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Title: Impact of sewage treatment plants on local tourism and ecotourism

Authors: Rui Guo; Yuanyu Zhang; Long Zhang

Addresses: School of Economics and Management, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai, China ' School of Economics and Management, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai, China ' The Department of Leisure Service Sports, Pai Chai University, Daejeon, 302735, Korea

Abstract: Sewage treatment plants (STP) significantly impact local tourism and ecotourism by improving water quality, enhancing scenic accessibility, and boosting tourist experiences. This study analysed STP effects in Xi'an, comparing suspended solids and tourism revenue in four scenic areas in June 2023 and June 2025. Results showed STP reduced suspended solids, improved environmental quality, and increased tourism revenue. Specifically, scenic areas exhibited notable decreases in water pollutants and substantial increases in income. STP supports ecosystem protection, enhances tourism resources, and promotes sustainable development. This highlights STP's role in balancing environmental protection and tourism growth, offering insights for sustainable ecotourism strategies.

Keywords: STP; sewage treatment plant; local tourism; ecotourism development; tourism revenue; tourist satisfaction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEP.2026.154049

International Journal of Environment and Pollution, 2026 Vol.76 No.7, pp.56 - 76

Received: 03 Sep 2025
Accepted: 06 Feb 2026
Published online: 10 Jun 2026 *