Digital Influence and Sustainable Food Practices in Tourism: A Social Science Perspective on Responsible Consumption and Climate Action (SDG 12 and SDG 13)

Abstract

Tourist food consumption is increasingly mediated by digital technologies, particularly social media, which shape behaviors, norms, and values with profound implications for sustainability and climate action. This review examines the intersection of digital influence and sustainable food practices in tourism through a social science lens, emphasizing the relevance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 12 and 13. Drawing on theories such as the Theory of Planned Behavior, Social Norms Theory, Consumer Culture Theory, and sustainable consumption frameworks, the study analyzes how digital narratives created by influencers, tourists, and tourism businesses affect individual choices and collective behaviors. The review highlights both opportunities and risks: social media can encourage environmentally responsible, locally sourced, and low-carbon food practices, yet it can also amplify unsustainable consumption patterns, greenwashing, and social inequities in host communities. Critical stakeholders including tourism enterprises, destination organizations, content creators, tourists, and policymakers are identified as essential actors in aligning digital influence with sustainability objectives. The paper concludes by proposing a research agenda addressing longitudinal behavioral studies, algorithmic effects, and governance strategies to harness digital platforms for responsible consumption. By situating tourist food practices within broader social, cultural, and environmental contexts, this review underscores the potential of social science approaches to inform policy and practice for equitable, climate-conscious tourism.