ocampo-Osorio, J. Quiroz-Fabra, L. F. Garcés-Giraldo, and J. Valencia, “Research trends in augmented reality in tourism: A bibliometric analysis; [Tendencias investigativas en la aplicación de realidad aumentada en el sector turístico: Un análisis bibliométrico],” RISTI - Revista Iberica de Sistemas e Tecnologias de Informacao, vol. 2020, no. E36. pp. 229–242, 2020.
[18] M. Saeteros, M. Saavedra, C. Molina, and G. Caiza, “Augmented Reality Applied to the Tourism in Churches of the Historic Center of Quito,” Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies, vol. 209. pp. 448–457, 2021. doi: 10.1007/978-981-33-4260-6_38.
[19] X. Xian and H. Shen, “Assessing Intentional Use of AR in Cultural Heritage Learning,” Proceedings - 2020 International Symposium on Educational Technology, ISET 2020. pp. 93–96, 2020. doi: 10.1109/ISET49818.2020.00029.
[20] S. G. Dacko and W. Xu, “Impact of Familiarity, Destination-Specific Relevance, and Marketing on Engagement with Augmented Reality Smart Tourism Experiences,” Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, vol. 1191 LNNS. pp. 425–439, 2024. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-74828-8_37.
[21] S. Jiang, B. Moyle, R. Yung, L. Tao, and N. Scott, “Augmented reality and the enhancement of memorable tourism experiences at heritage sites,” Current Issues in Tourism, vol. 26, no. 2. pp. 242–257, 2023. doi: 10.1080/13683500.2022.2026303.
[22] T. Panhale, D. Bryce, and E. Tsougkou, “Augmented reality and experience co-creation in heritage settings,” J. Mark. Manag., vol. 39, no. 5–6, pp. 470–497, Mar. 2023, doi: 10.1080/0267257X.2022.2120061.
[23] P. Tyagi, P. K. Tyagi, A. K. Singh, E. Jain, and A. K. Singh, “Tourist Experiences Through Mobile Augmented Reality,” presented at the Proceedings of the International Conference on Electronics and Renewable Systems, ICEARS 2022, 2022, pp. 1605–1610. doi: 10.1109/ICEARS53579.2022.9752325.
[24] S. M. C. Loureiro, A. Al-Ansi, H. B. Ryu, A. Ariza-Montes, and H. Han, “Culture, heritage looting, and tourism: A text mining review approach,” Front. Psychol., vol. 13, 2022, doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.944250.
[25] P. Á. P. Correia, “Metaverse in tourism: A pathway to sustainability and regeneration,” International Journal of Technology Management and Sustainable Development, vol. 24, no. 2. pp. 125–149, 2025. doi: 10.1386/tmsd_00104_1.
[26] A. A. Mustapha, S. Saruchi, M. I. Solihin, F. K. Aldeen, and A. A. M. Al-Talib, “Exploring the Performance of YOLOv11: Detecting Compostable and Non-Compostable Kitchen Waste in Real-Time Applications,” presented at the Proceedings of International Conference on Artificial Life and Robotics, 2025, pp. 392–397. [Online]. Available: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85219506195&partnerID=40&md5=f81ba56266efb3277ce0cc5e9305918d
[27] A. Abu Elsamen, A. Fotiadis, A. A. Alalwan, and T.-C. Huan, “Enhancing pro-environmental behavior in tourism: Integrating attitudinal factors and Norm Activation Theory,” Tour. Manag., vol. 109, p. 105155, Aug. 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.tourman.2025.105155.
[28] M. Katsiokalis, E. Tsekeri, A. Lilli, K. Gobakis, D. Kolokotsa, and K. Mania, “GoNature AR: Air Quality & Noise Visualization Through a Multimodal and Interactive Augmented Reality Experience,” IMX 2023 - Proceedings of the 2023 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences. pp. 366–369, 2023. doi: 10.1145/3573381.3597229.
[29] J. Baldeón, D. Auccapuri, E. Díaz, A. Masuda, and R. Gálvez, “Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Augmented Reality Platform in Promoting Sustainable Tourism in the Peruvian Amazon Jungle,” presented at the Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics), 2025, pp. 223–241. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-76815-6_16.
