Youth Well-Being and Economic Vitality: Fostering Sustainable Development Through Green Leisure Sports

Qianqian Zhou, Yong-Zhan Zheng, Hsiao-Hsien Lin, Xue-Qi Yan, Rui Peng, I-En Tsai and Yi-Han Tseng ()
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Qianqian Zhou: College of Physical Education, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, China
Yong-Zhan Zheng: Department of Healthcare Industry Technology Development and Management, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 41170, Taiwan
Hsiao-Hsien Lin: Department of Healthcare Industry Technology Development and Management, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 41170, Taiwan
Xue-Qi Yan: School of Physical Education, Jiaying University, Meizhou 514015, China
Rui Peng: School of Physical Education, Jiaying University, Meizhou 514015, China
I-En Tsai: Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106209, Taiwan
Yi-Han Tseng: Physical Education Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shih-Chuan 1st Road, Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City 807378, Taiwan

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 22, 1-22

Abstract: This study delves into the transformative potential of low-carbon leisure education (LCLE) in promoting sustainable development within rural lake regions, focusing particularly on its impact on youth well-being and regional economic vitality. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 650 participants and conducted interviews with experts, visitors, and locals to gauge the effectiveness of LCLE initiatives. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between LCLE engagements and improvements in the leisure environment, economic development, and ecological conservation. However, the study reveals a youth welfare divide, whereby younger individuals are unable to fully benefit from LCLE programs due to gaps in environmental consciousness and accessibility. The paper proposes a holistic approach to LCLE that includes enhancing environmental awareness among youth, making participation in low-carbon leisure activities more accessible and affordable, and fostering a culture of sustainable enjoyment. The expected outcomes suggest strengthened rural economies, enriched leisure and ecological environments, and a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle for the younger population. This research underscores the importance of integrating educational initiatives into rural development strategies, thereby contributing to the knowledge economy through innovative approaches to sustainability and youth engagement in rural settings.

Keywords: green leisure sports; sustainable development; rural tourism; low carbon leisure education; youth well-being; ecological conservation; economic development; rural lake regions (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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