This module presents the Social & Cultural, Environmental, and Governance dimensions of the Observatory’s methodological framework and explains how their indicators support the monitoring of sustainable coastal and maritime tourism. It introduces the main monitoring subthemes, including quality of life, cultural heritage, environmental management, biodiversity, institutional capacity, and stakeholder participation.

The module explains that only indicators supported by reliable and regularly available data have been selected for immediate implementation, while additional indicators will be incorporated as data collection and methodological maturity improve. It then presents the methodology for representative indicators, describing their calculation, interpretation, data sources, strategic use, and limitations. These indicators measure tourism pressure, employment characteristics, cultural participation, waste management, protected areas, environmental quality, business environmental responsibility, and the existence of sustainable tourism strategies.

Throughout the module, emphasis is placed on supporting evidence-based policy, protecting natural and cultural assets, improving residents’ quality of life, strengthening governance, and promoting the long-term sustainability and resilience of tourism destinations.