ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in subsequent chapters. This chapter begins with a reference to report on tourism's importance for a Green Economy and considers the characteristics of tourism demand that make such an objective uniquely challenging. Continuing with the theme of sustainable action in tourism, the chapter argues that ethical food providers need to work collaboratively with tourism suppliers to provide a comprehensive set of sustainable food tourism experiences. The chapter addresses an equally under-researched area of study, but one currently attracting increased attention because of its inherent ethical impact: medical tourism. It examines the contemporary discussions underpinning ethical consumption in tourism from a philosophical and conceptual perspective. Specifically, this chapter theorises the politics of consumption and critique the relationship between ethics and philosophy, environmentalism and aesthetics, and explore the tension, compromise and perhaps contradictions apparent in the decision-making process for all stakeholders involved in sustainable and ethical tourism consumption.
