The social, economic and environmental impacts of ecotourism : case studies of the St. Lucia area and the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg region in South Africa.
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Date
2005
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Abstract
The study focuses on two World Heritage sites in KwaZulu-Natal (uKhahlambaDrakensberg
Park and the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park). It sets out to critically
examine the social, economic and political aspects of natural heritage in the context of
sustainability and contestation. How these heritage landscapes are managed, and in
particular how decisions regarding its use and identity are taken, is the central issue under
investigation. In particular, this research examines the how an understanding of
stakeholder perceptions allows current management strategies to be assessed for their
effectiveness and relevance to the stakeholders in the regions and the development of
new management strategies which are relevant to stakeholder needs. In this regard, a
central concern is to identify and evaluate the degree of participation in resource
management, conservation and in direct ecotourism activities links to the heritage sites.
Stakeholders will vary in their ability to influence decision-makers and they are also
unlikely to gain or lose out equally from particular courses of action. These are all issues
which need full consideration in approaches to sustainable tourism management. This
study focused on the following stakeholders: neighbouring rural communities, tourists,
accommodation personnel and tour operators. Questionnaire surveys were administered
to each of the stakeholder groups identified above. Furthermore, participatory exercises
(venn diagrams, resource mapping and problem ranking exercises) were conducted with
focus groups. The study reveals heterogeneity within and between communities under
study in relation to socio-economic aspects and perceptions regarding the Parks and
levels of participation in activities linked to the Parks. In relation to heritage sites, the
questions of ownership, transparency and accountability are particularly important. The
study of ecotourism impacts and their management offers many opportunities to reflect
on the importance of sustainability. The impacts, as outlined by the findings of the study,
provides the opportunity for the implementation of biodiversity strategies linked to the
establishment of conservation priorities, mobilising and establishing partnerships,
identifying biodiversity threats and benefits, and providing incentives to conserve.
Description
Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2005.
Keywords
Theses--Environmental science.