Sustainability Practices in Lebanese Wineries and their Impact on Tourism Development and Economic Growth

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine how sustainability practices adopted by Lebanese wineries influence tourism development and contribute to broader economic growth. Lebanese wineries have increasingly integrated environmental initiatives into their operations in response to both local and global challenges. Such initiatives include reducing paper waste and transform wine corks into renewable energy, reforestation initiatives, energy-efficient practices, and green architecture. A variety of sustainability practices are implemented by wineries in Lebanon; however, an investigation deems necessary to evaluate their impact. Methodologically, this study employed open-ended exploratory interviews with two groups of stakeholders: (a) winery managers and owners, and (b) tourism stakeholders and community representatives. This approach was necessary in order to investigate how winery practices enhance destination attractiveness, support community development and employment, influence Lebanon’s image as a sustainable tourism hub, and contribute to long-term economic growth while preserving environmental and cultural heritage. The findings of this study are particularly important for winery stakeholders by offering insights into strengthening competitiveness and innovation, while tourism and community stakeholders could gain a deeper understanding of how sustainability-driven wine tourism can create employment, support local economies, and enhance Lebanon’s global tourism profile.