INTRODUCTION
Vietnam’s tourism industry is often called the “goose that laid the golden eggs” due to its significant economic benefits As people's living standards improve, there is a rising demand for leisure and recreational activities, fueling the strong growth of the tourism sector Meanwhile, rapid urbanization and industrialization have distanced many from nature, leading to increased stress from high-pressure work environments This has created a growing desire among people to seek out natural, tranquil locations with fresh, cool air for relaxation and health renewal Consequently, this trend presents a valuable opportunity for tourism development in Vietnam.
Tourism is a vital economic industry that interacts closely with various socio-economic sectors, fundamentally linked to environmental sustainability The growth and development of tourism depend on the preservation of the environment, as a healthy environment is essential for attracting visitors and ensuring long-term industry viability (Trung Dung, 2017).
Proper utilization of natural resources and environmental conditions at tourist destinations is essential for sustainable development, as emphasized by the UNWTO (2002) Environmental protection remains a crucial aspect of tourism activities, ensuring that ecological impacts are minimized The environmental impact of tourism can be effectively controlled when the business community actively contributes to resource restoration and ecological conservation efforts (Ha Thi Phuong Lan, 2012).
Ba Vi is a semi-mountainous district northwest of Hanoi, covering 424.03 km² with a population of over 267,000—including Kinh, Muong, and Dao ethnic groups The district comprises 31 communes and towns, of which 7 are mountainous, and shares borders with Son Tay town to the east, Hoa Binh Province to the south, Phu Tho Province to the west, and Vinh Phuc Province to the north Renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, lush ecosystems, and diverse vegetation, Ba Vi is often called the "green lung" of Hanoi’s west, making it a vital area for ecological preservation and tourism.
Ba Vi District’s tourism industry has expanded rapidly due to favorable geographical conditions and abundant natural resources, yet this growth has impacted the local environment Despite the importance of environmental protection for sustainable tourism development, current efforts are limited in scope and effectiveness, leading to concerns about environmental quality Protecting the natural environment in Ba Vi’s tourism activities is crucial for the region’s long-term success, as emphasized by local officials such as Vice Chairman Do Manh Hung It is essential for tourism organizations, managers, scientists, and participants to collaboratively contribute their expertise to ensure sustainable development This recognition inspired the thesis topic: "Generating Environmental Criteria and Indicators for Monitoring and Assessing Sustainable Tourism in Ba Vi District, Hanoi, Vietnam," aimed at establishing effective assessment tools and promoting strategies to preserve Ba Vi's natural environment for future generations.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Goals
The goal of this thesis is to generate environmental criteria and indicators in monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Objectives
1) To access current tourism status in Ba Vi District
2) To establish a scientific and practical basis for establishing environmental criteria and indicators in monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District
3) To develop a set of environmental criteria and indicators in monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism in the study area by the Delphi method.
STUDY SITE AND METHODOLOGY
Study site
Figure 1 Ba Vi Tourism Map
(Source: People's Committee of Ba Vi District)
Ba Vi is one of 29 Districts in Hanoi, Vietnam It is located between latitudes 21°4′0″ North and longitudes 105°20′5″ East in the Red River Delta
Ba Vi is lying in the northwest bottom of Hanoi, containing a majority part of
Ba Vi Mountain running through the Southern of district
The district borders Son Tay town to the east and Thach That district to the southeast It also shares borders with Luong Son district and Ky Son of Hoa Binh province to the southwest To the north, it is bordered by Viet Tri City in Phu Tho Province, with the Red River (Thao River) forming part of its northern boundary Additionally, the district is adjacent to Lam Thao, Tam Nong, and Thanh Thuy districts in Phu Tho Province to the west.
Ba Vi District, located in Vinh Phuc Province, borders Vinh Tuong District to the northeast along the Red River Covering an area of 424.03 square kilometers, it is the largest district of Hanoi Notably, Ba Vi features two major lakes, Suoi Hai Lake and Dong Mo Lake, adding to its natural beauty and ecological significance.
Ba Vi District features artificial lakes situated in the Tich River watershed, which flows through Son Tay town and western Hanoi districts before emptying into the Day River Ba Vi National Park is a key attraction within the district, drawing visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities Additionally, the district's borders with Phu Tho province include two important junctions: Trung Ha junction, where the Da River meets the Red River in Phong Van, and Bach Hac junction, located between the Red River and Lo River in Tan Hong and Phu Cuong communes, opposite Viet Tri City.
Ba Vi District is a semi-mountainous region characterized by diverse topography, with lower terrain extending from the southwest to the northeast The district can be divided into three sub-regions: mountainous areas, hilly terrains, and plains The mountainous region covers 46.5% of the district and includes the entire Ba Vi National Park and seven mountainous communes, making it a significant ecological and geographical feature The hilly area comprises 34.7% of the district, featuring a gradual decrease in elevation from around 100 meters to approximately 20 meters in the northwest, with a landscape dominated by hills, mounds, and high fields The delta region makes up 18.5% of the district and is characterized by relatively flat terrain, suitable for agriculture and rural development.
Ba Vi District's land is divided into two main groups: the delta land area and the hilly land area The delta region covers 12,892 hectares, accounting for 41.1% of the district's total land, while the mountainous area spans 18,478 hectares, making up 58.9% This distribution highlights the district's diverse topography, with the majority of land situated in the hilly and mountainous regions (Nguyen Thi Quynh Trang, 2017).
Ba Vi is located in the Red River Delta region affected by a tropical monsoon climate The average meteorological factors for many years at Ba Vi meteorological station show that:
The rainy season in the region spans from April to October, characterized by an average temperature of 23°C, with the hottest months being June and July at 28.6°C Annually, total rainfall reaches approximately 1832.2mm, accounting for 90.87% of the year’s precipitation The area experiences over 100mm of rainfall each month, totaling 104 rainy days throughout the season August records the highest monthly rainfall, with 339.6mm, making it the wettest month of the year.
