From mass tourism to ecotourism : the case of the Balearic Islands, the Maltese Islands and the republic of Cyprus

Abstract

Many islands located in the Mediterranean Sea are major tourist destinations, particularly during the peak months of summer. Unfortunately, their tourism success often leads them to exceed their carrying capacity during peak tourist months resulting in an increase in environmental degradation and negative social impacts, which ultimately also affect the residents’ quality of life. Furthermore, the high pressure on the natural environment and the natural resources eventually result in the deterioration and loss of appeal of the same destinations.