The dependence on tourism of small island states

Abstract

This dissertation attempts to determine the dependence of Small Island States on tourism and whether this is greater for such states when compared to other countries. The study also considers the impacts of tourism on the environment, on society and on the economy. Tourism is a very important industry for many Small Island States because they are endowed by geographic and climatic conditions which tend to be attractive to tourists. In addition, small states often find it difficult to diversify their economy into other forms of production. As a trend, tourism in these islands has been increasing steadily and the relevant authorities are investing heavily in the tourism sector to make good for threats to other sectors, notably agriculture. The responses to the questionnaire utilised in this dissertation show that, as expected, the dependence on tourism of Small Island States is greater than that of other countries. The main implications of this study are That tourism is an important income earner for small island states, and in additional generates considerable employment. That countries mainly consider the economic advantages of tourism, without factoring m the expenditures sustained for infrastructural development and maintenance, waste management,water resource management and energy provision. That tourism revenues might not be giving the expected returns because, apart from the expenditures just mentioned, there are negative side-effects including damage to the environment and threats to the fabric of society.