Prof. Ren-Fang Chao | Environmental Education | Best Researcher Award

Professor at College of Tourism and Hospitality, I-shou University,  Taiwan

Dr. Ren-Fang Chao, Distinguished Professor and Dean of the College of Tourism and Hospitality at I-Shou University, Taiwan, is a leading expert in tourism management, sociology, and environmental education. Committed to sustainable tourism, Dr. Chao’s research delves into pro-environmental behaviors, the impact of social norms, and community-based environmental initiatives. He actively serves in editorial capacities across several academic journals, overseeing special issues on sustainability and tourism. Through his research, academic service, and community engagement, Dr. Chao seeks to promote tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Chao earned his Ph.D. in Biology from Tunghai University, Taiwan. His academic background laid the foundation for his interdisciplinary work in tourism, blending biological insights with sociological and anthropological perspectives. This educational journey has equipped him with a robust understanding of environmental issues, which he applies to the tourism field, fostering a unique approach that integrates environmental science, community education, and sustainable tourism practices.

Experience💼

Currently the Dean of the College of Tourism and Hospitality at I-Shou University, Dr. Chao has extensive experience in both research and academic service. He has served as a guest editor for the journal Sustainability on special issues concerning climate change and COVID-19’s effects on tourism. Additionally, he is an Associate Editor for Policy and Personnel Management and sits on the editorial boards of the Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, Current Analysis on Economics & Finance, and Maritime Technology and Research. His academic experience reflects his dedication to advancing sustainable practices in tourism.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Chao received the Outstanding Reviewer Award from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2020. His dedication to research has also led to his nomination for the “Best Researcher Award,” a recognition of his impactful contributions to tourism management and environmental education. His work has not only enhanced scholarly discourse but has also provided valuable guidelines for sustainable tourism and conservation, influencing both the academic field and real-world practices.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Chao’s research focuses on sustainable tourism, with particular interest in tourism sociology, pro-environmental behavior, and environmental education. His recent studies analyze how personal and social norms drive trekkers’ environmental behaviors, extending to daily life. His work on marine conservation and experiential consumption provides theoretical insights and practical applications for sustainable tourism. He is particularly interested in how tourism can foster community engagement, non-profit coordination, and environmental awareness, contributing to sustainable community development.

Conclusion 🎓

Dr. Ren-Fang Chao’s extensive academic leadership, robust research contributions, and commitment to sustainable tourism make him a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His work not only advances theoretical understanding but also offers practical applications, benefiting both the academic community and the tourism industry. With ongoing dedication, Dr. Chao’s contributions will likely continue to shape tourism management and environmental education.