The dry season in the region begins in November and lasts through March, with temperatures averaging around 20°C January experiences the lowest temperatures, dropping to approximately 15.8°C Rainfall during these months varies between 15.0mm and 64.4mm, with December receiving the least amount of rain at just 15mm, making it the driest month of the season.
Ba Vi features a unique hydrological network, surrounded by two major rivers—the Red River and the Da River—and numerous small streams originating from the mountain's peak During the rainy season, these waterways form stunning waterfalls like AoVua, Nga, and KhoangXanh, creating a picturesque landscape From the summit of Ba Vi Mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the area, with the Da River flowing along the western foot of the mountain and Dong Mo Lake situated to the east.
North is Suoi Hai Lake, and the farther is the Red River All create the charming landscape of the Ba Vi Mountain (Minh Hue, 2019)
Ba Vi District boasts approximately 9,867 hectares of forest, representing about 40% of Hanoi City's total forest area These lush forests are primarily located in seven mountainous communes within the buffer zone of Ba Vi National Park, highlighting the district's vital role in conservation and biodiversity preservation.
Ba Vi Forest, located within Ba Vi National Park, boasts a rich and diverse variety of forest types and species The park plays a crucial role in preserving rare and valuable genetic resources of native forest trees, supporting the conservation of both plant and animal species As a vital area for scientific research, Ba Vi National Park helps protect the region's unique biodiversity and ecological heritage.
Ba Vi Forest boasts a highly diverse and abundant ecosystem, with Vietnamese botanists estimating around 2,000 plant species, including tropical and subtropical varieties Currently, 812 vascular plant species across 88 plant families have been documented, featuring rare and valuable woods such as Chukrasiatabularis, Nageiafleuryi, and Madhcapasquieri Notably, Calocedrusmacrolepis and Taxuswallichiana are two critically protected species listed in the "Vietnam Red Book." The forest also supports a rich animal fauna, with 45 mammal species, 115 bird species, 61 reptile species, and 27 amphibian species, highlighting its status as a rare and precious protected habitat (Minh Hue, 2019).
3.1.2 Current situation of population and humanities resources
The district comprises 31 administrative units, including Tay Dang town and 30 communes such as Ba Trai, Ba Vi, Cam Thuong, Cam Linh, Co Do, Chau Son, Chu Minh, Dong Quang, Dong Thai, Khanh Thuong, Minh Chau, Minh Quang, Phong Van, Phu Cuong, Phu Chau, Phu Dong, Phu Phuong, Phu Son, Son Da, Tan Hong, Tan Linh, Tien Phong, Tong Bat, Thai Hoa, Thuan My, Thuy An, Van Thang, Van Hoa, Vat Lai, and Yen Bai As of 2018, the total population of the district was approximately [insert population figure], reflecting its diverse administrative and community structure.
267.300 people (including 3 ethnic groups: Kinh, Muong, and Dao) (Nguyen Viet Giao- Deputy Head of Culture and Information Division of Ba Vi District)
Ba Vi is recognized for its significant potential in tourism development, but challenges such as its vast area and varied local educational levels hinder its progress Mountainous communes face ongoing difficulties with transportation and social infrastructure, which impact overall tourism growth The lack of comprehensive infrastructure investment has led to fragmented and deteriorating facilities over the years, further limiting the area's tourism potential These infrastructural challenges significantly affect Ba Vi's capacity to develop a sustainable and thriving tourism industry.
Methodology
3.2.1 Process of implementing the topic
From July 2019 to September 2019, a comprehensive three-month research and development process was undertaken to establish environmental criteria and indicators for sustainable tourism This process involved several key stages, ensuring the effective creation of a robust framework to promote eco-friendly tourism practices The development of these criteria aims to guide stakeholders in implementing sustainable tourism strategies that minimize environmental impact while enhancing visitor experiences.
Figure 2: The thesis’s analysis framework
(Sources: Nguyen Thi Thanh An, 2019)
The thesis deployed through 2 states:
State 1: An overview of the results of the proposed state of environmental criteria and indicators in monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism
State 2: The stage of forming a group of experts, then through two rounds of interviews including sending questionnaires and analyze the results, the results of state 2 are the set of criteria and indicators before test
The research states will be applied the following analysis and data collection methods:
3.2.2 Methods of general information collection
-Desk Study: This method is used to carry out an overview of research related to the topic, find information about the study area, learn analytical
Research theories on tourism and sustainable development
Researching works in the country and the world on generating environmental criteria and indicators
Draft criteria and indicators for monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism for round 1
Set of criteria and indicators of sustainable tourism assessment for round 2
− Homogeneous testing of expert groups
− Analyzing the reliability of the scale by Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient
− Analyzing reliability when using mean assessed by ICC
− Select criteria based on average statistical values
State 2 techniques, discuss research issues and present research reports, and especially applying previous studies on the environment in sustainable tourism development in countries around the world from which to inherit and adjust to suit practical conditions in the study area
Expert consultation is a crucial method for effectively implementing the topic across various states It involves selecting appropriate research methods, developing comprehensive evaluation criteria, and gathering expert opinions on the significance of each criterion This approach ensures informed decision-making and enhances the accuracy and reliability of the evaluation process.
The interview method using questionnaires involves testing and evaluating the developed criteria with key stakeholders, including environmental and tourism officials from Ba Vi District, Ba Vi National Park staff, and local tourism businesses This process allows the research team to review, adjust, and refine the evaluation criteria to ensure accuracy and relevance Implementing this method ensures that the assessment is based on expert insights and practical feedback, enhancing the reliability of the research findings.
The Delphi method is a recognized qualitative technique for predicting future events by gathering and refining expert opinions It is based on the principle that a group of experts provides more accurate insights than a single individual when precise knowledge is lacking This long-term forecasting approach facilitates the development of targeted indicators through technical research and consensus-building Widely used for creating compelling perspectives and ideas, the Delphi technique is an effective tool for achieving expert consensus across various fields.