[30] J. Liang, S. Huang, R. He, and J. Zhang, “AI-Enhanced Co-Creation in Industrial Heritage Architecture Tourism: Exploring Authenticity and Well-Being at the Yangpu Cold Storage Facility,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 19, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17198823.
[31] P. P. Ariza-Colpas et al., “Tourism and Conservation Empowered by Augmented Reality: A Scientometric Analysis Based on the Science Tree Metaphor,” Sustainability, vol. 15, no. 24, p. 16847, Dec. 2023, doi: 10.3390/su152416847.
[32] S. Li, H.-Y. Kim, and S.-J. Yoon, “AR(Augmented Reality) Experiences and Tourist Engagement: Verifying the Role of Destination Brand Relationship, Immersion, and Emotional Attachment,” Glob. Bus. Finance Rev., vol. 29, no. 11, pp. 1–15, 2024, doi: 10.17549/gbfr.2024.29.11.1.
[33] T. H. Pham, L. C. Nguyen, N. T. M. Luu, A. Siriwardana, and J. L. T. Ong, “Exploring the role of AR and VR in sustainable travel and conservation,” J. Ecotourism, 2025, doi: 10.1080/14724049.2025.2580301.
[34] A. V. Tran and B. T. Khoa, “THE IMPACT OF MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY ON GREEN EXPERIENCE AND DESTINATION CHOICE INTENTION IN GREEN TOURISM IN VIETNAM,” Geoj. Tour. Geosites, vol. 58, no. 1, pp. 136–145, 2025, doi: 10.30892/gtg.58112-1397.
[35] S. Hempel et al., “Evidence-Based Quality Improvement: a Scoping Review of the Literature,” J. Gen. Intern. Med., vol. 37, no. 16, pp. 4257–4267, Dec. 2022, doi: 10.1007/s11606-022-07602-5.
[36] N. Z. Maharani, S. S. Kurniawan, D. I. Sensuse, I. Eitiveni, D. S. Hidayat, and E. H. Purwaningsih, “Motivations and Potential Solutions in Developing a Knowledge Management System for Organization at Higher Education: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 270–289, Jun. 2024, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.10.2.270-289.
[37] I. Z. Mustaqim and R. R. Suryono, “A Systematic Literature Review of Topic Modeling Techniques in User Reviews,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 238–253, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.11.2.238-253.
[38] M. A. W. P. Rahmadhan, D. I. Sensuse, R. R. Suryono, and K. Kautsarina, “Trends and Applications of Gamification in E-Commerce: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 9, no. 1, pp. 28–37, Apr. 2023, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.9.1.28-37.
[39] C. Oruthotaarachchi and J. Wijayanayake, “Aligning Software Product Management with Software Engineering Concepts: A Systematic Literature Review,” J. Inf. Syst. Eng. Bus. Intell., vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 143–159, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.20473/jisebi.11.2.143-159.
[40] H. Carter-Templeton et al., “Completeness of Systematic Reviews in Nursing Literature Based on PRISMA Reporting Guidelines,” Adv. Nurs. Sci., Apr. 2025, doi: 10.1097/ANS.0000000000000567.
[41] A. Saeidmehr, P. D. G. Steel, and F. F. Samavati, “Systematic review using a spiral approach with machine learning,” Syst. Rev., vol. 13, no. 1, p. 32, Jan. 2024, doi: 10.1186/s13643-023-02421-z.
[42] Y.-J. Luo and P.-W. Hsiao, “Design of Interactive Learning Materials with Concept of Sustainability Integrated into Macau Drunken Dragon Dance †,” Eng. Proc., vol. 38, no. 1, 2023, doi: 10.3390/engproc2023038012.
[43] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[44] X. Jiang, “Exploring the Impact of Metaverse Tourism Technology on Alleviating Overtourism: An Integrated Approach Using TAM and TPB,” SAGE Open, vol. 15, no. 2, 2025, doi: 10.1177/21582440251344000.
