Journal of Social Studies and Education
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026)

The Role of Reputation Management in Mitigating Environmental Damage and Restoring Trust

Hilda Nurhidayati (Universitas Padjadjaran)
Susie Perbawasari (Universitas Padjadjaran)
Subekti Wirabhuana Priyadharma (Universitas Padjadjaran)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study aims to critically examine the ecological reputation crisis following a landslide disaster and land-clearing activities, focusing on the failure of defensive reputation management, power asymmetries, and the development of an alternative reputation management model. This study employed a critical qualitative case study design, with data collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings indicate that defensive corporate reputation strategies were ineffective in restoring legitimacy due to regulatory violations, polarized digital discourse, and distorted communication practices. Furthermore, instrumental communication that disregarded the four validity claims of communicative action theory intensified public distrust and widened the gap between corporate interests and community expectations. In response, the study formulates an Open Sustainable Tourism-Based Reputation Management Model that integrates discourse ethics, inclusive deliberation, regulatory compliance, and ecological accountability. The model implies that sustainable reputation management requires organizations to move beyond defensive communication toward transparent, participatory, and ethically grounded engagement. These findings contribute to crisis communication and sustainable tourism management by providing an alternative framework for reconciling tourism investment, corporate legitimacy, public trust, and ecological sustainability.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jsse

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Social Studies and Education is a peer-reviewed journal that advances social studies and education knowledge through original, high-quality research. It focuses on various themes, including pedagogical innovations, curriculum development, global citizenship, social and emotional learning, ...