La tecnologia Blockchain per lo sviluppo sostenibile nell‘area Garganica: Impatti sul Turismo e sulle Attività Economiche Locali

This thesis explores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in fostering sustainable development, with a focus on its application in rural and marginal areas. Drawing on both theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, the research highlights blockchain’s capacity to enhance transparency, efficiency, and equity across diverse domains, including environmental sustainability, supply chain management, social inclusion, and rural tourism development. By leveraging blockchain’s core attributes of decentralization, immutability, and transparency, the study investigates its role as a tool for addressing systemic inefficiencies and empowering local communities. The research is grounded in a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature, complemented by pilot studies conducted in the context of the Gargano region and a Cost-benefits analysis. These studies evaluate the integration of blockchain into local tourism and agri-food systems, emphasizing the enhancement of product traceability, operational efficiency, and consumer trust. The pilot initiatives serve as case studies for assessing the feasibility and scalability of blockchain technology in similar contexts, providing actionable insights into its practical applications and challenges. Key findings underline blockchain’s ability to bridge gaps in governance, market access, and resource management, offering innovative solutions to long-standing issues in rural and protected areas. However, the research also identifies critical barriers, such as infrastructural limitations, regulatory uncertainty, and digital literacy gaps, which must be addressed to unlock blockchain’s full potential. By synthesizing the researcher’s previously published works as both primary and co- author, alongside additional academic contributions, this thesis offers a holistic perspective on the opportunities and challenges of blockchain in sustainable development. The study contributes to the academic discourse by proposing a replicable framework for implementing blockchain solutions, aiming to inspire future research and guide policymakers, local stakeholders, and development practitioners in creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable systems.