Exploring the Role of the Blue Economy in Sustainable Tourism for Coastal Communities

About the project

Are you passionate about the intersection of the blue economy and tourism, particularly in how these elements can drive sustainable development in coastal regions?

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the role of the blue economy in promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both coastal ecosystems and local communities.

We invite you to apply for a unique opportunity to join our research team.

Research area

Immerse yourself in the specialised field of the Blue Economy and Sustainable Tourism. This area focuses on leveraging marine and coastal resources to foster eco-tourism models that support environmental conservation, generate economic benefits, and improve social wellbeing in coastal regions. You will have the opportunity to develop innovative solutions that balance the needs of tourism operators, local communities, and the environment.

Project description

The "Exploring the Role of the Blue Economy in Sustainable Tourism for Coastal Communities" project will investigate how blue economy principles can reshape tourism in coastal and marine areas, focusing on sustainability, resource efficiency, and community benefits. The successful candidate will examine the socio-economic impacts of tourism, conservation efforts, and how innovative blue economy solutions can enhance the resilience of both local economies and ecosystems.

Key focus areas

As a PhD candidate, you will focus on:

• Sustainable tourism models: Identify and integrate blue economy practices such as eco-tourism, marine conservation, and circular tourism strategies.
• Impact analysis: Analyse the environmental, economic, and social impacts of marine and coastal tourism on local communities, proposing strategies to minimise negative consequences.
• Marine protected areas: Explore the role of MPAs and other conservation efforts in fostering sustainable tourism.
• Blue economy innovations: Investigate the potential of marine renewable energy, sustainable fisheries, and other innovations in supporting tourism development.
• Stakeholder engagement: Collaborate with tourism operators, environmental organisations, and government bodies to propose practical solutions for sustainable tourism.

Research approach

This project employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining theoretical frameworks and data analysis methods to explore the role of the blue economy in sustainable tourism. You will:

• Implement theoretical frameworks: Use Socio-Ecological Systems Theory, Stakeholder Theory, Resource-Based View, Ecotourism, Circular Economy frameworks, Community-Based Development Theory, and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to guide your research.
• Conduct data analysis: Employ qualitative techniques such as interviews, content analysis, and participatory research, as well as quantitative methods like econometric modelling, life cycle analysis (LCA), and system simulations.
• Collaborate across disciplines: Work with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings from various fields, ensuring a holistic approach to the research.

Who we're looking for

Ideal candidates should have:

• A background in Business and Management or a related field.
• Strong interest in sustainable tourism, conservation, and the application of the blue economy to the tourism sector.
• Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, environmental impact assessment, or tourism development.
• Familiarity with socio-economic analysis, policy frameworks, and the role of local communities.

Start date

All PhD students will begin their programme and training in January or September 2025.

Enquiries and applications

If you are excited to explore marine energy innovations and contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions, please contact Dr Pak Seresht at ashkan.pakseresht@brunel.ac.uk for more details on the project and application process.

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.