TDSI Aggregating Travel Destination Sustainability Rankings Using PCA

Abstract

This study proposes a novel method for aggregating Travel Destination Sustainability Index (TDSI) rankings using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). By weighting and averaging principal component scores derived from multiple sustainability indicators, the method yields a unified and objective ranking of global tourist destinations. The approach is demonstrated using a dataset of 136 destinations and six sustainability indices. Results highlight the value of data-driven techniques in enhancing transparency, comparability, and strategic planning in sustainable tourism. Implications for policy, destination management, and future methodological innovation are discussed.