Publication Date:
2021-05-19
Description:
Reef-based tourism is known to put environmental pressure on reefs
but its consequences on the ecological and economic sustainability of Marine
Protected Areas is unknown. Previous research suggests that, if reef conditions
decline, then tourism on a reef will also suffer, but is this always the case? This
study investigated the interaction between tourism impact, reef condition and visitor
satisfaction in Watamu Marine National Park, Kenya. A wide range of data were
collected, including benthic ecological variables, visitor counts, visitor behaviour
while visiting Watamu’s main reef and questionnaire responses regarding visitor
satisfaction. It was found that the reef visited by tourists manifested observable
damage and differences in ecological character, which potentially compromise
its ecological sustainability. Despite these observations, most tourists did not
notice the changes or were happy with their experience and hence the economic
sustainability of the park appears secure. However, the future trajectory of reef
condition and tourism on the reef is complex and difficult to predict, which could
lead to a trade-off between conservation and income-generating goals. A potential
solution is presented whereby a synergy between both goals is maintained.
Description:
Published
Keywords:
Coral reefs
;
Tourism
;
Conservation
;
Reef condition
Repository Name:
AquaDocs
Type:
Journal Contribution
,
Not Known
Format:
pp.57-70
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