Application of the Delphi technique in tourism

Abstract

This paper reports the development and application of a methodology for the assessment of environmental impacts stemming from tourism projects. The Delphi technique is utilized as a potentially valuable tool for the identification and assessment of such impacts. The paper outlines the Delphi technique and its potential application for small scale projects where time and cost constraints preclude the use of direct, long term environmental monitoring. The findings of the application of the technique to a specific tourism project are presented. An assessment is then made of the methodology and its relevance to policy makers.