Interdependence between community participation and sustainable livelihood development: community perspectives on heritage conservation in Macao

ABSTRACT Extensive research has explored and emphasized the initiatives of both community participation and sustainable livelihood development in the contemporary world. However, studies on the interdependence of these two areas are limited, especially on the conditions and channels that facilitate community participation and the influence of community participation levels on different dimensions of sustainable livelihood. To explore the fundamental relationships among these growing important topics in the agenda of sustainable development goals, this paper proposes a conceptual framework linking all of the interrelated components by consolidating valuable insights from representatives of key community groups in the world heritage and tourism destination of Macao.