The Delphi method is designed to gather expert insights and facilitate consensus through multiple rounds of questionnaires Selecting knowledgeable experts carefully is crucial, as their anonymous feedback after each round helps refine the criteria, with some being removed or added based on collective input This iterative process continues until stable results are achieved, determined by mean and median analyses, ensuring reliable and well-rounded conclusions (Le Chi Cong, 2015).
The Delphi method is a reliable and problem-solving qualitative research technique that enables the systematic collection of expert reviews, facilitating informed decision-making and consensus-building across various levels According to Murry and Hammors (1995), this method is characterized by four key features that ensure its effectiveness in gathering expert insights and reaching group agreement.
- Hiding names of expert group members
- The process of interaction takes place through circles allowing experts to change their point of view
- Feedback controlling: Inform participants about the views of other members and provide an opportunity for the expert team to clarify or change the view
- Feedback results of the group will be processed statistically: The results will allow quantitative analysis and interpretation of data
The Delphi method emphasizes the importance of selecting experts based on careful criteria rather than random methods, ensuring the expert group is composed of individuals with relevant experience and expertise in appropriate research fields.
When selecting experts, four key criteria are considered: their knowledge and experience in relevant research areas, their skills and willingness to participate, sufficient availability to contribute, and effective communication skills While good communication is important, it is less prioritized in expert selection since communication will primarily occur through questionnaires The target expert groups include professionals in tourism, community management, ecology, and resource management, each with a minimum of three years of experience Based on these criteria, a group of 13 experts was assembled for the initial round, comprising five staff members from Ba Vi Center for Ecotourism Service and Environmental Education, five environmental officers from Ao Vua Joint Stock Company, and three environmental officers from Dam Long Tourism Company, all with at least three years of relevant experience.
The Delphi method involves two rounds of questionnaires to gather expert insights Invitations and questionnaires are distributed to specialists in predefined fields, collecting their personal information and work experience Experts are asked to evaluate various indicators, ensuring a systematic and iterative process to achieve consensus.
5 point Likert scale, in which:
3: The ability to rate is not high
5: The ability to rate is very high
Round 1: Use an open-close questionnaire in which each expert will list the criteria and indicators Experts (13 experts) from different fields of study will be required to present the extent to which they agree with a specific indicator related to the issue given by a value that varies from 1 to 5 If experts give value ≤ 3, they will be asked to give their opinion on why such criteria are equal to 3, and at the end of the questionnaire, there will be an open table for experts to supplement the criteria that they consider necessary to evaluate sustainable ecotourism
The first-round results will be analyzed and compiled into a questionnaire for the second round This refined questionnaire will eliminate certain criteria and indicators while incorporating expert-suggested indicators to ensure a more targeted and effective assessment process.
Round 2: The analyzed questionnaire distributed to all experts- The expert group participated in round 1 Only nine out of thirteen experts responded within round 2 The goal of round 2 is to use the questionnaire to reach agreement or stability of the experts Once a consensus or stability has been reached, the Delphi research process will be completed The Delphi method ends if any of these situations occur If all questions in the questionnaire are either accepted or discarded, the mean is higher than 3.5
3.2.3.3 Assessing the agreement of the criteria
The evaluation of consensus criteria is based on three key measurement parameters: a median score of 4 or higher, an interquartile range of 1 or less, and a standard deviation below 1 on a 5-point Likert scale These indicators collectively ensure a high level of agreement among respondents, confirming reliable and consistent results Utilizing these criteria helps in accurately assessing the degree of consensus within the data set, aligning with best practices for statistical analysis.
RESULTS
Current situation of tourism development in Ba Vi District
Ba Vi is one of two prominent eco-tourism destinations of Hanoi Capital
Ba Vi boasts the renowned Ba Vi National Park, one of six parks in Vietnam distinguished by its high biodiversity and surrounded by a system of rivers and lakes The area features stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, hills, forests, waterfalls, streams, rivers, and lakes, making it a premier destination for nature lovers Popular scenic spots such as Ho Ha enhance the region’s appeal, attracting visitors eager to explore its magnificent waterfalls, lush jungles, and expansive grass fields Ba Vi is also famous for its tourist resorts like Khoang Xanh and Suoi Tien (the Fairy Stream), offering a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure amid pristine nature.
Ao Vua (King Pond), and the Tan Da spa resort (Bui Thi Minh Nguyet, 2012)
According to the statistics, visitors to Ba Vi are increasing day by day, as shown in the table below:
Table 1 The number of tourists in 2016-2018 in Ba Vi District
(Source: Cultural and Information Department of Ba Vi District, 2019)
Ba Vi District has actively invested in infrastructure development and promoted diverse ecotourism, spiritual culture, and community-based activities, leveraging its numerous advantages As a result, the district has seen a significant increase in the number of visitors in recent years, highlighting its growing popularity as a prominent tourism destination.
Ba Vi National Park has experienced a steady increase in tourism, with visitor numbers rising from 2.6 million in 2016 to approximately 2.67 million in 2017 Correspondingly, tourism revenue grew from 260 billion VND in 2016 to 276 billion VND in 2017, representing a 4% growth year-over-year This upward trend highlights the growing popularity of Ba Vi as a leading tourist destination and its significant contribution to the local economy.
In 2018, Ba Vi attracted 2.83 million visitors, generating a tourism revenue of 336 billion VND, significantly boosting the local economy The development of tourism has created stable employment opportunities for thousands of workers and increased incomes for residents, especially in the seven mountainous communes of Ba Vi District Despite a steady annual increase in tourists, tourism activities remain largely spontaneous and primarily cater to domestic visitors Most travelers visit Ba Vi for day trips and organize their trips independently, highlighting the need for further development of organized tourism services.
Ba Vi District has successfully attracted 15 community-based and ecotourism investors, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable tourism development Deputy Chairman Do Manh Hung emphasizes that the district is actively creating optimal conditions to support and further promote these investments, positioning Ba Vi as an emerging destination for eco-friendly and community-focused tourism.
