Sustainable Consumption and Production in Wildlife Tourism: A Critical Review of Indian Tiger Reserves

Abstract

Wildlife tourism in India has achieved global significance, with tiger reserves emerging as central attractions. While tiger-centric tourism has contributed to conservation financing and international recognition, it has also created ecological, social, and governance challenges. This paper critically reviews the study by Gavinolla et al. (2021) through the lens of Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP), a concept integral to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 12). By applying SCP principles, the paper examines both the supply and demand dimensions of tiger reserve tourism in Madhya Pradesh, analyzes critical challenges such as over-dependence on tiger sightings, carrying capacity issues, and community exclusion, and explores pathways for more balanced and sustainable wildlife tourism. The review further extends implications for key reserves—Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Panna—and recommends strategies that balance conservation imperatives, community livelihoods, and visitor experiences.