Climate change : impacts on UK coastal tourism destinations reflections, responses and repercussions

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the impact that climate change has on tourism destinations using coastal UK tourism destinations as case scenarios. Four objectives were set in order to achieve this aim. (i) to review current reflections of climate change and its effects on tourism, (ii) to analyse perceived short term and long term threats of climate change at specific destinations, (iii) to asses responses to the effects of climate change and (iv) to evaluate future repercussions and priorities for such destinations.

Secondary and primary research sources were used in this study. Literature on climate change and tourism was reviewed as part of the secondary research. In-depth questionnaires were carried out as primary research for the study. A qualitative study of eight UK coastal tourism destinations using interviews from key professional personnel were carried out. The findings from the study evaluated responses, reactions and repercussions of climate change impact from key stakeholders. These, in turn, raised debate and dialogue assimilating and synthesizing future policy and management needs for such destinations.

The results from this study imply that the current perceptions of climate change facing UK coastal tourism destinations are mixed but with increasing, albeit, unclear concerns for the future. Results suggest a current malaise by key professional groups and local municipalities in responses, particularly to mitigate or adapt to climate change in the short term. Conclusions drawn inevitably suggest that the tourism industry at such destinations have not yet fully realised the degree of the impacts predicted and the implications for broader coastal zone management requirements. This is particularly pertinent for the long term and sustainable futures for coastal tourism destinations.