Table 2: List of tourism business in Ba Vi District, Hanoi
No Name of Tourism business Address Director Email
Company Tan Linh Nguyen Manh
2 Dam Long Tourism Cam Linh Nguyen Manh
Van Hoa Pham Quang Loi Dulichkhoangxanh@gmail.co m
Company Van Hoa Ta Ngoc My Sales@tandasparesort.com.vn
Agency Tan Linh Banh Anh Tuan Hotiensabv@gmail.com
7 Ba Vi Resort Tan Linh Vice Director:
Do Huu The vqgbavi@gmail.com
Hostel Cam Linh Vu ManhVuong Nhanghisuoihai@congdoanha noi.gov.vn
Cao Son Travel services Trading
Stock Company Van Hoa Le Trung Tuan
11 Ba Vi Homestead Van Hoa Ngo KieuOanh Trangtraidongque@gmail.com
13 Detrang Farm Tan Linh Do Hong Khanh detrangfarm@gmail.com
14 O2garden hotel Cam Linh Sales@O2gardenhotel.com.vn
15 HaNoi Paragon Hill Van Hoa Nguyen Tien
(Source: Cultural and Information Department of Ba Vi District, 2019)
4.1.2 The main types of Ba Vi Tourism
Ba Vi offers a stunning natural landscape, rich with rivers, streams, mountains, and forests that support a diverse and vibrant ecosystem perfect for eco-tourism development The area is renowned for its ecological significance, including Ba Vi National Park and nearby attractions such as Suoi Hai Lake Popular tourist destinations around Ba Vi Mountain include Khoang Xanh Suoi Tien, Ao Vua, Thac Da, Thien Son Thac Nga, Dam Long - Bang Ta, Doi Co - Ngoc Nhim Tan Da Resort, and Thuan My hot mineral water, making it an ideal location for sightseeing, research, and ecological exploration.
Ba Vi District possesses significant potential for developing leisure tourism, positioning it as a key industry that can generate substantial economic benefits locally and nationally Its unique natural environment provides the perfect foundation for renowned resorts such as Tan Da, Ba Vi, Family, Yen Bai, Top Hill, Ao Vua, Khoang Xanh - Suoi Tien, and Dam Long, all celebrated for their stunning scenery, fresh air, diverse ecosystems, and stable, cool climate year-round with an average temperature of 23.4°C Additionally, the district’s hot mineral water source in Tan Vien, known for its therapeutic and beautifying properties, offers a valuable opportunity to develop combined leisure and medical tourism, further boosting its appeal.
Ba Vi District People's Committee, led by Chairman Mr Bach Cong Tien, emphasizes sustainable tourism development that enhances ethnic minorities' livelihoods in Ba Vi's mountainous communes The district is implementing effective tourism models, including pilot community-based tourism linked with local agricultural activities, to foster direct community participation These initiatives encourage households and groups to engage in tourism services such as homestays—examples include Ba Vi Homestead, Lai Farm Ba Vi, and Family Homestay—aiming to replicate successful models and promote sustainable economic growth through tourism.
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam by visiting historical relics, trade villages, and festive tourism sites The complex of Thuong Temple, Trung Temple, and Ha Temple on Tan Vien Mountain is a popular destination for cultural, spiritual, and national identity tourism These attractions offer travelers an immersive experience into ancient Vietnamese cultural values and ethnic roots, making them ideal for those seeking meaningful and educational travel experiences.
4.1.3 Challenges for tourism development of Ba Vi District
Recent years have shown positive growth in tourism in Ba Vi District, driven by efforts to expand spiritual, ecotourism, and leisure activities linked with traditional festivals The District People's Committee has coordinated with local businesses to organize cultural tours to communal houses, temples, and pagodas during festivals and major holidays, aiming to attract more visitors However, challenges such as unsustainable development, limited planning of tourism potential, and environmental concerns remain Increased tourist density has led to risks of pollution from waste and wastewater, with many businesses relying heavily on natural resources, causing ecological degradation There is also insufficient awareness among tourists about preserving the natural landscape, and policies to strengthen environmental protection are lacking The limitations are mainly due to inadequate human resources, infrastructure, promotion strategies, and underdeveloped conservation of monuments and landscapes.
Generating environmental criteria and indicators in monitoring and
Based on the results of fieldwork, and reference documents as Assessment of sustainable tourism development: Community-based tourism in Lac Village
Based on Hung Nguyen's 2018 guidebook on indicators of sustainable development for tourism destinations, I have developed a comprehensive set of environmental criteria and indicators tailored for sustainable tourism development in Ba Vi District This framework includes seven key criteria encompassing a total of 44 specific indicators, aimed at promoting environmentally responsible tourism practices and ensuring long-term ecological sustainability in the region.
