Factors Influencing Community Leaders’ Knowledge and Skills in Managing Low-Carbon Community-based Tourism

Abstract

This research aims to: 1) explore activities and assess the level of knowledge and skills in managing low-carbon community-based tourism (LC-CBT) among community leaders; 2) examine the factors influencing the enhancement of knowledge and skills in LC-CBT management; and 3) develop a process to foster the knowledge and skills of community leaders in tourism management. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative data collection from 286 respondents and in-depth interviews with key informants in three pilot provinces: Bangkok, Nan, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The findings revealed that community leaders possessed a high level of knowledge and skills in LC-CBT, with attitudes showing the highest average scores. Significant factors influencing knowledge and skills of community leaders were political, sociology, economic aspects while demographic is the least essential factor in this case, yet still significant .01. Practical field-based training, knowledge exchange with model communities, and support from external networks, such as universities and environmental organizations, were identified as crucial mechanisms for effectively and sustainably developing community leaders' capabilities in LC-CBT. The study recommends establishing continuous training systems, creating motivation mechanisms such as leadership certification, and promoting structured collaboration among governmental, private, and community sectors to drive practical implementation of LC-CBT initiatives.