Island tourism carrying capacity in the UNESCO Site Laurisilva of Madeira

Tourism carrying capacity (TCC) in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laurisilva of Madeira is significantly below theoretical limits, yet trail access remains unrestricted despite concerns for natural resource management. This finding stems from a study that assessed TCC on two popular Rabaçal trails using a formulation integrating physical aspects and environmental correction factors. Despite UNESCO's recommendations for managing tourism impacts, the local population's perception of overuse suggests a critical gap between theoretical capacity and actual management practices.

Mota, L., Franco, M., & Santos, R. (2021). 255 Island tourism carrying capacity in the UNESCO Site Laurisilva of Madeira. Island Studies Journal, 16(2), 255–269. https://doi.org/10.24043/isj.143