Table 3: Recommended criteria and indicators for consultation with experts on sustainable tourism monitoring and evaluation in Ba Vi District,
1 Treatment of wastewater from tourism activities
1.1 To organize the treatment of wastewater in the tourist business reaches the standards in TCVN 5945-1995 before discharging it into the environment
1.2 The volume of wastewater generated by tourism activities in Ba Vi District (m 3 /year)
1.3 Percentage of wastewater from tourism resorts that are treated
1.4 Percentage of tourism facilities that have a wastewater treatment system (suitable)
1.5 A number of pollution events reported each year (in months) in the receiving waters
2 Management of solid waste from tourism activities 2.1
Total amount of waste generated in Ba Vi District (tons/person/year) due to tourism activities
Organizing the collection of waste in tourist business reach standards of TCVN 5945-1995 before discharging into the environment
2.3 Having a waste collection system on average or there is at least 01 garbage bin with a lid over 300m along the internal roads
2.4 There is an average of at least 01 garbage collection area of the tourist area
2.5 There are measures to increase waste collection when at the time of travel
2.6 Use specialized high-tech support tools (using chemicals allowed to treat pollution, waste treatment, etc.) in appropriate areas
Having a separate waste treatment system in the tourist area or having means of transporting garbage to the local garbage disposal area with a frequency of 1 time/day
2.8 A number of specialized staff or plurality staff responsible for the waste management of the tourist areas
2.9 The policy encourages the purchasing, usage, and consumption of environmentally friendly materials, goods
3 Management of air pollution from tourism activities 3.1 Source of emissions
3.2 The number of days exceeds the standard
3.3 Emissions from passenger vehicles: CO, SO2, Pb (m/l)
3.4 Percentage of respiratory problems for 1 year (locals and tourists)
3.5 Number of warnings related to air pollution in Ba Vi District in major publications and guidebooks
3.6 Using tourist vehicles must meet the environmental protection requirements prescribed in the Minister of Transport's Decision No 4134/2001 / QD-BGTVT on December 5, 2001, about technical safety standards and environmental protection of road vehicles and relevant legal documents
4 Controlling the noise from tourist activities 4.1 Noise level in a tourist area is calculated in decibels (dBA)
4.2 Noise from passenger vehicles (based on dBA)
4.3 Number of complaints received in 1 year
4.4 Enterprises shall apply the regulations on coordination in the management of noise and noise in cultural activities and cultural services
5 Management of visual impact of facilities and infrastructure
5.1 The total length of a travel destination
5.2 Number and size of travel signs
5.3 Quality in watching the night sky (in natural areas)
5.4 The number of standard public toilets serving tourists in functional areas and major attractions
5.5 The density of buildings in the resort per hectare
5.6 Percentage of tourism facilities and infrastructure that is appropriate or coordinated with the local culture
5.7 Percentage of locations removed for tourism development
5.8 The number of indigenous trees removed for tourism development
6 Conserving biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural landscapes
The regulation of purchasing, selling, and utilizing rare and precious animals and plants is outlined in Decree No 18/HĐBT dated January 17, 1992, which lists rare forest species and establishes management and protection regimes Additionally, Government Decree No 48/2002/NĐ-CP, issued on April 22, 2002, amends and supplements this list, extending protections to wild plants and animals used for ornamental purposes, food, medicine, or souvenirs These laws collectively ensure the conservation of endangered species and regulate their trade to prevent illegal exploitation.
Illegal transport of rare and precious animals and plants prescribed in Decree
According to No 18/HDBT dated January 17, 1992, issued by the Council of Ministers, a list of rare and precious forest plants and animals has been established to ensure their protection The decree outlines specific management and conservation regimes aimed at preserving these endangered species Additionally, Government Decree No 48/2002/NĐ-CP issued in April reinforces regulations for the effective management and protection of rare forest flora and fauna, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding biodiversity These legal frameworks collectively strengthen conservation efforts and promote sustainable management of Vietnam’s valuable forest ecosystems.
22, 2002 about amending and supplementing the list of rare and precious wildlife and plants promulgated together with Decree No 18/HĐBT of January
17, 1992 of the Council of Ministers defining the list of rare and precious forest plants and animals and the management and protection regime
6.3 A number of rare and precious animal species exploited in 1 year
6.4 A number of rare and precious animal species exploited in 1 year
6.5 Enterprises supporting biodiversity conservation include activities supporting special-use forests with high biodiversity value
Interactions with wild animals should be conducted responsibly to prevent harm to wildlife communities and natural ecosystems Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in conservation efforts by helping injured or displaced animals recover and reintegrate into their natural habitats Responsible engagement with wildlife supports the preservation of biodiversity and promotes sustainable coexistence with nature.
7.1 A number and type of measures to engage local people in conservation activities (meetings, programs, etc.)
7.2 Percentage of local people who are actively involved in conservation activities
7.3 Percentage of tourism managers who have environmental training activities
7.4 Percentage of the tour and hotel operators that have environmental policies and strategies
7.5 Percentage of visitors who understand the importance of the conservation value of a tourist area
7.6 Attitudes and behaviors of tourists and local communities towards environmental conservation activities
A comprehensive questionnaire comprising 7 criteria and 44 indicators will be distributed to 15 experts for evaluation They will assess each requirement using a 5-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) For criteria scoring 3 or below, an explanation section will be provided to gather detailed feedback and insights.
Research experts in Ba Vi District are staff and officials specializing in environment and tourism within the tourist area These selected professionals have over two years of experience, ensuring their expertise in sustainable tourism development and environmental management Their insights are crucial for promoting eco-friendly practices and preserving the natural beauty of Ba Vi District's tourist destinations.
Fifteen experts were invited to participate in the Delphi process, but only
Seventeen participants, representing 86.67% of those involved in the initial assessment, agreed on the criteria Experts evaluated the criteria indicators using a 1-5 scale, with the summarized results provided in the accompanying table, ensuring a comprehensive and expert-driven evaluation process.
In this table, the average column (TB) is the average score of 13 experts, the TV is the median, S is the standard deviation and IQR is the Interquartile Range
Table 4: Statistical description of evaluation results of experts after round 1
NO MIN MAX TB TV S IQR
Criteria 1: Treatment of wastewater from tourism activities
Criteria 2: Management of solid waste from tourism activities
Criteria 3: Management of air pollution from tourism activities
Criteria 4: Controlling the noise from tourist activities
Criteria 5: Management of visual impact of facilities and infrastructure
Criteria 6: Conserving biodiversity, ecosystems and natural landscapes
Table 4.5 presents the evaluation statistics of an expert group assessing various criteria and environmental indicators for sustainable tourism The experts' mean scores for these indicators generally range from 2.0 to 4.61, indicating moderate evaluations, with only a few exceptions in Criterion 1 Additionally, the errors associated with the criteria are less than 1 in most cases, suggesting reasonable consistency and reliability in the assessments.
To test the consistency between experts in evaluating 7 criteria and 44 indicators, the research team used Friedman test for K related sample (K= 13)
Calculation results are as follows:
Table 5: Test results by Friedman test round 1
Calculated results show that there is a difference between the scoring methods of experts in round 1 This means that experts from different fields will assess the standards differently
To assess the reliability of the expert scoring method, the scale's internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, ensuring uniformity among the scale's elements and the overall scale Additionally, the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was employed to measure the reliability of the average scores provided by experts for each criterion The evaluation involved 13 experts (N = 13) assessing 44 cases, with the results summarized in the accompanying table.