[45] S. Van Nguyen, S. T. Le, M. K. Tran, and H. M. Tran, “Reconstruction of 3D digital heritage objects for VR and AR applications,” J. Inf. Telecommun., vol. 6, no. 3, pp. 254–269, 2022, doi: 10.1080/24751839.2021.2008133.
[46] R. Leitão, S. Yao, and L. Guimarães, “An augmented reality board game to work ocean literacy dimensions,” Educ. Inf. Technol., vol. 30, no. 13, pp. 19245–19268, 2025, doi: 10.1007/s10639-025-13519-3.
[47] R. S. Hasibuan, R. Soekmadi, H. Purnomo, and N. B. Mulyono, “Evaluation of Visitor Loyalty to Technology-Based Attractions for Sustainable Tourism at Taman Safari Indonesia after COVID-19,” J. Pengelolaan Sumberd. Alam Dan Lingkung., vol. 15, no. 4, pp. 604–614, 2025, doi: 10.29244/jpsl.15.4.604.
[48] X. Hui, S. H. Raza, S. W. Khan, U. Zaman, and E. C. Ogadimma, “Exploring Regenerative Tourism Using Media Richness Theory: Emerging Role of Immersive Journalism, Metaverse-Based Promotion, Eco-Literacy, and Pro-Environmental Behavior,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 15, no. 6, 2023, doi: 10.3390/su15065046.
[49] A. Martínez-Graña, J. A. González-Delgado, C. Nieto, V. Villalba, and T. Cabero, “Geodiversity and Geoheritage to Promote Geotourism Using Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Flights in the Arosa Estuary (NW Spain),” Land, vol. 12, no. 5, 2023, doi: 10.3390/land12051068.
[50] A. M. Martínez-Graña, T. Díez, J. Á. González-Delgado, J. C. Gonzalo-Corral, and L. Merchán, “Geological Heritage in the ‘Arribes del Duero’ Natural Park (Western, Spain): A Case Study of Introducing Educational Information via Augmented Reality and 3D Virtual Itineraries,” Land, vol. 11, no. 11, 2022, doi: 10.3390/land11111916.
[51] R. Silva, R. Jesus, and P. Jorge, “Development and Evaluation of a Mobile Application with Augmented Reality for Guiding Visitors on Hiking Trails,” Multimodal Technol. Interact., vol. 7, no. 6, 2023, doi: 10.3390/mti7060058.
[52] R. Scollen and A. Mason, “Shark Dive and Hologram Zoo: Two Case Studies of Virtual Animal Encounters as Possible Models for Sustainable Wildlife Tourism,” Animals, vol. 14, no. 6, 2024, doi: 10.3390/ani14060926.
[53] K. Efkleidou et al., “Smart Eye: An Application for in Situ Accessibility to ‘Invisible’ Heritage Sites,” J. Comput. Appl. Archaeol., vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 286–298, 2022, doi: 10.5334/jcaa.100.
[54] E. L. Verstraete, S. Kuo, N. Adams, and A. J. Zachwieja, “Embodying the impact of climate change for decision makers using augmented reality (AR): A case study of climate-threatened cultural heritage sites in Western Alaska,” Environ. Sci. Policy, vol. 171, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104178.
[55] L. Melelli, G. Bianchini, and L. Fanò, “HUSH (Hiking in Urban Scientific Heritage): The Augmented Reality for Enhancing the Geological and Naturalistic Heritage in Urban Areas,” Appl. Sci. Switz., vol. 13, no. 15, 2023, doi: 10.3390/app13158857.
[56] I. A. Sorcaru et al., “Augmented reality marketing in family ecotourism: Cognitive and behavioral drivers of destination branding,” J. Innov. Knowl., vol. 10, no. 4, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.jik.2025.100742.
[57] S. Chen, Y. Tian, and S. Pei, “Technological Use from the Perspective of Cultural Heritage Environment: Augmented Reality Technology and Formation Mechanism of Heritage-Responsibility Behaviors of Tourists,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 16, no. 18, 2024, doi: 10.3390/su16188261.
