Synergies of sustainability, leadership and ethics in leisure, tourism and hospitality research: a dialogue with Professor Dr Elena Cavagnaro

This dialogue between Professor Dr Elena Cavagnaro and Dr Rodney Westerlaken explores the evolving landscape of leisure, tourism and hospitality (LTH) research, highlighting critical shifts in sustainability, leadership, ethics, and technology. Cavagnaro reflects on the progression from early sustainability discussions to structured regulatory frameworks, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism behaviour, and the challenge of ensuring that sustainability transcends mere corporate rhetoric. The conversation explores the role of responsible leadership in addressing climate change and promoting ethical business practices, the complexities of integrating AI and digital technologies into sustainable tourism, and the philosophical underpinnings that can inform LTH research. By bridging academic insights with practical applications, this discussion underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in fostering a more sustainable and ethically responsible hospitality and tourism industry.