Table 6: Calculation results of Cronbach’s Alpha in round 1
Cronbach's Alpha Cronbach'sAlpha Based on Standardized
The methodology section highlights that Cronbach's Alpha value for column 1 is used to assess the appropriateness of the Likert scale With a calculated Alpha of 0.96, close to 0.97, it indicates that the measurement scale is highly reliable Since only a 5-point scale was used in the evaluation, there was no need to reference the value in column 2 Overall, the results demonstrate that the measurement scale is very good and suitable for the study.
So to give the final result is the average score for the experts to ensure reliability when using the assessment or not, the research team used Intraclass
Correlation Coefficient to evaluate and conclude Results are shown in the following table:
Table 7: Calculation results of Intraclass Correlation Coefficient in round 1
95% Confidence Interval F Test with True Value 0 Lower
Bound Value df1 df2 Sig
Using a two-dimensional mixing model, the calculation type is the average value of experts (Average Measures) to measure the absolute agreement
The calculation results indicate that the average Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) is 0.96, exceeding the threshold of 0.75, which suggests very high reliability The 95% Confidence Interval for the ICC ranges from 0.95 to 0.98, further confirming excellent consistency Additionally, the significance values (Sig) are below 0.05, indicating the results are statistically significant and demonstrate robust reliability.
Based on statistical analysis and test results of the draft environmental criteria and indicators for monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism, it is concluded that there is no uniform scoring among 13 experts However, the scoring scale's reliability and the average expert assessment are considered highly valid and consistent, indicating the robustness of the evaluation process.
In the second round of selection, criteria were evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale, applying both domestic and international standards Indicators with a mean score below 4, standard deviation greater than 1, or interquartile range (IQR) exceeding 1 were excluded, resulting in 30 indicators being removed from a total of 7 criteria Most exclusions were due to a mean below 4 combined with an IQR greater than 1 or 2 Notably, indicators 1.1 and 2.2 will be retained but replaced with alternative measurement standards, while some other indicators will be regenerated based on expert feedback and suggestions A summary table details the indicators eliminated after the first round.
Table 8: A summary of criteria removed after round 1
Environmental indicators with values ≤ 3 are considered difficult to measure, define, and potentially unfeasible, according to expert assessments A summarized table highlights the key reasons for eliminating these indicators, emphasizing the challenges associated with their evaluation and implementation.
Table 9: A summary of some general ideas for indicators removed after round 1
With the working address, we should add an "administrative unit" For criteria 1, 2 and 4, it is necessary to provide additional criteria on the source
2 1.2 It is difficult to know exactly the amount of wastewater generated by tourism activities across the district
4 1.4 The current data collection is not complete and accurate yet Specialized departments are needed to review the whole district
CONCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS OF THE TOPIC
5.1 General conclusions and contributions to the topic
This study establishes environmental criteria and indicators for monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District, Hanoi, Vietnam The research aims to identify appropriate criteria tailored to the local context, providing a comprehensive framework for sustainable tourism development The findings highlight key environmental indicators essential for evaluating tourism's impact on the area's natural resources and ecological balance Ultimately, the study offers valuable insights and practical recommendations to promote environmentally responsible tourism practices in Ba Vi District.
To develop comprehensive criteria and indicators, I employed the Delphi method combined with statistical evaluation, involving an interdisciplinary panel of 13 experts in the first round and 9 in the second Throughout the evaluation process, the Friedman non-parametric test was used to assess the consistency of expert scoring across rounds The reliability of the 5-point Likert scale was verified using Cronbach's Alpha, ensuring internal consistency among expert ratings Additionally, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) with a 2-dimensional mixed model was applied to evaluate the absolute agreement and reliability of the average evaluation scores, confirming the robustness of the assessment process.
A set of 7 criteria and 44 indicators was developed and evaluated by 13 reviewers, leading to the removal of 30 indicators based on criteria such as mean scores below 4, standard deviation over 1, and IQR over 1 Key indicators like 1.1 and 2.2 were retained but replaced with alternative measurement standards, while some were regenerated based on expert feedback In the second round, the criteria remained unchanged, but the total number of indicators was reduced to 29, with some new ones added Thirteen experts from the first round were invited to participate again, but only nine responded, further refining the evaluation process.
Contributions of this study include:
This article presents an integrated approach to developing a comprehensive set of criteria and environmental indicators for sustainable tourism development It leverages an extensive review of international research to inform the selection process The evaluation method prioritizes reliability by applying rigorous standards and statistical analysis to identify the most accurate and effective indicators, ensuring a robust framework for sustainable tourism growth.
This study introduces a comprehensive set of environmental criteria and indicators for monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism activities in Ba Vi District, offering a new perspective on eco-friendly development in the region These criteria are designed to be adaptable and can be directly applied or modified to meet future tourism management needs, supporting sustainable growth and environmental preservation.
Besides practical contributions, I think this topic still has some limitations as follows:
The criteria and indicators are developed based on existing research but are inherently subjective, influenced by personal feelings and experts' attitudes, which can impact survey outcomes and sustainability evaluations To enhance accuracy, future studies should involve interdisciplinary teams in question formulation and conduct workshops with experts to clarify research objectives and content prior to survey implementation, ensuring more reliable and comprehensive results.
The thesis development period was short, which limited testing to initial assessments without coverage of Ba Vi National Park, tourist areas, or the entire Ba Vi District Consequently, more time is needed to thoroughly evaluate the criteria, balancing careful analysis with project deadlines and overall thesis progress.