[58] C. Li, Z. Ye, W. Wen, L. Li, and J. Shao, “Beyond Photorealism: An AIGC-Powered Framework for Stylized and Gamified Cultural Heritage Revitalization,” Buildings, vol. 15, no. 20, 2025, doi: 10.3390/buildings15203782.
[59] X. Xu, C. Tang, X. Zhang, and Z. Liu, “Enhanced Realism in Animal Fur Simulation for Digital Conservation: A Physically-Based Rendering and Augmented Reality Approach,” Appl. Sci. Switz., vol. 15, no. 14, 2025, doi: 10.3390/app15148049.
[60] A. Fatma and V. Bhatt, “‘Reality’ influencing ‘Actuality’: the role of augmented and virtual reality on ecotourism travel intention,” J. Ecotourism, vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 436–453, Jul. 2024, doi: 10.1080/14724049.2023.2273751.
[61] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, p. 25633, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[62] P.-Y. Su, P.-W. Hsiao, and K.-K. Fan, “Investigating the Relationship between Users’ Behavioral Intentions and Learning Effects of VR System for Sustainable Tourism Development,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 15, no. 9, 2023, doi: 10.3390/su15097277.
[63] X.-Z. Li, C.-C. Chen, X. Kang, and J. Kang, “Research on Relevant Dimensions of Tourism Experience of Intangible Cultural Heritage Lantern Festival: Integrating Generic Learning Outcomes With the Technology Acceptance Model,” Front. Psychol., vol. 13, 2022, doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.943277.
[64] A. Aggag and W. Kortam, “Using Augmented Reality to Improve Tourism Marketing Effectiveness,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 13, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17135747.
[65] L. Melelli, M. Palombo, and S. Nazzareni, “Ghost Mines for Geoheritage Enhancement in the Umbria Region (Central Italy),” Geosci. Switz., vol. 13, no. 7, 2023, doi: 10.3390/geosciences13070208.
[66] L. Zhang, Y. Yin, L. Liu, and S. Yang, “Exploring the effects of AR presence and personal norms on museum visitor pro-environmental behaviour intentions,” Sci. Rep., vol. 15, no. 1, 2025, doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-11119-2.
[67] S. Garcês et al., “Exploring the Application of a Co-Creation Model in Archaeological Tourism: Two Case Studies Developed Under TURARQ’s Project Within the Frame of Link Me Up - 1000 Ideas Project,” Rev. Port. Estud. Reg., no. 70, pp. 125–141, 2025, doi: 10.59072/rper.vi70.638.
[68] A. S. Fernandes, T. S. Murdison, and M. J. Proulx, “Leveling the Playing Field: A Comparative Reevaluation of Unmodified Eye Tracking as an Input and Interaction Modality for VR,” IEEE Trans. Vis. Comput. Graph., vol. 29, no. 5, pp. 2269–2279, 2023, doi: 10.1109/TVCG.2023.3247058.
[69] Y. Lu, G. Mi, H. Lu, and Y. Wang, “Immersive Technologies in Built Heritage Spaces: Understanding Tourists’ Continuance Intention Toward Sustainable AR and VR Applications at the Terracotta Warriors Museum,” Buildings, vol. 15, no. 19, 2025, doi: 10.3390/buildings15193481.
[70] A. Kleftodimos, M. Moustaka, and A. Evagelou, “Location-Based Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage Education: Creating Educational, Gamified Location-Based AR Applications for the Prehistoric Lake Settlement of Dispilio,” Digital, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 18–45, 2023, doi: 10.3390/digital3010002.
[71] A. Rueda Márquez de la Plata, P. A. Cruz Franco, and J. A. Ramos Sánchez, “Architectural Survey, Diagnostic, and Constructive Analysis Strategies for Monumental Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management of Tourism,” Buildings, vol. 12, no. 8, 2022, doi: 10.3390/buildings12081156.
[72] M. Petrova, O. Sushchenko, N. Dekhtyar, and S. Shalbayeva, “The Prospects of Sustainable Development of Destroyed Tourism Areas Using Virtual Technologies,” Sustain. Switz., vol. 17, no. 7, 2025, doi: 10.3390/su17073016.
Copyright and Licensing
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.