Excess of carrying capacity and the instability of the neoliberal development model in tourist destinations

Abstract

This paper analyzes the relationship between tourism growth dynamics associated with the neoliberal development model and the exceeding of destination carrying capacity. A documentary review of academic literature and specialized documents is complemented by a comparative analysis of Barcelona, Chongqing and the Riviera Maya. The analysis considers the physical, real, effective, perceptual, social and ecological dimensions of carrying capacity in relation to deregulation, privatization, liberalization and tourism expansion. The findings indicate that pressure on destinations depends not only on visitor volume, but also on the interaction among intensity of use, consumption, infrastructure, territorial organization and management capacity. The cases reveal recurring patterns of spatial concentration, pressure on resources, socio-territorial conflicts and management responses conditioned by each context. The analysis is extended to the Cuban context, taking into account the environmental, social and economic particularities of an insular destination. Finally, the circular economy is considered as a general alternative for reducing material pressures and complementing sustainable destination management.