1 Ha Phuong (2018), Tourist attractions in Ba Vi, Ba Vi tourist information website
2 Trung Dung (2017), The relationship between the environment and tourism development, Environment Magazine
3 Ph.D Nguyen Thi Thanh An (2019), Generating criteria and indicators in monitoring sustainable ecotourism in the DakNong by the Delphi method, 4, 36–
4 Indicators of Sustainable Development for Tourism Destinations: A guidebook (2004) The international working group on indicators of sustainable tourism to the environment committee Madrid, Spain: World Tourism Organization, 117–185
5 Haruna Danladi Musa, Mohd Rusli Yacoba*, Ahmad Makmom Abdullahb, Mohd Yusoff Ishaka (2015), Delphi method of developing environmental well- being indicators for the evaluation of urban sustainability in Malaysia, Procedia
6 Dao Thi Bich Nguyet (2012), The master’s thesis:Tourism development in NhaTrang (KhanhHoa) towards sustainable development, 3, 105–120
7 Tran Thi Huong, Nguyen Thi Bich Hao, Nguyen Dac Manh, Luu Quang Vinh, Nguyen Hai Ha, Phung Thi Tuyen, Ta Tuyet Nga, Bui Thi Sang (2018),
Assessing the impact of ecotourism activities on the natural environment and socio in Ban Lac, Chien Chau commune, Mai Chau District, HoaBinh Province,
8 Le Chi Cong (2015), Generating criteria for evaluating sustainable tourism:
A study site in Nha Trang City, 59
9 Hung Nguyen (2018), Assessment of sustainable tourism development: Community-based tourism in Lac Village, 49–55
10 Phuong Van (2018), Arousing the potential of Ba Vi tourism, Industry and
11 Ha Thi Lan Phuong (2012), The graduated thesis: Protecting the natural environment in tourism activities of Ha Long Bay, QuangNinh, University of
12 Ho Ha (2018), Creating favorable conditions for tourism Ba Vi, Economic and Urban newspaper
13 Nguyen Thi Quynh Trang (2017), Monuments and landscapes of Ba Vi district, Hanoi city with current tourism development, Hanoi University Of
14 Bui Thi Minh Nguyet (2012), Solutions for sustainable eco-tourism development in Ba Vi National Park, Journal of Forestry Science and
15 Minh Hue (2019), Sustainable development of Ba Vi forest: Protecting
"green lungs" for the capital, Hanoi Portal
Appendix 1: Questionnaire for experts in round 1
GENERATING ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA AND INDICATORS IN MONITORING AND ASSESSING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN
BA VI DISTRICT, HANOI, VIETNAM
All information in this Questionnaire will only be used for statistical and research purposes I undertake not to disclose the information that you provide
Please tick on one option or fill out the information in accordance with Mr./Ms
5 E-mail: You are working at:
1 Which fieldss did you contribute to the development of criteria and criteria to assess the impact of tourism activities?
Usually Sometime Seldom Never No information
The questionnaire utilizes a 5-point Likert scale, where 1 indicates complete incapability of rating and 5 represents a very high rating This scale is essential for accurately evaluating environmental criteria and indicators in the monitoring and assessment of sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District Implementing these assessments plays a crucial role in informing effective decision-making and resource management strategies, ensuring the development of sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Please indicate your level of agreement with the environmental criteria and indicators used to monitor and assess sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District, ranking from 1 to 5 with increasing levels of agreement Kindly tick the box corresponding to your agreement level.
The ability to rating is not high
The ability to rating is very high
NO INDICATORS TB TV S IQR
Criteria 1: Treatment of wastewater from tourism activities
To organize the treatment of wastewater in tourist businessreach the standards in TCVN
5945-1995 before discharging it into the environment
The volume of wastewater generated by tourism activities in Ba Vi District (m3 / year)
1.3 Percentage of wastewater from tourism resorts that are treated
Percentage of tourism facilities that have a wastewater treatment system (suitable)
A number of pollution events reported each year (in months) in the receiving waters
Criteria 2: Management of solid waste from tourism activities
The total amount of waste generated in Ba Vi district (tons / person / year) due to tourism activities
Organizing the collection of waste in tourist business reach standards of TCVN 5945-
1995 before discharging into the environment
Having a waste collection system on average or there is at least 01 garbage bin with a lid over 300m along the internal roads
There is an average of at least 01 garbage collection area of the tourism resort
There are measures to increase waste collection when at the time of travel
Use specialized high-tech support tools
(using chemicals allowed to treat pollution, waste treatment, etc.) in appropriate areas
2.7 Having a separate waste treatment system in the tourist area or having means of transporting garbage to the local garbage disposal area with the frequency of 1 time / day
A number of specialized staffor plurality staff responsible for waste management of tourist resort
The policy encourages the purchasing, usage and consumption of environmentally friendly materials, goods
Criteria 3: Management of air pollution from tourism activities
3.2 The number of days exceeds the standard
3.3 Emissions from passenger vehicles: CO,
3.4 Percentage of respiratory problems for 1 year
A number of warnings related to air pollution in Ba Vi District in major publications and guidebooks
Using tourist vehycles must meet the environmental protection requirements prescribed in the Minister of Transport's
Decision No 4134/2001/QD-BGTVT on
December 5, 2001 about technical safety standards and environmental protection of road vehicles and relevant legal documents
Criteria 4: Controlling the noise from tourist activities
4.1 The noise level in a tourist resortis calculated in decibels (dBA)
4.2 The noise from passenger vehicles (based on dBA)
4.3 A number of complaints received in 1 year
Enterprises shall apply the regulations on coordination in the management of noise and noise in cultural activities and cultural services
Criteria 5: Management of visual impact of facilities and infrastructure
5.1 The total length of a travel destination
5.2 A number and size of travel signs
5.3 Quality in watching the night sky (in natural areas)
5.4 The number of standard public toilets serving tourists in functional areas and major attractions
5.5 The density of buildings in the resort per hectare
Percentage of tourism facilities and infrastructure that is appropriate or coordinated with the local culture
5.7 Percentage of locations removed for tourism development
5.8 The number of indigenous trees removed for tourism development
Criteria 6: Conserving biodiversity, ecosystems and natural landscapes
The situation of purchase, sale and use of rare and precious animals and plants prescribed in Decree No 18/HĐBT of
January 17, 1992 of the Council of Ministers prescribing the List of rare and precious forest plants and animals and the regime of management, protection and the
Government's Decree No 48/2002/NĐ-CP of
April 22, 2002 about amending and supplementing the List of rare and precious wild plants and animals, promulgated together with the Decree No 18/HĐBT of
On January 17, 1992, the Council of Ministers issued a decree establishing a list of rare and precious forest plants and animals, along with regulations for their management, protection, and the use of their products for ornamental purposes, food, medicine, or souvenirs.
