Island tourism: sustainable perspectives

Island tourism, particularly on UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Macquarie Island, faces significant ecological, social, and economic challenges that require sustainable solutions. The study highlights the delicate balance between conservation efforts and tourism development, emphasizing the need for ecologically sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts such as invasive species (e.g., rabbits and rats) and sand mining. Social sustainability is also critical, with a focus on maintaining positive host-guest interactions while addressing cultural sensitivities and potential conflicts, such as those seen in Trinidad and Tobago or casino-driven tourism in St. Croix. Economically, the research underscores the importance of adaptive strategies to rejuvenate tourism markets, as demonstrated by cases from Mauritius and Okinawa, ensuring long-term viability without compromising ecological integrity or social cohesion. The study employs comparative analyses across diverse island settings to derive actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders.

Carlsen, J., & Butler, R. (Eds.). (2011). Island tourism: sustainable perspectives. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781845936792.0000