Evaluation of Social Sustainability of Tourism Highway Network

Abstract

The majority of traffic on tourist routes is generated by tourists, who traverse roadside attractions or beltway corridors, and integrate auxiliary and major road infrastructure with scenic landscapes. However, the transportation and tourism industries face challenges in terms of environmental pollution and poor road safety. The aim of this study is to evaluate the social sustainability of three major tourist highway networks in Shanxi Province, specifically the Taihang, Great Wall, and Yellow River tourist highways. A survey of 300 tourists was conducted to gather information on transportation pathways, covering tourism and transportation management aspects. Statistical analysis was employed to analyze the data, while geographic information systems (GIS) were used to map the highway networks, assess accessibility, and identify potential development locations. The results show how social sustainability is currently performing across Shanxi's three main tourism highway networks. The study also explores the impacts on regional economies and ways of life, as well as initiatives aimed at conserving cultural heritage and environmental sustainability along these roadways. The findings emphasize the importance of achieving a balance among environmental, social, and economic issues to ensure that tourist route networks have positive impacts on surrounding communities and the tourism sector.