Illegal transport of rare and precious animals and plants prescribed in Decree No
18/HDBT of January 17, 1992 of the Council of Ministers prescribing the List of rare and precious forest plants and animals and the management and prtection regime and the
Government's Decree No 48/2002/NĐ-CP of
April 22, 2002 about amending and supplementing the List of rare and precious wildlife and plants promulgated together with
Decree No 18/HĐBT of January 17, 1992 of the Council of Ministers defining the list of rare and precious forest plants and animals and the management and protection regime
6.3 A number of rare and precious animal species exploited in 1 year
6.4 A number of rare and precious animal species exploited in 1 year
Enterprises supporting biodiversity conservation include activities supporting special-use forests with high biodiversity value
Interactions with wild animals should avoid causing harm to wildlife communities and natural ecosystems Rehabilitation plays a vital role in conservation by restoring and supporting affected wildlife, serving as an effective measure to mitigate negative impacts and promote the preservation of biodiversity.
A number and type of measures to engage local people in conservation activities
7.2 Percentage of local people who are actively involved in conservation activities
7.3 Percentage of tourism managers who have environmental training activities
7.4 Percentage of tour operators and hotels that have environmental policies and strategies
Percentage of visitors who understand the importance of the conservation value of a tourist resort
7.6 Attitudes and behaviors of tourists and local communities towards environmental conservation activities
Appendix 2: Questionnaire for experts in round 2
QUESTIONNAIR FOR EXPERTS GENERATING ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA AND INDICATORS IN MONITORING AND ASSESSING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN
BA VI DISTRICT, HANOI, VIETNAM
All information in this Questionnaire will only be used for statistical and research purposes I undertake not to disclose the information that you provide
Please tick on one option or fill out the information in accordance with Mr./Ms
10 E-mail: You are working at:
3 Which fieldss did you contribute to the development of criteria and criteria to assess the impact of tourism activities?
Usually Sometime Seldom Never No information
The questionnaire utilizes a 5-point Likert scale, where 1 indicates complete incapability to rate and 5 represents an excellent rating Monitoring and assessing environmental criteria and indicators through this scale are crucial for evaluating sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District These insights play a vital role in developing effective decision-making plans for resource management, promoting sustainable tourism development in the region.
Please indicate your level of agreement with the environmental criteria and indicators for monitoring and assessing sustainable tourism in Ba Vi District, ranking from 1 to 5 in order of increasing agreement, and mark the box accordingly.
The ability to rating is not high
The ability to rating is very high
NO INDICATOR TB TV S IQR
Criteria 1: Treatment of wastewater from tourism activities
Wastewater is treated at centralized wastewater treatment system or septic tanks, manholes
Wastewater after being treated up to QCVN
Wastewater discharged into water sources must meet quality standards before being released into the environment to protect water quality Tourist areas with swimming pools, herbal baths, and other recreational facilities should ensure their wastewater complies with QCTHNHN (national technical regulation on environmental hygiene) standards Proper treatment and adherence to regulations are essential to prevent environmental pollution and ensure the safety of water resources.
Criteria 2: Management of solid waste from tourism activities
2.2 There is a classification between ordinary solid waste and hazardous solid waste
The total amount of waste generated in each tourist area (tons / person / year) due to tourism activities
The solid waste generated from the tourism area will be collected to the solid waste storage area complies with Decree
38/2015/ND-CP on management of waste and discarded materials; Decision No
16/2013/QD-UBND of Hanoi People's
Committee promulgating the regulation on management of ordinary solid waste in Hanoi city
The hazardous solid waste generated at the tourist area will be collected to hazardous solid waste storage area which complies with
Circular No 36/2015/TT-BTNMT on management of hazardous waste
Having a waste collection system, with the number and distance of garbage bins suitable to the characteristics and area of the tourist area
Having a separate waste treatment system in the tourist area or having means of transporting garbage to the local garbage disposal area with the frequency of 1 time/day
Number of specialized staff or plurality staff responsible for waste management of tourist area
Criteria 3: Management of air pollution from tourism activities
3.2 The number of days exceeds the standard
3.3 Emissions from passenger vehicles, toilets, cafeterias : CO, SO2, Pb (m/l)
Organizing the treatment of exhaust gas in tourist areas and the exhaust gas output reaches the permitted limit according to
Technical Regulation on Ambient Air Quality and QCTĐHN 01:2014/ BTNMT Hanoi
Technical Regulation on Industrial Emission of Inorganic Substances and Dusts
There are works and plans to protect the environment: greenery systems, watering roads
Criteria 4: Controlling the noise from tourist activities
4.1 The noise level in a tourist area is calculated in decibels (dBA)
The noise-generating activities at the tourist area complies with QCVN 26:2010/BTNMT
National Technical Regulation on Noise
4.3 Arranging traffic in and out reasonably
Criteria 5: Management of visual impact of facilities and infrastructure
The number of standard public toilets serving tourists in functional areas and major attractions
5.2 The density of buildings in the resort per hectare
Percentage of tourism facilities and infrastructure that is appropriate or coordinated with the local culture
Criteria 6: Conserve biodiversity, ecosystems and natural landscapes
6.1 Number of rainy days in a year and total rainfall
Exploiting forest plants and animals complies with Decree 32/2006 / ND-CP on the management of endangered, precious and rare forest plants and animals
7.1 Percentage of tour and hotel operators that have environmental policies and strategies
7.2 A number of tourism businesses have periodic Environmental Impact reports
A number of tourism businesses sanctioned for violations of regulations on protection of natural resources and environment
A number of educational activities about protecting nature, environment at local schools, and for tourists.