From Resistance to Acceptance: The Role of NIMBY Phenomena in Sustainable Urban Development and Tourism

Daniela Dvornik Perhavec and Rok Kamnik ()
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Daniela Dvornik Perhavec: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Architecture, University of Maribor, Smetanova 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Rok Kamnik: Department of Operational Construction, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Architecture, University of Maribor, Smetanova 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-29

Abstract: The role of NIMBY (“Not in My Backyard”) phenomena in sustainable urban development and tourism was analyzed, with a focus on stakeholder dynamics and implications for spatial planning. Based on an analysis of worldwide case studies, the main barriers and opportunities presented by these phenomena were identified, including the impact of project preparation time ( t p ) and benefit realization time ( t b ). A mixed methods approach was used, combining qualitative analysis of case studies with quantitative evaluation of project timelines. The results show that effective stakeholder engagement significantly reduces t p , while maximizing t b increases long-term benefits for communities and the environment. This research emphasizes the systemic interdependence of urban planning, environmental sustainability, tourism, and cultural heritage preservation, offering actionable insights for policymakers and developers. The conclusions emphasize the importance of participatory approaches to ensure equitable and sustainable urban transformation.

Keywords: NIMBY; spatial planning; sustainable urban development; sustainable tourism; maintenance; cultural heritage; tourism impact; project preparation; (negative) indirect benefit (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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