The implications of climate change for tourism in small islands

Abstract

Many small islands, particularly those in the tropics, rely heavily upon natural resources of sea, sun and sand as the attractions upon which their tourism industries are based. However, global climate change, including ozone depletion, may modify these resources and how they are perceived by the potential clientele, leading to the need for such destinations to adjust to changing circumstances. It will be argued that, with respect to climate, the past may no longer be an adequate guide to the future and that climate change may be one factor among many worthy of inclusion in tourism planning and investment decisions. Given this context, the purpose of this chapter is: 1. To indicate the state of scientific knowledge concerning global climate change. 2. To examine the implications of such change for small island destinations. 3. To comment upon the possible consequences of ozone depletion for tourism. 4. To assess the extent to which tourists and tourism businesses can adapt to climate change.