Green Economic Benefits of Tourism Development in China: Based on Natural and Human Geographical Factors

The aim of developing sustainable tourism is to harmonize economic growth with environmental protection. This study innovatively establishes a research framework to examine the impact of tourism development (TD) on urban green economy efficiency (UGEE) through the lens of geographical factors. A slacks-based measurement model with undesirable outputs is employed to estimate UGEE. Econometric analyses reveal that TD significantly enhances UGEE, a result that remains robust under various tests. Mechanism analysis reveals that natural geographical factors mediate the relationship through the cost-effect, pollution effect, and livable and tourist-friendly effect of the development mechanism. Also, human geographical factors foster UGEE by stimulating economic vitality, optimizing industrial structure, and improving environmental protection. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that the impact of TD on UGEE varies among different geographical locations, city sizes, and city types. This study provides new theoretical insights and practical policy recommendations for understanding the role of geographical factors in the relationship between TD and UGEE, thereby promoting the development of sustainable tourism in China.