Policy and Governance in Tourism: A Perspective from the Circular Economy in Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

This article analyzes public policy applied in the tourism sector of Tabasco, Mexico, with the aim of identifying the incorporation of circular economy criteria in thirteen municipalities in the state, based on active citizen participation in planning and governmental action, rather than as mere spectators or executors of policies detached from their reality. The approach developed is qualitative, based on the analysis of literature and documents describing municipal public policy related to governance and the circular economy. A matrix with twelve indicators was later compiled to evaluate three categories. Among the findings, it was discovered that the thirteen municipal development plans do not comprehensively incorporate elements related to governance, tourism, and the circular economy. Furthermore, while there are cases where these three concepts were considered in public policy planning, it is generally concluded that governments could work in a more coordinated and coherent manner in applying these constructs to move toward a circular economy model in rural tourist destinations.